Perea graduated with her Master of Social Work with honors and began postgraduate clinical work within hospital systems and with at-risk youth. She went on to lead the growth and national scaling of a private alternative educational model for students with unique learning needs. Recognizing the gap in service offerings for young adults with autism and her passion for such issues, Perea was then called to a leadership role within an organization that focused on preparing individuals for a life of greater independence and fulfillment. Before joining BHCOE, Perea served on the executive team of Refresh Mental Health, one of the largest national outpatient behavioral health companies, and ultimately the Optum Division of UnitedHealth Group.