Staff Highlight: Frida Olvera

A portrait photo of Frida Olvera

As intake manager, Frida Olvera manages a team of intake associates who often serve as a family’s first introduction to Skyland Trail. Intake associates answer questions about our treatment programs and help families take their first steps in the admissions process.

What inspired you to enter the mental health field?

Something that has always inspired me is being able to provide education and support to the Mexican/Hispanic community. Growing up, mental health was something that was not spoken about or even recognized, and as I got older, I realized the huge stigma it carries in the Mexican culture.

As I continue to develop skills and grow in the field, I want to be a resource and help advocate for those who feel unheard, misinformed, and/or ashamed. 

What is your favorite part of working at Skyland Trail?

Being part of an amazing team! Everyone at Skyland Trail is awesome, but the admissions team is the best (in my opinion). I feel a great amount of support from my colleagues and director.

For you, what’s the most rewarding part of being on the admissions team?

I know that seeking treatment is hard enough. Helping clients and their loved ones navigate through such a difficult time in their lives is extremely rewarding.

As someone who works with clients and families at the very beginning of their journey at Skyland Trail, what’s a common misconception that people may have about treatment that they are surprised to learn may not be true?

A common misconception that people have about treatment is that it is a “quick fix” or that it will “make you feel better immediately.”

People are at times unaware of the different levels of care that are offered and they are surprised to learn about the step-down process and continuum care that Skyland Trail provides clients.

When you speak to potential clients and families, what are some common goals or hopes for treatment?

A common hope/goal that families have for treatment is that their loved one has the opportunity to receive the best care possible. During the admission process, we try to inform families and potential clients that Skyland Trail tailors treatment with a mix of evidence-based therapies and a holistic approach to treat the individual as a whole and not just focus on parts of their mental health.

Who or what inspires you?

My mom inspires me to work hard and not take the opportunities that I have for granted. As a single parent who emigrated from Mexico without knowing the language, the culture, and the lifestyle, she worked very hard to provide for me and raise me to the best of her abilities.

What’s one way you practice self-care?

I love going on trails and hiking. I do not do it enough, but it is something I am hoping to incorporate more.

What’s your favorite cheerleading statement or mantra?

I’m not sure if this is a mantra or cheerleading statement, but I like to remind myself that, “It is going to be fine, and we are all doing the best that we can.”