Staff
Social Wellness and Behavioral Support Team:
The Office of Social Wellness & Behavioral Support
(909) 652-6338
Denise Padilla, LCSW
Director of Social Wellness and Behavioral Support
Denise Padilla was the Student Wellness Manager at Chaffey College prior to transitioning into the Director role. She brings over 15 years of clinical and leadership experience to her work, with a strong focus on expanding access to mental health services in community college systems. She has a commitment to supporting student mental health through inclusive, community-centered approaches. Her dedication to mental health equity is rooted in the belief that education and support can empower individuals to lead more fulfilling lives. Denise’s passion for social justice was shaped during her training at the University of Southern California and continues to guide her leadership style and approach to care. She has worked across diverse settings including education, healthcare, and both inpatient and outpatient mental health.
Jimmy Pineda, MSW, LCSW, PPSC
Licenses Mental Health Clinician
Jimmy Pineda is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who is passionate about supporting students in their personal growth, emotional well-being, and academic success. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Psychological Sciences from California State University San Marcos and his Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California, where he specialized in School Social Work and earned his Pupil Personnel Services Credential (PPSC). Jimmy has experience working with adolescents, young adults, and families navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, family conflict, and major life transitions. His approach is compassionate, collaborative, and student-centered, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), trauma-informed care, and person-centered therapy. He strives to create a safe and supportive environment where students feel heard, valued, and empowered to explore their strengths, build resilience, and develop tools to navigate both academic and personal challenges with confidence.
Kristen Hackett, MS, APCC
Associate Level Crisis Social Worker
Kristen is a registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor with a Master of
Science in Counseling from Loma Linda University. Her professional background includes
experience in school based counseling and community mental health settings. She has
provided field based crisis intervention services, as well as, supported children,
adolescents, couples, and families. She looks forward to collaborating with the Chaffey
College community and contributing to the students wellbeing in a welcoming, inclusive
campus environment. Outside the office, Kristen’s hobbies include reading biographies,
self-help, and fiction books. She also prefers listening to podcasts over music.
Administrative Support Staff:
Andrew Rios
Program Assistant, Student Support Services
Veronica Rios
Administrative Assistant II, Student Support Services
Graduate Level Interns:
Jesse Zamudio | MTWTH | MSW Intern
Saira Murillo | TWTH | MSW Intern
Victor Sanchez | MWF | MSW Intern
Services Offered:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Psychoeducational Workshops
- Mental Health Assessments
- Treatment Planning
- Risk Assessments (C-SSRS)
- Safety Planning (Stanley-Brown Safety Plan)
Self-Referral Via Chaffey Connects, click on Mental Health Need box, complete form
Chaffey Connects | Student Support Services | Chaffey College
