Minority Fellowship Program 2024-25 Master's Fellows 

This page outlines pictures and brief biographical information on all Foundation for the Advancement of Human Systems (FAHS) MFP Master's Fellows for the listed MFP Cohort. To find out more information on other MFP Fellows including their service/research areas of interest, award years, search the MFP Fellow Directory located at the bottom of this page.

Additional Fellow and Applicant Data can be found on the MFP Program Data page. If you are interested in applying for the MFP, visit the MFP Application Information page.

   Adrian William Cortez – University of Maryland

Adrian Cortez, a Washington, DC native now based in Maryland, is pursuing a Master’s in Couples and Family Therapy at the University of Maryland. Passionate about identity formation in teens and families, he specializes in tailored care for Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming clients, trauma recovery, and post-traumatic resilience. With experience in bilingual education, public health, hospice care, and crisis counseling for LGBTQ youth, Adrian is dedicated to creating affirming therapy spaces. His research, including "Tailored Trans Care," focuses on deconstructing binaries in therapy and fostering strength through gender identity journeys. In his free time, he enjoys nature, photography, and rollerblading.

Alyssa Chandler – Abilene Christian University

Originally from Anchorage, Alaska, Alyssa’s upbringing as a military dependent sparked her passion for diverse cultures and community engagement. She earned her BA in Human Development and Family Studies from American Public University and is now pursuing a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy at Abilene Christian University, specializing in the military family track. Alyssa works as a Substance Use Disorder Clinical Care (SUDCC) Social Service Assistant for the U.S. Army, supporting service members at risk for substance abuse and relapse. Committed to serving marginalized communities, she strives to strengthen individuals and families through therapy and advocacy.

Aniah Harris – Texas Woman’s University

Aniah Harris holds a bachelor’s in psychology and is pursuing a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy at Texas Woman’s University. Growing up in Lansing, Michigan, she witnessed the impact of family dynamics and the stigma surrounding mental health in minority communities, fueling her passion for accessible, culturally sensitive therapy. As a case manager, she has worked with diverse families and homeless populations, addressing issues like substance abuse and mental health barriers. Aniah’s research on Type 2 diabetes and religious coping was presented at SPSP, and she aspires to open a practice dedicated to supporting underserved communities with inclusive, stigma-free care.

Anna McCaskill – Oklahoma State University

Anna McCaskill, a Marriage and Family Therapy student at Oklahoma State University, is dedicated to supporting survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault. With years of experience as a victim’s advocate at Wings of Hope Family Crisis Center, she has received specialized training in survivor support and batterers' intervention programs. As a Sexual Assault Response Advocate (SARA), she helps clients understand their rights and available resources. Passionate about prevention and education, Anna aims to return to Tulsa to provide group therapy and outreach programs addressing teen dating violence and intimate partner violence in underserved communities.

Ariah Jones – Valdosta State University

Ariah Jones, a Cleveland, Ohio native, is pursuing a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy at Valdosta State University. A proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., she previously served as Assistant Director at EduCare Preschool, where she discovered her passion for advocating for children. Committed to breaking societal barriers, Ariah aims to establish group homes for adolescents transitioning from foster care, providing stability and mental health support. She is dedicated to fostering resilience and empowerment in underserved communities, striving to be a catalyst for positive change in the lives of individuals, couples, and families.

Brandon Booker – Valdosta State University

Brandon Booker is a graduate student in Marriage and Family Therapy at Valdosta State University with a passion for exploring diverse cultures and understanding family dynamics. His research focuses on mental health and substance abuse disparities in minority populations, examining intergenerational effects and developing culturally sensitive interventions. With training in family systems theory, therapeutic approaches, and conflict resolution, Brandon aims to bridge gaps in mental health care for underserved communities. An avid traveler and lifelong learner, he integrates cultural insights into his therapeutic practice, striving to create impactful, inclusive, and effective support for individuals and families.

 Catherine Zhong – Northwestern University

Catherine is a Master of Science student in Marriage and Family Therapy at Northwestern University with a passion for working with marginalized communities, particularly queer, trans, non-white, and immigrant populations. With experience in clinical practice and research, they focus on trauma, family dynamics, and adolescent therapy, utilizing DBT, ACT, and IFS approaches. Catherine is committed to integrating mental health support within communities to improve accessibility. They aspire to pursue a PhD in Social Work or Public Health to address systemic mental health disparities at both micro and macro levels, fostering lasting societal change.

Cherice Alcé – Loma Linda University

Cherice Alcé, a second-year Marriage and Family Therapy student at Loma Linda University, is passionate about equitable and accessible mental health care. With experience as a psychiatric technician and behavioral health case manager, she has worked extensively with underserved communities, particularly adolescents struggling with addiction. Cherice takes a systemic approach to therapy, integrating cultural, socioeconomic, and familial influences into her practice. She aspires to establish a private practice focusing on couples and families, emphasizing a family-oriented recovery model. As a Black woman, she is committed to fostering healing and culturally competent care in her community.

Cristal Torres Valencia – California State University, Northridge

Cristal Torres Valencia is a bilingual Mexican-American from South Central Los Angeles and a first-generation college graduate. She is a second-year MFT student at California State University, Northridge, with a background in psychobiology and Chicanx Studies from UCLA.

Passionate about mental health equity, Cristal has worked with nonprofits advocating for community wellness. She provides school-based therapy to under-resourced youth using creative approaches like art and play therapy. Her goals include reducing mental health stigma in the Latinx community and researching childhood trauma’s impact. She is committed to fostering resilience and healing in her community.

 Daisy Padilla Flores – University of San Diego

Daisy Padilla Flores is a second-year MFT student at the University of San Diego and a first-generation bilingual Mexican-American. Born in San Diego and raised in Tijuana, she navigated two cultures and languages while pursuing her education. Her personal experiences drive her passion for advocating for multicultural children and families, particularly within the Latinx community.

With over six years of experience in mental and behavioral health, Daisy has worked with underserved children and adolescents with developmental and intellectual disabilities. As an MFT trainee at Nueva Vista Family Services, she provides bilingual therapy to Spanish-speaking families, aiming to break barriers to treatment. She also serves as a research assistant, focusing on improving mental health outcomes in marginalized communities.

Daisy’s goal is to create a culturally inclusive therapeutic space where families can heal and strengthen relationships. Using a trauma-informed approach, she hopes to promote resilience and emotional well-being in children, youth, and families, ensuring they receive the support they deserve.

 Darbie Lastra – Alliant International University

Darbie Lastra, a Marriage and Family Therapy graduate student at Alliant International University, is passionate about family, mindfulness, and addressing intergenerational trauma. With a deep appreciation for nature, music, and spirituality, she integrates these elements into her personal and professional life. Her clinical focus includes family systems, substance use disorders, and culturally sensitive therapy for minority communities. Through her practicum, she works with families on communication and conflict resolution while facilitating group therapy for adults in recovery. Darbie aims to research the intersection of mental health and substance abuse, develop community-based prevention programs, and advocate for policies that improve access to culturally competent care.

 Erin “Rinny” Newell – Lewis & Clark Graduate School of Education

Erin “Rinny” Newell, a master’s student in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy at Lewis & Clark Graduate School of Education, specializes in Sexuality/Sex Therapy Counseling. With a background in family and estate law, Rinny has long advocated for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, focusing on securing legal protections for queer families. Now in the therapy field, Rinny integrates training in Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, and LGBTQIA+ family systems into clinical work with diverse clients. As a research assistant, Rinny explores Asian American language diversity in mental health and queer-forward MFT practices. Passionate about bridging mental health resource gaps, Rinny aims to advance culturally attuned care for marginalized communities.

 Jaiara Boskett – Northcentral University

Jaiara Boskett, born and raised in New Jersey, is a case manager and behavior technician dedicated to supporting families and individuals, particularly within underserved communities. A University of Delaware graduate in Women’s Studies, she has worked as an AmeriCorps Youth Ambassador and currently specializes in supporting young children with autism. Now pursuing a degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Northcentral University, Jaiara is committed to strengthening the Black family unit and providing free mental health care to low-income communities of color. Passionate about breaking generational cycles, she looks forward to clinical training focused on addiction and trauma.

  Jalon Harris – Northwestern University

Jalon Harris, born in Belleville, Illinois, and raised in the southern Illinois area, is a second-year graduate student in the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Northwestern University. With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Morehouse College, Jalon works as a Clinical Care Specialist at Behavioral Health Response in St. Louis, providing crisis counseling and safety plans for individuals in mental health crises. His research interests include the psychological impact of online learning on HBCU students post-pandemic and mental health disparities in marginalized communities. Jalon is passionate about creating accessible mental health care for racial, sexual, and socioeconomically marginalized groups, inspired by his own experiences growing up in a community where mental health was stigmatized.

  Jaylen McBride – Mount Mercy University

Jaylen McBride, born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, is a master's student in the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Mount Mercy University. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and neuroscience from Wartburg College. Jaylen is passionate about social justice, mental health, and integrating neuroscience with therapy. Her research interests focus on social support for mothers with bipolar disorder, as well as intergenerational trauma, substance abuse, and multiculturalism. Jaylen is committed to increasing access to mental health care for underserved populations and aims to reduce stigma through outreach and psychoeducation. She plans to pursue a doctorate and educate future clinicians.

  Jazenda Garcia – Iona University

Jazenda Garcia, born and raised in the Bronx, New York, is pursuing a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy at Iona University. With a passion for helping underserved communities, Jazenda aims to provide low-cost mental health services and eventually open a practice that is accessible to those in need. Currently interning at KAPPA International High School, she works with students and their families to address challenges affecting their daily lives. Jazenda’s career goals focus on educating communities about mental health, addressing substance abuse, and contributing to the field’s understanding of minority and underserved populations’ needs.

  Jocelyn (Joy) De Guzman – The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

Jocelyn "Joy" De Guzman, born in Quezon City, Philippines, and raised in Los Angeles, CA, is pursuing a MA in Marriage, Couples & Family Therapy at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. After earning her Juris Doctor from UC Berkeley and Harvard Law, Joy spent 20 years in corporate law, where she developed a passion for addressing clients' psychological needs. Drawing from her personal experiences as a 1.5 generation Filipina American, she is dedicated to decolonizing mental health and enhancing access to culturally competent services, particularly for AAPI and immigrant youth. Fluent in English and Tagalog, Joy aims to provide therapy and psychoeducation that integrates culture, family systems, and mental health, with a focus on identity formation, trauma, and burnout prevention.

  Karla Rica Piccio – Texas Tech University

Karla Rica Piccio, born in the Philippines and now residing in Lubbock, Texas, is a second-year master’s student in Couples, Marriage, and Family Therapy at Texas Tech University. She has a strong passion for sharing her Filipino culture and enjoys cooking traditional dishes, celebrating cultural festivities, and spending time outdoors with her two dogs. Karla Rica’s academic focus includes working with couples, young adults, immigrants, minority families, and veterans, with a particular interest in providing multiculturally informed therapy. She aims to raise awareness and representation of the Filipino population in mental health, addressing cultural dynamics, mental health stigmas, and the impact of migration on families. Through her clinical practice and research, including her work on Filipino-American populations, Karla Rica is dedicated to advancing culturally competent therapy and promoting inclusivity within the field.

 Finch Houdek – University of Wisconsin – Stout

Finch Houdek (they/he) is an aspiring Marriage and Family Therapist currently studying at the University of Wisconsin – Stout. They grew up in Brookfield, Wisconsin, and now reside in Eau Claire. Finch’s journey into the field of MFT was inspired by their experiences in the queer and trans community, where they witnessed the mental health disparities and lack of culturally competent care for people like themselves. Their clinical interests include working with queer, trans, non-binary, neurodivergent, disabled, fat, non-monogamous, and BDSM-kink-fetish communities. Finch’s past work in disability waiver case management and volunteering with the LGBT National Helpline has deepened their connection to these populations. They are especially passionate about trauma, violence, and substance use, and advocate for culturally relevant sexual health education to promote well-being in marginalized communities. Finch hopes to continue their advocacy efforts and increase awareness of comprehensive sex education in the MFT field, believing it is essential to improving overall health outcomes.

 Latierra Harris – Northcentral University

Latierra Harris, originally from Hackensack, New Jersey, now resides in Brooklyn, New York, where she is a graduate student in the Marriage and Family Therapy program at Northcentral University. She holds a BA in Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University and is currently undergoing training as a student intern at North Brooklyn Marriage and Family Therapy. Latierra’s commitment to mental health services grew during her time as a Certified Medical Assistant, where she developed active listening and empathy skills. Her professional interests include traumatic responses, body image, food relationships, and supporting youth and couples through career and education transitions. Latierra is dedicated to promoting social justice, reducing stigma, and advocating for LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities. Her future goals include establishing a private practice as an LMFT, pursuing a PhD in psychology, and collaborating with schools and organizations to combat bias while providing mental health education and services.

 Leandro Lozada – Campbellsville University

Leandro Lozada is pursuing a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy at Campbellsville University in Louisville, KY, where he resides with his wife Kelsey and their two daughters. Born in France and raised in Mexico, Leandro’s personal journey as an immigrant and his experiences with counselors and mentors have deeply influenced his desire to help others. Fluent in Spanish, he is passionate about offering culturally competent therapy to the Latino community, particularly individuals transitioning into adulthood. With a background as a program director at a Louisville non-profit, where he mentored young adults, Leandro is dedicated to supporting young men and empowering them to navigate societal challenges. As a photographer with work featured in The New York Times and The Washington Post, Leandro’s diverse experiences equip him to make a meaningful impact in the mental health field, particularly for marginalized populations.

 Madelyn Bingham – Auburn University

Madelyn Bingham is pursuing a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy at Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama. Born in Logan, Utah, and raised in Spanish Fork, Utah, Madelyn is passionate about advocating for human and animal rights. Her interests include spending time with her husband, traveling, fostering rescue cats, and cooking plant-based food. Madelyn’s research focuses on the impact of trauma on couples and families, with a special emphasis on trauma-informed care for immigrant families, particularly Spanish-speaking communities. Fluent in Spanish from living in Peru for two years, Madelyn’s clinical expertise lies in providing culturally-sensitive trauma therapy to immigrant families. She has experience as a research assistant at Utah State University, helping develop the Háblame Bebé app, which supports bilingualism and cultural pride for Spanish-speaking parents and infants. Currently serving Spanish-speaking clients as an intern therapist at Auburn University’s MFT clinic, Madelyn is dedicated to expanding access to culturally-sensitive mental health services for underserved populations. Through her training and lived experience, she aims to bridge gaps in care and advocate for immigrant families facing stigma and language barriers.

 Megan Geisen – Saint Mary’s University – Twin Cities campus

Megan Geisen, born into a military family, spent her early years living around the world before settling in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Currently pursuing a degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Saint Mary’s University – Twin Cities campus, Megan’s career journey has spanned military leadership, animal science, and medical research. Her diverse experiences led her to a passion for healing family systems, particularly through addressing intergenerational trauma and attachment injuries. Megan advocates for holistic approaches to mental health, incorporating energy work, herbal medicine, nutrition, and emotional validation to process traumatic memories. With a focus on young adult couples and adolescents, Megan is training in Brainspotting, Discernment Counseling, and plans to expand into Equine EMDR, Yoga Instruction, and Reiki. She is deeply committed to decolonizing mental health practices, emphasizing culturally diverse perspectives, and integrating western medical practices to heal the whole body. Outside of her professional work, Megan enjoys spending time with her family and pets, going on motorcycle adventures with her partner, and cultivating gardens while exploring nutritious comfort foods.

 Monica Shaw – Oregon Institute of Technology

Monica Shaw, born in Mountain View, CA and raised in the San Joaquin Valley, is an enrolled Tribal member of the Oglala Sioux tribe. She completed her BS in Applied Health from the University of Montana in 2013 and has spent the last eleven years working in Head Start programs, where she developed a deep passion for advocating for underserved communities. This work has led her to pursue a career in Marriage and Family Therapy, with a focus on supporting rural, minority, Indigenous, and underserved populations. Currently entering her third year in the MS Marriage and Family Therapy program at Oregon Institute of Technology, Monica aims to help individuals and families heal from past traumas, including generational trauma and addiction. Her career aspirations center on bringing her advocacy experience to therapy, helping people from diverse backgrounds find healing and strength. Outside of her professional work, Monica enjoys traveling, hiking with her partner and three boys, and spending time with their family dog on the Oregon coast. Monica’s life philosophy is rooted in being present and embracing the journey of life.

  Nikita Prasad – Chapman University

Nikita, born in London, England, comes from a lineage of compassionate women, including her grandmother, a midwife in India, and her mother, a teacher who nurtured her students’ natural talents. Now residing in Orange County, California, Nikita is pursuing Marriage and Family Therapy at Chapman University, continuing her legacy of care. Her journey into counseling was sparked during her time as a resident advisor at USC, and further shaped by her work as a camp counselor and tutor with underserved youth in South LA. Her career in tech as a recruiter at Google allowed her to merge her passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) with mental health advocacy. Nikita spearheaded wellbeing workshops and a 20% project at Google, impacting over 300 employees, which led her to pursue a graduate education in Marriage and Family Therapy. Her clinical interests focus on prevention, early intervention, and supporting individuals and organizations through life transitions. Nikita aims to help clients build self-regulation skills, create support systems, and connect with their authentic selves. Outside of work and school, she enjoys playing Dungeons and Dragons, exploring new art forms, and spending time with her partner Josh and their dachshund, Deuce.

 Samuel (Sam) Yu – The Ohio State University

Samuel (Sam) Yu is a final-year MS student in Human Development and Family Science, specializing in Couple and Family Therapy at The Ohio State University. A licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee (MFT-T), he provides therapy at OSU’s Couple and Family Therapy Clinic and Nationwide Children’s Hospital, focusing on underserved populations. He also works as a research assistant on projects addressing suicide prevention for substance-using homeless youth and Black individuals in consensual non-monogamous relationships. His research interests include eating disorders, at-risk youth, multicultural relationships, and sexual health. Sam’s thesis explores the impact of hookup culture on relationship formation, aiming to defend by Spring 2025. Passionate about expanding mental health access, he integrates research and clinical work to serve marginalized communities.

Sofia Mari Moisa – Alliant International University

Sofia Mari Moisa, a Couple and Family Therapy student at Alliant International University, is passionate about advocacy, community engagement, and culturally responsive mental health care. Their experience includes working with individuals facing intellectual disabilities, domestic violence, severe mental illness, and substance misuse. Sofia will present research on intergenerational trauma at the 2024 Institute on Violence, Abuse and Trauma Conference Summit. Rooted in justice and equitability, they aim to create systemic change by integrating behavioral and physical health care, reforming policies, and fostering resilience in BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. Using a strengths-based feminist approach, Sofia is committed to dismantling oppressive structures and ensuring mental health services prioritize inclusivity and cultural humility.

 Tooba Zafar – Northeastern Illinois University

Born in Karachi, Pakistan, and raised in Chicago, Tooba Zafar is a master’s student in Couple and Family Therapy at Northeastern Illinois University. She has lived in Seychelles, Mississippi, and Michigan but now calls Chicago home. With a passion for mental health advocacy, she has worked as a community health educator and HIV housing case manager, supporting underserved populations, including racial and ethnic minorities and LGBTQ+ individuals. Her research focuses on the experiences of divorced Muslim women, shedding light on the unique challenges faced by South Asian Muslim women in the U.S. Tooba aims to destigmatize divorce, empower Muslim women, and promote models of healthy relationships within South Asian families. Through her work, she is committed to expanding culturally competent mental health care, increasing access, and advancing prevention strategies for minority communities, aligning with the MFP-Y’s mission to enhance mental health and substance abuse treatment for underserved populations.

Vanessa Cabral – California State University, Long Beach

A SoCal native, Vanessa Cabral was born in Pasadena, CA, and now resides in Glendora, CA. She earned her bachelor's degree in psychology from California State University, Long Beach in 2022 and returned to pursue her master's in counseling psychology. Passionate about working with minority populations, she has experience supporting low-income families, children with developmental and behavioral disorders, and individuals with disabilities. Vanessa also volunteers in dance classes for teens and adults with Down Syndrome. Beginning her practicum at a community clinic serving primarily Hispanic and Black low-income populations, she is committed to creating an empathetic and affirming space for historically underserved individuals. Drawing from her lived experience as a Woman of Color, Vanessa aims to expand culturally competent mental health services for marginalized communities.