Dr. Miguel Gallardo Discusses Latinx Mental Health and the MA in Clinical Psychology MFT with Latinx Communities Program on KTLA
Dr. Miguel Gallardo, Professor and program director for the Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) with Latinx Communities at Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP), appeared on KTLA Weekend Morning News. His appearance, coinciding with the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, highlighted the unique approach of the MA in Clinical Psychology MFT with Latinx Communities program, which is administered through the Aliento Program. This academic program prepares future clinicians to meet the mental health needs of Latinx communities.
Gallardo described how the Aliento Program prepares students to serve these communities by embedding cultural and contextual considerations throughout the curriculum. “Our students are trained from the very beginning to consider cultural and contextual factors as they develop their clinical skills,” Gallardo noted. “This foundation ensures that when students approach traditional theories or ethical guidelines, they will filter that information through a cultural and contextual lens, preparing them to serve Latinx communities in a truly culturally responsive way.”
He also emphasized the program’s commitment to educating Latinx students who often return to serve their own communities. This focus not only enhances representation within the mental health field but also fosters a greater sense of trust and understanding between clinicians and the populations they serve.
“We aim to provide our students with the knowledge and tools to go back and serve their communities, increasing both access to care and representation,” Gallardo said.
The MA in Clinical Psychology MFT with Latinx Communities program, administered through the Aliento Program, continues to play a pivotal role in preparing culturally informed clinicians to serve diverse communities in Southern California and beyond.