Joni Thieling, LCSW — Director of Continuous Quality Improvement
Joni Thieling earned her Master of Social Work degree from Florida International University in 1996 and earned her license as a Clinical Social Worker in 1999. She is an Associate Member of the Florida Society of Clinical Hypnosis and also maintains a Certified Addictions Professional credential from the Florida Certification Board.
Joni was one of the first therapists hired by Tykes & Teens in 1996, providing services at a residential children’s shelter. She became to Supervisor in 2000 and became Director of Continuous Quality Improvement in 2001, then termed Quality Assurance Director. In addition, she is Chair of Tykes & Teens’ Continuous Quality Improvement Committee, which oversees risk management procedures and ensures maintenance of the agency’s national accreditation with the Joint Commission.
Joni is passionate about the work done at Tykes & Teens, describing her experience here saying: “I was in the right place at the right time, doing my internship at a residential children’s shelter, when Tykes & Teens contracted with the shelter to provide therapeutic services to the children. Not wanting to leave this position when I graduated, I was fortunate to be able to continue working there with the kids. After 24 years and a few role changes, it’s still about the kids and continuously improving the amazing services our agency provides for the children, families and the community.”