At Cottonwood Psychology, our team is made up of experienced psychology professionals. Our aim is to make psychology accessible to regular people by showing how psychology affects us in our everyday life. Meet our team members below.
Our Authors & Editors
Aloha Mae S. Tolentino, BA Psychology, RPm, CHRA
I am Aloha Mae S. Tolentino, 25 years old, and a graduate of Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Notre Dame of Dadiangas University. I am a licensed Psychometrician and a Certified Human Resource Associate.
My work experience includes serving as a Supervisor for Customer Relations Services (CRS) in a private company in my hometown for one year. After that, I worked as a Senior High School faculty member under the Social Sciences Department for almost two years before transferring to the College Guidance and Testing Center as a Guidance Advocate.
My journey in writing began in elementary school, where I joined various journalism competitions. While searching for my niche, I explored different fields such as feature writing and photojournalism. In high school, I ventured into news writing and radio broadcasting, which later sparked my deeper interest in creative writing. I eventually published blog articles for leisure and gained experience working remotely on SEO optimization.
These experiences have honed my creativity, critical thinking, resourcefulness, and attention to detail. They have also opened doors to more opportunities, allowing me to continuously improve my skills and grow both personally and professionally.
Arriane Jogno, BA Psychology, CHRA
I have a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and I'm ready to use my strong skills in organizing and working
with people to help in many different work areas. I'm truly committed to helping any organization succeed
and excited to apply my abilities in a professional setting.
EXPERIENCE
Human Resource Intern – Calapan City Hall
Feb – Mar 2025
During my HR internship, I took on various tasks that helped me develop strong administrative and
interpersonal skills:
- Provided direct support during employee events. I acted as an usherette during The
Employee's Night, ensuring guests felt welcomed and events ran smoothly. This involved direct
interaction and support, similar to helping clients. - Offered front desk assistance. I was involved in handling inquiries and providing support to
employees and visitors, which honed my customer service abilities. - Maintained organized records for HR efficiency. I alphabetically sorted employee leave cards,
ensuring easy retrieval and accurate record-keeping. - Managed and organized crucial financial documents. I meticulously sorted employees'
Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth from the main office and various city locations,
demonstrating my attention to detail and ability to handle sensitive information.
Special Needs Education Intern – Oriental Mindoro National High School
Mar – Apr 2025
During my internship in special needs education, I undertook various responsibilities that enhanced my
organizational and support skills.
- Assisted with academic assessments. I provided support in scoring braille examinations and
grading student assessments, demonstrating meticulous attention to detail and accurate data
handling. - Developed and facilitated educational activities. I prepared engaging games and activities for
students, showcasing my ability to plan, organize, and implement supportive learning environments. - Provided essential logistical support. My responsibilities included preparing food and beverages
for students, highlighting my commitment to ensuring their comfort and well-being. - Supported ceremonial events. I assisted during student recognition ceremonies, contributing to
the successful execution of important events. - Engaged in professional development. I actively studied and practiced the fundamentals of sign
language, underscoring my dedication to continuous learning and effective communication.
EDUCATION
Mindoro State University Jun 2025
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
CERTIFICATION
Certified Human Resource Associate (CHRA)TM Jan 2025
Certification Number: CHRA055-08552025
LANGUAGES
English Filipino Sign Language
Nico Jay W. Dauz, BS Psychology, CHRA
I'm Nico Jay W. Dauz, a 22-year-old Psychology graduate from Cavite City, Philippines. I earned my degree from Cavite State University – Silang Campus, located in Silang, Cavite, Philippines, where I completed the Bachelor of Science in Psychology program. I am a solo child and grew up in a broken family.
During my studies, I also served in the Philippine Army for over three years. I worked as an administrative assistant, helping manage the ROTC Program for college and supporting reservist personnel throughout the province of Cavite. In addition to my duties, I assisted with personnel documentation, data management, morale monitoring, and other HR functions in the support system of operations, which deepened my understanding of leadership, discipline, and service.
My passion for writing began as a personal journey and evolved into a mission to help others understand themselves. I am now writing about mental health, lifestyle, and personal development, and other life advice that aims to turn complex ideas into relatable and helpful content. I've contributed to blogs, newsletters, and online platforms, always to make readers feel informed, seen, and supported. I also volunteered in a relief program operation, where we proceeded to Marinduque and Tarlac, providing psychological first aid to people affected by the typhoon's damage, alongside the assistance from the Philippine Army's military personnel.
I hold a Certified Human Resource Associate (CHRA) certification and also passed the Career Service Professional - Professional Level in the Philippines.
My long-term goal is to become a military psychologist, combining my academic background, military experience, and the passion for mental health to support others in meaningful ways.
Writing for me is more than a skill; it's my way of serving in a civilian capacity and giving morale boosts to the quiet challenges that people face. Through my words, hoping to offer strength, and understanding to them.
Stephanie Jimenez, BA Psychology, CHRA
I am Stephanie Jimenez, from Capas, Tarlac, a graduate with a bachelor’s
degree in Psychology in Tarlac State University, a Certified Human
Resource Associate, an AFPSAT (Philippine Air Force Passer),
NAPOLCOM Passer, a Safety Officer II, and a Research-enthusiast.
Aside from being career-driven, I was once known in the fields of Esports Community (Mobile
Legends: Bang Bang) as an EXP Laner and a Captain during my College days. In relation to this,
becoming a passionate Psych-major means embodying the practices and knowledge you had
gained. That is why I balanced my career and passion into an equilibrial-state in order to execute
the sublimation defense mechanism—a mature and healthy means of coping strategy. Stress plays,
I play harder!
EDUCATION & AWARDS/CERTIFICATIONS
Tarlac State University Tarlac City, Tarlac
BA in Psychology Graduation Date: July 2023
- CHRA Passer (Certified Human Resource Associate, May 2024), AFPSAT
(Philippine Air Force Passer) NAPOLCOM Passer, Academic Awardee, Dean's
Lister, Outstanding Psychological Research, Colloquium Research Participant,
Top 3 Best Research in Psychology, University Wide Gender Sensitive Research,
Graphic Designing Certification, Safety Officer II
College of the Holy Spirit of Tarlac San Sebastian, Tarlac
City
Senior High School (Humanities and Social Sciences) Graduation Date: March
2019
WORK EXPERIENCE
Sta. Clara International Corporation Mandaluyong City
Design and Build of UPS Express Air Cargo Services Hub May – September 2025
HR Assistant / Site Management Generalist (Project-Based)
- Assists in job posting, resume screening, and interview coordination.
- Maintains up-to-date personnel records (electronic and paper-based).
- Ensures all HR documentation complies with legal and company requirements.
- Assists in coordinating training programs or workshops for project staff.
- Tracks employee participation and progress in training sessions.
- Assists in preparing performance evaluation schedules and documentation.
- Ensure HR policies and procedures are adhered to, particularly those that apply to the
project. - Helps ensure the project’s compliance with labor laws and industry regulations.
- Handles day-to-day HR administrative tasks, including scheduling meetings, responding
to employee inquiries, and managing HR databases. - Coordinates HR-related communication within the project team.
- Assists in addressing employee queries and concerns related to HR policies and practices.
- Helps mediate minor employee disputes or escalate issues to senior HR staff as needed.
- Commits to adhere to the Integrated Management System (IMS) Compliance and
Standards. - Performs other related job/duties as may be assigned by the management from time to
time.
Fontana Casino Clark, Pampanga
CLARK RESORT & TRAVEL AMUSEMENT CORPORATION August 2024 – November 2024
HR Clerk
- Assisted applicants and employees with answer to general questions covering topics such
as employment opportunities, examination procedures, insurance other employee
concerns. - Received employment applications and reviewed applications for completeness.
- Recorded, maintained, and updated personnel records.
- Updated records of infractions of employees.
- Assisted and checked all staff in their SSS, PhilHealth, PAG-IBG, and BIR update records.
- Updated all MES and ID NOW information.
- Prepared report of newly hired employee, change in their status/address and salary to SSS,
PhilHealth, PAG-IBIG, and BIR. - Encoded overtime, change shift/day off, NSI/NSO, Sick Leave, Vacation leave and other
related-matters regarding payroll for all Casino employees. - Prepares the following:
a) Uploaded semi-monthly schedules of all departments.
b) Adjusted all personnel with no swiped in and out.
c) Determined leave credits and remaining credits on leave applications. - Monitored Shuttle Collection, focal person for transportation, and villa checking.
- Completed termination and offboarding processes to the resigned and terminated employees.
- Prepared monthly and quarterly reports.
Employee Relations:
- Created, implemented, and managed on-boarding plans;
- Conducted regular audit of 201 files, maintenance forms, checklist, and monitoring;
- Prepared Cash Advance;
- Ensured that probation for new regular staffs is assessed properly on time;
- Supported on maintaining personnel files and documentation of employees;
- Worked constructively with colleagues in other departments and teams to promote the
objectives of the organization Selection Criteria; - Updated internal databases with new hires’ data (e.g., contact information and bank accounts)
- Properly handled complaints and grievance procedures;
- Prepared job descriptions, job analysis, job evaluations, job classifications and make
recommendation;
Clerical
- Assisted with daily operations of the HR functions and duties;
- Provided clerical and administrative support to Human Resources executives;
- Compiled and updated employee records;
- Processed documentations and prepared reports relating to personnel activities (staffing,
recruitment, training, grievances, performance evaluations etc.); - Coordinated HR projcts (meetings, trainings, surveys, etc.,) and take minutes;
- Assisted recruiters to source candidates, published, and updated job ads on career pages;
- Distributed physical and digital training material
- Stored, copied, and scanned company policies
- Prepared updated List of Casino Personnel Mal/Departmental Schedule, Birthday Celebrants’
- Monitored updating of shuttle availment and trip tickets.
- Maintained digital and electronic records of employees (ID printing for probationary and
regular employees);
Recruitment
- Assisted the company in attracting potential candidates by promoting job opportunities through
social media platforms; - Reviewed resumes, curriculum vitae, cover letters, to determine applicant’s qualifications;
- Interviewed and screened applicants to determine their qualifications for a certain position;
- Resolved applicants concerns or issues by providing with information in regard to the hiring
process or via referrals; - Conducted reference checks on candidates to ensure that they have good ethics and experience
for the position they are applying for; - Participated in hiring decisions of with HR Manager.
- Maintained contact with candidates throughout the hiring process.
- Schedules interview for the potential candidates.
- Prepared the induction frameworks with the coordination of the departments to provide full
induction to the new staff; - Presented the via verbal and digital copy of the job offer to the qualified candidate; hence,
notified the unsuccessful candidate. - Apprised the newly hired employee to ensure and complete their pre-employment
requirements. - Provided support on annual HR audit, finance team, and admin when required.
Mabalacat City College – OVPGROW (Career Placement)
Global Relations, Opportunities, and Workforce Development Mabalacat City,
Pampanga
College and Career Readiness Coordinator January 2024 - April
2024
- Developed ladderized College and Career Readiness (CCR) programs that prepare job-
ready students. - Prepared and submitted an annual Workforce Readiness Program Plan for each academic
year. - Collaborated with businesses, industries, and other stakeholders to assess needs and
create customized relevant training. - Conducted initial placement interviews and acts as mentor and advisor to students
transitioning from campus life to work. - Conducted meetings with the Institute Deans and Field of Study Heads for curriculum
enhancement in relation to the demands of industries. - Obtained feedback and evaluation from the industries in relation to the performance of
MCC graduates. - Planned job skills training assessment instruments and instructional materials for
students. - Managed and supported various employment opportunities for MCC graduates.
- Conducted regular Career Fairs.
- Assisted students in exploring potential employment opportunities.
- Built strong relationships with industries to market MCC students and graduates for
employment opportunities. - Monitored the effectiveness and quality standards of the College's On-the-Job training
and Internship programs. - Organized industry visits and immersions.
- Recognized partner industries that support the College's vision, mission, and goals.
- Participated in the regular meetings of company associations and business sectors.
- Maintained effective communication with administration, faculty, and Staff
- Submitted regular accomplishment reports to the Assistant Vice President for
Workforce Development. - Attended all office, institutional, and other pertinent meetings.
- Attended necessary seminars related to Career Placement and enriching knowledge in
human resource and job assistance. - Assumed the responsibilities of the AVP for Workforce Development as needed.
- Performed miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
- Performed and assist Resuming Coaching for Students.
- Performed Resume Coaching with the Graduating students before their Mock Interview.
- Oriented the graduating students in the Pre-Mock interview and Career Fair.
Tarlac State University – RERC
(Research and Review Ethics Committee) Tarlac City, Tarlac
Student Intern February 2023- April 2023
- Assigned to the protocols in terms of reviewing the submitted researches neither to
reject nor to accept as following the University’s standards in issuing clearances. - Discerning of applications in issuing of clearances, process of filing
submission-resubmission, recommendations, endorsement forms and
evaluation results. - Encoding and gathering sensitive or personal information as their recorded data in
the RERC Office - Assigned to benchmarking and endorsement of the updated 2023 Standard Operating
Procedure in the University (in reference to 2020 Guideline PHREB RERC;
Philippine Health Research Ethics Board accreditation). - Assigned to review and revise the SOP forms of the RERC.
- Has a 2-week-practice-teaching in Understanding the Self and Cognitive
Psychology classes. - Trained to spectate and conduct Psychological Reports and Assessment; test results.
- Acting-clerk of the office when the immediate supervisor is absent.
Tarlac State University – Main Library Tarlac City, Tarlac
Student Assistant (Librarian) January 2020-February 2020
- Organized, provided, and assisted students with the resources in the library such as;
printed materials, soft copies or e-learning materials, and computer library. - Ensured library resources are in accessible way or presented in an organized man.
- Dealt with inquiries of the students regarding reference work, orienting the students
regarding the policies of borrowing library resources, copyrights, and research materials. - Ensure the on the desk job to the student’s id number matches their respective necessities.
City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) – Tarlac City Tarlac City, Tarlac
Student Immersionist January 2019-February
2019
- Provided real time assistance to clients seeking help from the government, making
sure to have the necessary requirements needed depending on the type of assistance
asked. - Interviewed and assessed clients and redirecting them to offices based on their concern.
- Assisted social workers conducting community services and programs offered by
the city and government. - Conducted monthly surveys to the scholars of the city government as per their
general weighted average are in monitor, their family’s financial state, and their
performance in class. - Encoded files and assisting social workers in creating social case studies.
- Trained to work on creating memorandum or requests to the Office of the Mayor
in regard to: Scholarships, Requests of data sheet, distribution of funds.
AFFILIATIONS
- Human Resource Educators' Association of the Philippines, Inc. (HREAP) – May
2024 - present - (Sta, Clara International Corporation) Emergency Response Team (Search and
Rescue Team) May – September 2025 - Bountee Esports PH (Malaysian-based Management) August 2023 – February
2024 - Philippine National Esports League (Lakambini) 2022 – March 2024
- AcadArena (Esports) – 2021-2022
Karls Benitez, BS Psychology
EDUCATION
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
National Teachers College
08/2022-08/2025 - STEM STRAND
AMA Paranaque Campus
01/2017-01/2019.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Internship - Psychology Department
Ippokratis Diagnostic Services Center Inc.
03/2025-05/2025
Achievements/Tasks
- Assisted in identifying seafarers who were fit for sea duties through the administration of standardized psychological assessments.
- Successfully administered over 700 psychological tests, including PNLT-A, PNLT-B, and the Basic Personality Inventory, ensuring adherence to testing protocols and accuracy in documentation.
- Prepared test materials, guided candidates through the procedures, and recorded results for further clinical evaluation and compliance processing.
- Updated and maintained seafarer profiles in MARINO and MISMO systems, ensuring that only qualified individuals were certified based on test outcomes.
- Organized and streamlined patient records, both physical and digital, improving retrieval time and supporting the center's audit readiness and internal reporting needs.
- Contributed to a more efficient testing and documentation process, helping the center serve more clients while maintaining high standards of accuracy, confidentiality, and professionalism.
Talent Sourcing Assistant
Freelance
01/2023-12/2024
Achievements/Tasks
- Identifying top-notch candidates for various niche and difficult to fill tech positions in Australia within the DevOps, QA, Data, SRE, and software engineering verticals.
- Utilizing LinkedIn recruiter and Artstation to find candidates for gaming, VFX, and animation industry and add them into our ATS (JobAdder).
- Screen and shortlist candidates based on client requirements, skills, and experience. Build and maintain a strong pipeline of qualified candidates by sourcing and nurturing passive candidates.
- Collaborate closely with the talent sourcing team to create effective sourcing strategies and gather feedback.
- Sourced over 300 profiles by December 2024 with a 70% pre-screen to fit conversion.
- Updates, manages, and maintains our ATS (Jobadder), making sure accuracy and up- to-date details of candidates.
Rodgeene Gabrielle A. Somorostro, BA Psychology, RPm
Detail-oriented and academically trained writer with a strong foundation in research and article development, gained through extensive academic projects and independent writing. Proficient in producing content across a wide variety of topics, with a commitment to clarity, accuracy, and engaging narrative. Experienced behavioral therapist with strengths in observation, communication, and evidence-based reporting. Eager for new opportunities to utilize these skills to contribute to the psychological field.
Education and Certifications
- Master of Science in Psychology (Expected 2027)
San Pedro College, Davao City - Bachelor of Arts Major in Psychology (May 2022)
Notre Dame of Marbel University, Koronadal City - Registered Psychometrician
Professional Regulation Commission
Experience
- Resource Speaker (July 8, 2025)
South Cotabato I Electric Cooperative, Tantangan- Prepared a discussion on corporate grooming, communication, and professionalism for employees’ personality development training.
- Prepared activities to build rapport, reinforce discussions, and maintain attention.
- Behavioral Therapist (November 2022 – June 2025)
Teamworks Marbel, Koronadal City- Performed individualized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs to child clients to hone academic and life skills.
- Coordinated with respective program manager, parents, and teachers, and prepared documentation as required by the organization and the clients.
- Guest Lecturer (May 29, 2025)
Notre Dame of Marbel University, Koronadal City- Prepared a discussion on Developmental Psychology focusing on different theories regarding human development, processes involved in life from womb to tomb, and challenges faced in each phase of development.
- Delivered a lecture to undergraduate students to refresh previously given lessons in preparation for their board examination.
- Prepared a test to gauge student baseline knowledge on the subject.
- Resource Speaker (June 1, 2023)
STI College, Tacurong City- Prepared a seminar on mental health to 80 graduating students and professors to increase awareness and encourage coordination with the guidance office.
- Delivered an engaging lecture on stress, anxiety, depression, and stress management techniques that resulted in more accurate labelling of student experiences and openness to seek professional help when in distress.
- Resource Speaker (November 11, 2022)
Notre Dame of Tacurong College, Tacurong City- Spearheaded the training for Peer Helpers Organization students on psychological first-aid for organizational upskilling.
- Delivered a lecture and facilitated the discussion on the benefits and importance of on psychological first-aid and the different misconceptions revolving its practice to improve their ability to meet their responsibilities more thoroughly as member on the organization.
Professional Associations and Affiliations
- Psychological Association of the Philippines
Member (2023 – Present)
Tara Celestine N. Ocampo, BS Psychology
Work Experience
SHADOW TEACHER | E.D.G.E LEARNING CENTER
JUNE 2025 - PRESENT
- Provides assistance for teachers and students during classes
- Create anecdotal notes
Trainings
EDUCATIONAL SETTING | IMMACULATE CONCEPTION I-COLLEGE OF ARTS AND TECHNOLOGY / EDUCATIONAL DIVERSITY, GROWTH AND ENCOURAGEMENT LEARNING CENTER
- Assist School Guidance Counselor in administering and scoring test
- Sort students’ files
- Assist and teach students
INDUSTRIAL SETTING | IMMACULATE CONCEPTION POLYTECHNIC
- Conducts brief interview to work immersion students
- Sorting 201 files
- Assist human resource department in school activities
CLINICAL SETTING | KALINGA CENTER FOR WELL-BEING
- Do clinical interview
- Conducts psychological testing to parents and clients
- Create and present psychological screening report
Education
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION I-COLLEGE OF ARTS AND TECHNOLOGY SANTA MARIA BULACAN CAMPUS
TERTIARY EDUCATION, MAY 2025
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PSYCHOLOGY
SACRED HEART ACADEMY SANTA MARIA BULACAN
WITH HONORS AND CONDUCT AWARDEE
SECONDARY EDUCATION, 2021
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, MATHEMATICS STRAND (STEM)
References
SIR JEFFREY JAMES F. PAULINO, PSYCHOLOGIST, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST
Kalinga Center for Well-Being
09957608994
[email protected]
DR. MA.CECILIA R. NICOLAS, CEAC, PRINCIPAL
E.D.G.E Learning Center
09397103605
[email protected]
