Promotional Spotlight: Celebrating the Leadership Journey of Yojanne Blanco

May 5, 2026

Promotional Spotlight: Yojanne Blanco, LMFT Clinical Manager

Yojanne’ s journey with Penny Lane Centers began 15 years ago in the Lancaster office of the Foster Family Agency, where she served as a Social Worker and In-Home Support Counselor. Over the years, she has steadily advanced her career within the organization, taking on a range of roles including Outpatient Therapist and MAT Assessor, Therapeutic Behavioral Clinical Supervisor, and most recently, Clinical Program Manager.

Yojanne stepped into a more advanced leadership role as Clinical Manager. The Clinic Program Manager (CPM) is responsible for the oversight and management of specialty outpatient programs, which may include, but are not limited to, school-based mental health services, outpatient care services, and psychiatric or medication services. The CPM ensures that treatment provided within these programs aligns with Penny Lane’s philosophy and adheres to current standards of quality of care, medical necessity, and all requirements established by the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health.

Yojanne first learned about Penny Lane through a classmate who spoke positively about their experience, highlighting the organization’s strong mission and commitment to supporting the community. This left an impression on her and inspired her to become part of the organization.

What was your journey prior to coming to Penny Lane Centers (PLC)?

Prior to joining Penny Lane, I worked as a tutor for K–12 students, supporting elementary and middle school children in mathematics and language arts. She graduated on the Dean’s List in December 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from California State University, Northridge (CSUN).

What brought you to PLC?

While I was in graduate school, several of my classmates worked at Penny Lane and spoke highly of their experiences, noting the organization’s positive work environment and the wide range of professional opportunities available to those who apply.

What is your favorite aspect of working at PLC?

Penny Lane consistently demonstrates its commitment to its mission statement. Its staff play a vital role in making a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of those they serve.

What was the path to promotion like for you, and how did the PLC team support you?

I have been with Penny Lane for 15 years, building a progressive career across multiple clinical roles. I began as a Social Worker in the Foster Family Agency Program (FFA), later transitioning to the ITFC (ISFC) program as an In-Home Support Counselor. I then moved into the clinic as an Outpatient Therapist before advancing to the MAT program, where I served as a MAT Assessor for over nine years.

In 2023, I was promoted to TBS Supervisor, followed by advancement to Clinical Supervisor in 2024. Most recently, I was promoted to Clinical Manager. Throughout my career at PLC, I have been consistently encouraged and supported by my supervisors to pursue advancement opportunities, which have contributed to my ongoing professional growth and leadership development.

What benefits did PLC offer that helped further your education or career?

During my employment with Penny Lane, I have been supported in my career development and have been fortunate to work with supervisors who provided consistent guidance, flexibility, and encouragement while I completed my graduate studies. I was also able to take advantage of the educational reimbursement program, which helped cover study materials for my licensing exam as well as contribute toward my student loan expenses.

What has been the most difficult part of your role as a Therapist in Coordinated Entry Systems (CES)?

In my new role as Clinical Manager, I am continuing to develop my ability to effectively manage multiple responsibilities. I have already made meaningful progress and remain committed to ongoing improvement.

What would people be surprised to know about you?

People might be surprised to learn that I enjoy playing the Nintendo Switch, and that Super Mario games are my favorites.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

What I put into life is what I get out of it.

What event in your life shaped you most significantly?

Becoming a mother to my 15-month-old son has significantly shaped my perspective. The world now feels both brighter and more complex, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be his mother. He brings purpose and motivation to my life each day.

What do you appreciate most about Penny Lane Centers?

I am genuinely grateful for the opportunities I have had to grow and move forward in my career. I also deeply appreciate my colleagues, who are always supportive and quick to lend a helping hand when needed.

Please share something you are grateful for.

I am grateful to have a supportive family and a fulfilling career.

Yojanne’s story is a powerful reflection of what growth, dedication, and heart-centered leadership can look like at Penny Lane Centers. From supporting youth and families directly in the field to now guiding clinical programs as a Clinical Program Manager, her journey demonstrates the impact of perseverance, passion, and a commitment to service. Her ability to lead with compassion while continuing to grow professionally is an inspiration to colleagues across the organization. Penny Lane is proud to celebrate Yojanne’s accomplishments and grateful for the lasting difference she continues to make in the lives of the individuals, families, and teams she supports every day.

Congratulations Yojanne!

-Ronetta Gandy, Penny Lane Centers