Jocelyn C.-B., LCSW is a bilingual licensed clinical social worker and expert on the areas of mental health, child abuse and neglect, intimate partner violence, and significant trauma. She currently serves as the executive and clinical director of The Christi Center, a nonprofit organization that offers hope after the death of a loved one by providing support networks, community education, and therapeutic activities that are free, peer-based, and ongoing. By combining her expertise in mental health with her passion for community, Jocelyn is dedicated to helping people connect with their emotions by actively listening to their stories. Jocelyn first started working at The Christi Center in 2017 as a bilingual services coordinator, since then she has held multiple roles including program manager and director of programs and clinical services. In 2024, she was promoted to executive and clinical director. In this role, Jocelyn ensures that the organization continues to serve the Austinites, as it did when it was first founded in 1987, while evolving with the needs of the community. She also oversees the operations side of the organization, ensuring that it honors its past while moving into
the future. Prior to working at The Christi Center, Jocelyn served as a bilingual therapist for Blue Note Psychotherapy, a high-quality, specialized therapy consultancy of engaged and compassionate
therapists. She was also a bilingual therapist for The Austin Center for Grief and Loss, an organization offering therapy resources and support for those grieving the death of a loved one from illness, accident, suicide, or violence; divorce or separation. In addition, she served as a clinical intake specialist for the Center of Child Protection, which aims to reduce trauma for children during the investigation and prosecution of crimes against children.
Jocelyn is deeply committed to advancing her industry. She volunteers as a therapist with the Therapy for Therapists Collective, a network that offers pro bono psychotherapy, peer supervision,
support groups, and other resources specifically for therapists. Additionally, she is a member of the National Alliance for Children’s Grief (NACG), an organization that raises awareness about the needs of grieving children and teens and provides education and resources for their supporters. Jocelyn has also been a member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), the world’s largest
professional organization for social workers, which focuses on professional development, maintaining standards, and advocating for sound social policies. She is also connected with the
University of Texas at Austin’s Social Work Alumni Network. She holds a Master of Science in Social Work from the School of Social Work and a Bachelor of Arts
from The University of Texas at Austin. In her spare time, she enjoys making and drinking lots of coffee and spending time with her husband, Bobby, son Noah, and their pets, Violet and Nacho.
Bio to come!
I was first introduced to the Christi Center in 1990 after the murder of my brother. I have had a lifetime relationship with this organization. Along with my 4 boys, my parents also became very involved with the center. We all took advantage of the various support groups that were offered. The organization literally saved our lives and Susan and Don become such wonderful friends.
I learned everything I could about the grief journey by mentoring under Susan and Don. I came in as a volunteer and eventually was fortunate to come aboard on the staff. That was over 12 years ago and I have such gratitude for walking through the door of the wonderful place. Now I am able to give back to others what I received.
My interest in grief and loss began in 1997, when a tragic accident claimed the love of my life, and catapulted me into a humbling journey of healing. An intern counselor at the time, I was astounded to realized our culture’s lack of understanding of grief, and as I committed myself to my own personal growth, my thirst for knowledge led me into professional realms as well. After graduating with my Master’s in Counseling from The University of Denver in 1999, I began a holistic private practice in Colorado devoted exclusively to grief, and from that foundation, have led support groups for children, for surviving family members at Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and have run several hospice bereavement programs.
After relocating back to my native Texas, I was lucky enough to find the Christi Center, and am excited to contribute my blend of personal and professional experience as I support the resiliency of the human spirit in the face of loss. Outside of work, I enjoy music, meditation, and spending time outside with my super-duper son, who reminds me daily to stay present to the magic and wonder of life.
Rachel Saffer, LCSW-S, is a therapist and clinical supervisor specializing in grief and loss in children and adolescents. She supports young clients and their families as they navigate bereavement, trauma, life transitions, and complicated grief. Rachel integrates developmentally appropriate, trauma-informed, and attachment-based approaches to create a safe space for expression and healing. She also provides supervision and consultation to fellow therapists, equipping clinicians with practical tools for working with grieving youth. Rachel is passionate about helping children and teens build resilience, process loss in healthy ways, and move forward with strengthened coping skills and meaningful connections.
I’ve lived in Austin for 24 years and found deep fulfillment working in the nonprofit community. My experience spans development, marketing, and outreach, where I’ve helped organizations strengthen donor relationships, expand visibility, and build sustainable community partnerships. I’m passionate about connecting people and resources to causes that promote healing, equity, and human connection. My work is guided by compassion, creativity, and a belief in the power of local impact. Austin’s spirit of service inspires me to continue supporting meaningful initiatives that bring hope and transformation to individuals and families throughout Central Texas.
Howdy! I’m Heather, an Austin native and passionate advocate in the realm of grief and loss. My journey in this field began through my own profound experience of losing my daughter to brain cancer at the age of 9. This personal journey ignited my commitment to supporting others navigating similar paths.
I graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a BA in Psychology in 2015 and earned a Master’s in Social Work in 2022. Currently, I am pursuing a PhD in General Psychology at Liberty University and am in the process of completing my clinical license to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). My professional journey has led me to The Christi Center, where I serve as the Internship Manager. This role allows me to mentor and guide interns, helping them cultivate their skills to make a significant impact in the world.
In addition to my work at The Christi Center, I’ve had the privilege of serving various underserved populations, including inmates at the Travis County Correctional Complex. Here, I provided health, wellness, and vocational psychoeducation. I also conduct mental health assessments at the Travis County Sheriff’s Office. My extensive background includes grief and loss counseling for children, teens, and adults, as well as expertise in mental health and substance abuse.
Family is my cornerstone. I am blessed with a supportive husband and a daughter who bring immense joy to my life, alongside my three energetic poodles—Dexter, Eddie, and Georgie.
Our Board
…
Kathleen and her husband Bob lost their daughter, Shannon, in 1998. They were blessed to discover the Christi Center soon afterwards.
Kathy has served on the Board of Directors for the Christi Center, assisted in the development of several strategic plans, and is the current Chair of the Governance Committee.
Kathy is also a facilitator, trainer, consultant, and curriculum developer. She has conducted workshops in United States, Egypt, Guam, Korea, Spain, Germany, Holland, Canada, Malawi, Thailand, Jamaica, Japan, and Belgium.
Kathy has served on several other nonprofit boards and committees.
Kathy has an undergraduate degree from the University of Maryland and a graduate degree from the University of Oklahoma.
Currently serves as the Christi Center Board Treasurer
Sheridan is a solution-driven finance leader with more than 20 years of experience in accounting and team leadership, including HR and full-cycle finance operations. A licensed CPA, she has a strong track record of driving growth and efficiency in small to mid-sized businesses in Austin. Sheridan was introduced to The Christi Center in 2023 and proudly joined the Board as Treasurer in early 2024.
A native Austinite, Sheridan enjoys discovering new restaurants and immersing herself in the city’s vibrant arts scene—whether it’s comedy, live music, dance performances, or local exhibitions. When she’s not out and about, she’s likely relaxing with her two dogs or planning her next travel adventure—when time and budget align.
Julio Mendoza-Quiroz is the Immediate Past President and Secretary of the Board of Directors for the Christi Center. He is a tax lawyer with the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.
He joined the board in 2021 as part of the governance committee. As part of the committee, he helped update various governing documents and submit them to the board for approval. He has previously served as Vice-President of the Board. He has served as the president since January 2024. He is honored to serve on the board to ensure that no one grieves alone in the Austin community.
He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of New Mexico and a Juris Doctor from Texas Tech University School of Law. He grew up in Wimberley, Texas. He enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and three daughters.
More to come!
George Drazic is Owner and President of Efficient AC, Electric & Plumbing, a mechanical, electrical
and plumbing contracting firm located in Austin, Texas. The Company handles complex construction,
service, and fabrication for customers in Texas.
George has over thirty years of ownership, executive management, sales, engineering, packaging, logistics, operations and supply chain experience. He has served in senior management roles in both the
semiconductor and pharmaceuticals manufacturing industries, and his experience includes work in Fortune Fortune 500 companies. He has also successfully owned and operated two businesses, a
construction design and management company and his current venture, Efficient.
George earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, with high honors, and a Master of Business Administration degree, with highest honors, both from the from the University of Texas at
Austin. He holds Master Texas State licenses for HVAC and Refrigeration. George has served as both Board Member and President of his local United Way chapter, and as a Board Member for Junior Achievement and Virginia College. In addition, he has been a Capital-Area Food Drive Leader in Austin. He is currently serving on the boards of Young Presidents Organization (YPO),
Skillpoint Alliance and The Christi Center.
George lives in Austin/Westlake Hills with his wife, Molly, a registered Paramedic and Nurse, and their adult living sons, Alexander, a Masters Degree Engineer, Evan, a Masters Student Architect, when they
are in town. George also remembers the son who passed before he was able to attend college, Miles.
Currently serves as a Board Member!
More to come!
Currently serves as a Christi Center Board Member
More to come!
Debby is one of our new board members of The Christi Center. She attended services
at the Christi Center after the death of her husband, Garry in 2006. Since then she has
shared the story of the Christi Center and her own grief to help others. She has been an
active member of the Development Committee since 2012, with a commitment to the
Christi Center’s mission of “No one needs to grieve alone.” She has a background in
education, and a heart to help others who suffer with the pain of grief. Debby leverages
her grief experiences to help guide strategic decisions and support impactful programs
which will help The Christi Center grow and serve in the Central Texas Area. She is
honored to contribute to creating positive change alongside fellow board members.
Currently serves as a Christi Center Board Member
More to come!
Currently serves as a Christi Center Board Member
More to come!
In 1985, Don and Susan’s 20-year old daughter, Christi, was killed by a drunk driver. Don, Susan, and their son, Sean, found that there was little affordable support available to help them through their agonizing and ongoing grief. They quickly realized that there were many others who also needed help, and through much hard work and dedication, in 1987, they opened the Christi Center, located at 2306 Hancock Drive. This warm and nurturing renovated house is a place where people suffering from the loss of a loved one may attend free meetings with others who have lost a family member. This group setting, in combination with staff counselors and volunteers, provides an effective outlet for grief management for children, adults, and families of all backgrounds.
