Community Engagement

Students don't just learn about communities—they learn with communities.

Aliento's community engagement model is designed to complement classroom instruction by providing students with opportunities to learn alongside community partners, apply community-based psychological principles in real-world settings, and develop the professional judgment, cultural humility, and collaborative skills essential for effective therapeutic practice.

Aliento's community engagement activities extend student learning beyond the classroom by fostering meaningful collaboration with community organizations, behavioral health professionals, schools, churches, and local service providers. These partnerships provide opportunities for students to apply their clinical knowledge while contributing to mental health education, outreach, and professional collaboration.

Recognizing the diversity and strengths of Latinx and Spanish-speaking communities, the program prepares students to engage with individuals and families through cultural humility, ethical practice, and respect for the inherent dignity of every person. Community experiences reinforce the importance of listening, collaboration, and relationship-building as essential components of effective psychological practice.

Community Outreach and Education

Aliento provides educational programs, workshops, and consultation designed to promote mental health awareness, strengthen family and community well-being, and increase understanding of behavioral health services. Outreach activities may include presentations on parenting, relationships, stress management, communication, resilience, and other topics that support healthy individuals and families.

Through collaboration with community organizations and behavioral health professionals, students gain experience translating psychological knowledge into practical, culturally informed resources that benefit the communities they serve.

Professional and Community Partnerships

Aliento collaborates with local, national, and international organizations to strengthen professional learning, research, and community engagement. These partnerships create opportunities for students, faculty, and professionals to exchange knowledge, participate in continuing education, and promote evidence-informed behavioral health practices across diverse communities.

Dia del Nino 

Aliento students participated in a community outreach event celebrating Dia del Nino at a local elementary school. They provided psychoeducational materials to parents and K-12 students.  They engaged students to participate in mental health related activities geared towards identifying emotions in the body and regulating breathwork.