A practice shaped by decades of work in schools, healthcare, and family systems. Reconnections Counseling, LLC was founded by John B. Ortiz (he/him/his). John grew up in Brooklyn, New York City and has called Brookline, Massachusetts home for the past 26 years. With over 25 years of experience in public schools and healthcare settings, John has worked as a peer mediation specialist, an outpatient clinician for children and adolescents, and, for the past 18 years, a clinical school social worker. John specializes in supporting adolescents and young adults through critical life transitions, both within and beyond educational settings. He has a particular passion for helping older adolescents and young adults navigate the transition beyond high school—finding their footing, building resilience, and moving forward as fully supported and resourced adults. He also enjoys partnering with youth and families to navigate IEPs and strengthen their voices within the education system. John is committed to providing affirming, inclusive care and has extensive experience supporting neurodivergent, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ identified youth and their families. Outside of his work, John is an avid fan of Golden Era Hip-Hop, enjoys playing sports and spending time outdoors, has been married for 29 years, is the proud parent of two amazing children, and is fluent in both English and Spanish.