biographies

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Maria specializes in issues affecting the Latino community and she offers services in English and Spanish. In addition, she provides evidenced based practices to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance abuse, family conflict, anger management and PTSD.  Maria is acutely aware of the unique needs of the Hispanic population, which has driven her to found Brazos Extendidos, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering Hispanics in Colorado Springs and the surrounding areas. Through Brazos Extendidos, Maria works to address the specific challenges faced by the Latino community, providing resources, support, and culturally sensitive services to help them thrive. Her commitment to meeting the needs of this population is a testament to her dedication to her community and her mission to make a positive impact on the lives of those she serves.

Maria started her professional career in San Antonio Texas providing services to individuals across the lifespan. Professionally, Maria has served individuals and families in Texas, Florida and Colorado. Maria holds a Master’s in Counseling and a Master’s in Business Administration.  Maria has been Licensed Professional Counselor since 2001 and is a Licensed Addiction Counselor which allows her to provide services to individuals struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues.

Mr. Berger joined the board of directors for Brazos Extendidos in 2024.  Since 2007, he has worked for the Department of the Air Force at Schriever SFB and Peterson SFB in Colorado.  Currently, he is serving as the technical director for one of the U.S. Space Force’s test and evaluation squadrons.  In that role, he is responsible for ensuring new space systems meet the U.S.’s national defense needs.  Jeff enlisted in the USAF in 1984, commissioned in 1985 and retired after a distinguished 22 years of service. 

In the late 1980s, Jeff was the vice president of the locally operated, Terros Hotline, a round-the-clock, all-volunteer, suicide prevention and crisis intervention hotline, serving the Colorado Springs community. 

Jeff has a ME in Mechanical Engineering from Colorado State University, a MS in Space Operations from the Air Force Institute of Technology, and a BS in Aerospace Engineering from Pennsylvania State University.

Jeff’s professional interests include applications for artificial intelligence, multicriteria decision making, and process optimization. He spends his free time with family, traveling, and doing both if possible.

Pedro Francisco Riddell's life story is a testament to resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to bettering himself and his community. Born in Mexico, Pedro's early years were marked by instability and hardship. Raised in the United States, he faced the grueling challenges of a rough childhood, experiencing homelessness multiple times. These adversities, rather than breaking his spirit, ignited a fierce drive within him to pursue education as a pathway to a better life.

Despite the obstacles, Pedro's academic journey is nothing short of extraordinary. He began his higher education at Mendocino College, where he earned an impressive nine associate degrees. This foundational education was a springboard that launched him into prestigious universities and rigorous programs. Pedro went on to achieve a dual degree from UCLA in Gender Studies and LGBTQ Studies, fields that resonate deeply with his personal experiences and advocacy interests.

Determined to further his impact, Pedro pursued a Master's of Social Work from the University of Southern California. His commitment to understanding and addressing complex social issues led him to earn a Doctorate in Human Services from Walden University. Not one to rest on his laurels, Pedro is currently working on a Doctoral program in Social Work at Capella University, continuously expanding his expertise and capacity to effect change.

As a bilingual individual, with Spanish as his primary language and English as his second, Pedro's multicultural background enriches his professional practice. His decision to become a therapist was driven by a profound need he observed in his community and his own desire to process his experiences critically. Recognizing that personal understanding is fundamental to effective leadership and support, Pedro has dedicated himself to helping others navigate their own challenges.

Pedro's professional focus is both broad and deeply impactful. He specializes in working with children, youth, and families, addressing issues such as domestic violence, immigration evaluations, and substance abuse. His approach is holistic, aiming to help individuals become the best version of themselves. Through his work, Pedro provides a vital support system for those in need, empowering them to overcome their struggles and achieve their potential.

Pedro Francisco Riddell's story is one of transformation and empowerment. From the challenges of his youth to his impressive academic achievements and his compassionate work as a therapist, Pedro exemplifies the strength and resilience of the human spirit. His dedication to his community and his commitment to personal and professional growth make him a beacon of hope and a powerful advocate for change.