Aloha, my name is Margaret Cadiz. I am a Licensed Social Worker in the State of Hawaii and have been helping people change their lives for over 38 years. I have dedicated my career to implementing a strength-based approach to counseling, focusing on the client’s strengths while exploring and addressing their vulnerabilities.

My passion for nurturing others began at age 12, in the suburbs of Chicago, when I opened a neighborhood “preschool” in my basement. As a teen, my family moved to Hawaii, where my understanding of community and the importance of relationships blossomed. I graduated from Kaiser High School and received both my BS in Human Development and Master of Social Work from the University of Hawaii.

Having been a counselor and therapist in both the public and private sectors, I have had the privilege of working with clients from a variety of cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. I have developed and executed curricula, programs, workshops, and retreats spanning all stages of life from childhood intervention to parents experiencing empty nest syndrome. Whether engaging in one-on-one counseling or a group setting, listening to and understanding your personal story is the foundation of my approach.

I lean on my own life and family experiences as an anchor when connecting with clients. My inspiration for Women Evolving is no different. As a daughter, sister, wife, mother to three grown children, and a tutu, I have and continue to go through my own evolution of authenticity in all my different roles. My goal for Women Evolving is to build a community of women who also learn to embrace the process of authenticity, a byproduct of living life with courage and vulnerability.

The journey of self-exploration can be challenging. It’s important to create joy whenever you can. I love the ocean, gardening, home decor, baking, hosting parties, eating healthy, and working out. I also love being silly and believe having a good sense of humor keeps me going!!