Andrea, originally from Tegucigalpa, Honduras, earned her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Utah with a minor in Criminology. She works with children ages five and up, using Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, CBT, and mindfulness-based approaches.

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At the Multicultural Counseling Center, Andrea is passionate about supporting the Latino community. In her free time, she enjoys trying new foods, spending time with family, and exploring the outdoors with her German Shepherd Husky.

Javier, originally from Colombia, earned his Master’s in Social Work from the University of Utah. He is a bilingual therapist at the Multicultural Counseling Center and teaches at SLCC and the U of U, specializing in CBT, MI, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness.

With 14+ years in nonprofit work, he is committed to supporting underserved communities. In his free time, he enjoys cooking, writing poetry, and being with family.

Ruben, originally from Pachuca, Mexico, earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s in Social Work from the University of Utah. He specializes in trauma-informed, client-centered therapy with couples, teens, and families.

He is passionate about helping clients build resilience and stronger relationships. Outside of work, he enjoys coaching sports, dancing, traveling, and time with his wife and six children.

Patricia, originally from Jalisco, Mexico, earned her Bachelor’s in Social Work from Utah Valley University and her Master’s from Boise State University. She is certified in TF-CBT and domestic violence treatment and works with clients of all ages, focusing on anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationships.

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At the Multicultural Counseling Center, Patricia is dedicated to supporting the Latinx community and reducing mental health stigma. In her free time, she enjoys music, sightseeing, reading, and traveling.

Marc, a Chicano therapist born in Compton, California and raised in West Valley City, Utah, primarily works with children and adolescents but welcomes clients of all ages.

He is trained in play therapy and integrates mindfulness, DBT, and IFS in his practice. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Marc is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for all.

Evelyn, originally from Mexico, moved to the U.S. at 16 and pursued social work with certifications in Positive Psychology and Substance Use Disorder. She is dedicated to supporting the Latino community, especially those affected by domestic violence and substance abuse.

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At the Multicultural Counseling Center, Evelyn provides compassionate care to empower her clients. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and dog and listening to music.

Melannie, born and raised in Salt Lake County, earned her Bachelor’s and Substance Use Disorder Counseling certificate from the University of Utah and will return for her Master’s in 2024.

She specializes in CBT, mindfulness, and skills-based support for anxiety, depression, and substance use. Passionate about advocating for mental health in the Hispanic community, she enjoys sports, concerts, and time with loved ones.

Rachel, a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, holds a background in social work and child development with a focus on trauma-informed care and cultural competency. She works with clients of all ages, specializing in EFT, CBT, DBT, and art/play therapy to address anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.

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At the Multicultural Counseling Center, Rachel empowers clients toward emotional growth and mindful living. Outside of work, she enjoys karaoke, movies, and family road trips.

Abigail, originally from Cuba, earned her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Utah and is a certified Substance Use Disorder Counselor (SUDC). She specializes in trauma, addiction, anxiety, depression, and life transitions, using CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed care.

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At the Multicultural Counseling Center, Abigail fosters a warm, supportive environment to help clients heal and grow. Outside of work, she enjoys photography, sunsets, and volunteering in her community.

Deeqa Hamid is a social work professional experienced in advocating for individuals affected by domestic violence and homelessness. She holds certifications in Domestic Violence 01 & 02 and child trauma, abuse, and neglect.

During her practicum at Focal Point, she mentored school-aged children in group therapy addressing bullying, discrimination, and challenges related to poverty or domestic violence, and researched adoption dynamics, including interracial adoption.

Amira, originally from Colombia, moved to the U.S. at age 28. She holds a degree in Psychology and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Utah and has experience working with teenagers and trauma clients.

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At the Multicultural Counseling Center, Amira is passionate about supporting clients and Latino community outreach. In her free time, she enjoys dancing, attending concerts, and traveling.

Samantha Trusena is a bilingual Spanish and English speaker and a Master of Social Work student at the University of Utah. As a Mexican-American and member of the queer community, she brings a culturally grounded and inclusive perspective to her work.

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At the Multicultural Counseling Center, Samantha is passionate about creating safe, affirming spaces where clients feel heard and supported. Her approach emphasizes warmth, curiosity, and collaboration to help clients move toward growth and healing.

Hector Tapia, MSW, is a Couples and Trauma Therapist specializing in trauma, anxiety, and couples therapy for adults. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), he helps clients understand how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors interact, guiding intentional changes for meaningful growth.

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At the Multicultural Counseling Center, Hector provides a safe, nonjudgmental space for clients to explore experiences, build resilience, and reconnect with their inner strength. He offers therapy in both individual and couples formats.