About Erika Peterson-Warren

Erika Peterson-Warren, LCSW-PIP

PAC Member

"I'm convinced of this: Good done anywhere is good done everywhere. For a change, start by speaking to people rather than walking by them like they're stones that don't matter. As long as you're breathing, it's never too late to do some good."

– Maya Angelou

Erika is a full time clinical social worker and adjunct instructor at the University of South Dakota's MSW program. She is passionate about working with adolescents and trauma survivors. Erika's most important role in life is caring for her young son, who has multiple mental health struggles. She is dedicated to helping her son and clients live to their highest potential.

Erika holds a BS in Human Development and Family Sciences from Oregon State University and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of South Dakota. In 2013, she won the University Professional and Continuing Education Association (UPCEA) Region West Outstanding Nontraditional Student Award. 

Erika joined the PAIMI Advisory Council in 2020. She is an Advisory Council Member representing a family member who is a services recipient. She says, “I have a voice to help those who believe they do not have any options. To bring hope to those with very little is a very powerful thing. I fully believe in empowering others.” 

Erika is married and has one son. She also has a Mini Schnauzer named Kizzy and a cat named Keats. In her free time, she enjoys crochet, reading, and riding her motorcycle. Something interesting about Erika is that she lived on the Navajo Nation for 8 years and worked as a flight paramedic.