Shara Duncan

Shara Duncan, MSW, LCSW, ASDCS, SUDRC, is a seasoned mental health professional currently serving as the Lead Mental Health Policy Analyst at California Mental Health Services Authority since September 2024. In addition to this role, Shara is an Adjunct Professor of Psychology at Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology, where responsibilities include overseeing clinical development for graduate students. Shara maintains a private practice as a Licensed Psychotherapist, providing group, family, and individual therapy, and also works as a Per Diem Licensed Therapist at TALK THERAPY CENTER. Prior experience includes a Senior Program Policy Specialist position at Covered California, and various roles at Ventura County Health Care Agency and Ventura County Human Services Agency, focusing on compliance, privacy, and child welfare. Shara holds a Doctorate in Social Work Administration from Walden University and a Master's degree in Social Work from California State University, Long Beach.