GSEP Spotlight: Christian Sandoval
The Pepperdine GSEP Spotlight Series highlights students and alumni whose journeys reflect Purpose, Service, and Leadership in action. Our next spotlight features Christian Sandoval (MA in Clinical Psychology, MFT 24’, and current PsyD in Clinical Psychology student), whose resilience and dedication to mental health advocacy exemplify the strength of the Pepperdine GSEP community.
Christian Sandoval is a dedicated student in the Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology program at Pepperdine GSEP. As an alumnus of the MA in Clinical Psychology, MFT program 24’, Christian’s journey has been defined by resilience, perseverance, and a deep commitment to mental health advocacy.
Growing up, Christian was profoundly influenced by the sacrifices of his parents, who immigrated from Mexico in pursuit of a better future. Their belief in the power of education instilled in him a profound appreciation for learning—not just as a means of self-improvement, but as a tool for uplifting others, particularly those whose voices have been silenced or overlooked.
Pepperdine GSEP has been a pivotal space for Christian’s growth and empowerment. Through his experiences as a Graduate Assistant and an MFT/PsyD trainee, he has developed a deep understanding of the importance of honoring one’s personal story while guiding others in rewriting their own. He believes, “Resilience is not about what we endure, but what we build from what we endure”. This philosophy fuels his passion for bridging the gaps in mental health services, ensuring that psychological support extends beyond the therapeutic office and into real-world settings.
Finding his voice was not an easy journey for Christian. He recalls often silencing himself, believing that his struggles were his alone to bear. However, his perspective shifted when he entered college and became actively involved in the Psychology Club and other community organizations. Through these experiences, he discovered the power of shared narratives, realizing that one’s voice can serve as a guiding light for others navigating similar challenges. His countless conversations with peers have reinforced the importance of collective resilience and the need to build communities where individuals can connect, share, and grow together.
Throughout his academic and personal journey, Christian has carried one guiding question: “If not now, when?” This question has continually pushed him to embrace courage and advocate for hope, healing, and harmony. For Christian, resilience is about standing tall even in the face of doubt and recognizing that one’s voice holds immense power. His message to others is clear:
“Your voice is your power. Even when it trembles, it has the strength to move towards healing. As a reminder, you are more resilient than you know, and your story matters more than you think. Loving oneself is the greatest love to give”.