Yesenia Rios

I am convinced that the best source of investment is knowledge. That's the reason that I decided to pursue my long-term goal with obtaining a Ph.D. in Health Psychology at Northcentral University. The Doctoral Program in Health Psychology interests me to research innovative, cost-effective, interdisciplinary strategies for integrating behavioral health into all aspects of healthcare delivery especially to my passion when working with Latino communities with diverse backgrounds. The Latino population comprises about 58-60 million in the United States with many leaving their countries of origin for many reasons but not limited to natural disasters, violent communities, lack of job opportunities, and poor education, etc. Our country of origin greatly impacts our beliefs that we hold including mental and physical health. The utilization rates of behavioral health services are generally less in comparison to Non-Latino populations.

Changes are the US health care system is quickly creating a more favorable environment for health care organizations and providers to integrate behavioral health into all aspects of medical care. While we are moving in the right direction there is still much work to be done especially in regards to the lack of research for diverse populations specifically, Latinx communities. As I continue to learn and identify worthy topics, the one that is close to my heart promoting the inclusion of integrated care within larger health system transformation efforts around the country to provide the highest quality care for patients and their families. Studies and literature have shown that integrated care behavioral health models do increase utilization and clinical outcomes in Latino populations. Specialized training for bilingual providers is minimal so there is much work to be done in this area so workforce development would be one key area to focus on in training to meet the needs of Latino communities, in addition, to learn to adapt with Latino communities to practice letting go of the cultural stigma that demands much qualitative research.

Nearly one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness, according to a 2017 survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Experts say talking openly about mental health can help break down stigmas that persist around depression, addiction, eating disorders, and other issues. My current leadership role allows me to serve the community through direct patient care incorporating multiple evidence-based treatment modalities to guide the counseling process for dealing with issues of trauma, depression, anxiety, and other mental health & behavioral issues. Earning a doctoral degree will have an impact in many significant ways, including emphasizing personal development gains such as maturity, independence, self-actualization through meeting professional aspirations, and being the first to earn a doctoral degree in my family. Also, I will further my development in the areas of perseverance, persistence, time management, and organizational skills, among others. The skills learned will be utilized not only in the workplace but also in everyday life.

My hobbies and interests include art, volunteer work to establish a non-profit organization, and traveling the world to develop knowledge of different cultures.