Adam Pelner is an Associate Clinical Social Worker. Born and raised in Queens, New York, he received his BA in Economics, Policy Studies and Psychology at Syracuse University and moved to Los Angeles where he received his MSW at UCLA. During his time at UCLA, he worked to understand how various systems, particularly those that are inequitable, play a role in an individual’s mental health. Part of Adam’s focus as a social worker is understanding mental health and well being from a broader context that incorporates cultural, political, racial and socioeconomic factors.

Before attending UCLA, Adam worked at a Residential Treatment Center conducting Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for those struggling with OCD and related disorders. Adam has several years of experience in utilizing evidence based practices and learning about those struggling with OCD and related disorders through both research and practice. Adam has also received training in third wave behavioral therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and is interested in exploring how various psychological processes such as language, metacognition and narrative play a role in a person’s quality of life. Adam’s foundation lies in implementing both acceptance and change strategies to address problematic behaviors that adversely impact quality of life.

Adam also has experience working with homeless populations on Skid Row and with low income families at LA’s Department of Mental Health. Drawing from a multidisciplinary approach, he believes in the power of psycho-education and providing individuals with skills that will help them create long lasting change.  Above all, he believes in advocating for each individual and empowering those who might have lost hope in themselves.