Manuel Ortega, LCSW
(he/him)
About Me
I believe healing is about more than reducing symptoms. It is about helping people reconnect with the parts of themselves that trauma, loss, substance use, and difficult life experiences may have pushed aside. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDR therapist, I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore painful experiences, recognize their strengths, and move toward a life that feels more authentic and meaningful.
My approach is compassionate, direct, and collaborative. I believe there is good in every person, even when it has become difficult for them to see it in themselves. I work with individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, substance use, relationship difficulties, and major life transitions. I am especially passionate about helping people process trauma, break long standing patterns, and find their way back to their true selves.
Education & Experience
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience providing trauma-informed mental health and substance use treatment in outpatient, intensive outpatient, treatment-court, and co-occurring treatment settings. I earned my Master of Social Work from Western New Mexico University (WNMU) in 2019 and my Bachelor of Social Work from WNMU in 2017.
I have completed EMDR training and advanced professional development related to trauma, co-occurring disorders, substance use, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and clinical supervision. My professional experience includes individual, group, family, and couples counseling, as well as clinical assessment, treatment planning, crisis intervention, program development, and staff supervision.
My EMDR experience includes working with critical incidents and utilizing the Recent Traumatic Episode Protocol with veterans, first responders, witnesses to traumatic events or critical incidents, and individuals who have experienced physical attacks and injuries. This work has included supporting individuals in processing the immediate and ongoing effects of frightening, violent, and potentially life-threatening experiences.
In addition to providing direct clinical services, I have served as a Clinical Director and as an adjunct instructor in the Master of Social Work program at WNMU. These roles have allowed me to support developing clinicians, strengthen trauma-informed clinical practices, and help organizations provide ethical, effective, and person-centered care.
Professional & Volunteer Affiliations
• EMDR International Association (EMDRIA), Certified EMDR Therapist
• Recovery Management Center, Clinical Director, 2023-present; Therapist, 2016-present
• Western New Mexico University, Master of Social Work Program, Adjunct Instructor, 2021-present
• Sexual Assault Support Services (SASS), Volunteer, 2009–2011
• Ambercare Hospice, Volunteer, 2014-2015
Population Served
- Adolescents (13-17)
- Adults
- Seniors
