The demand for increased access to mental Health care is on the rise in Nebraska, with a particular focus on meeting the needs of the Latino community. Recent data from AM Counseling and Consulting reveals that only around 7% of graduates in the mental health field are proficient in Spanish, highlighting a significant gap as the Latino population continues to grow.
Laura Sanchez, the founder and CEO of AM Counseling and Consulting, emphasized the lack of bilingual services available to the Latino community, especially in the realm of behavioral health. To address this issue, their group therapy practice has made a concerted effort to provide bilingual services, with 15 out of their 20 therapists fluent in Spanish.
The interns at AM Counseling and Consulting, such as Daisy Sanchez and Monica Godinez, underscore the importance of representation in mental health services. By offering free or low-cost services to underserved community members, these interns are not only furthering their education but also making a meaningful impact on those in need.
AM Counseling and Consulting aims to inspire other practices to follow suit by fostering a diverse and inclusive environment that caters to the linguistic and cultural needs of all individuals. The organization hopes to encourage more bilingual therapists to join the field in Nebraska, where the demand for such services remains high.
Ultimately, the conversation about mental health within the Latino community is gaining traction, thanks to the efforts of organizations like AM Counseling and Consulting. By breaking down stigmas and providing accessible care, they are paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive mental health landscape in the state.
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