Since its founding in 1983, La Clínica del Pueblo has dedicated itself to building a healthy Latino community in the Washington, D.C. metro area. What sets them apart is their commitment to offering culturally appropriate mental health services, like Mi Familia. This program counsels Latino individuals and families who are traumatized by the immigrant experience.

With the Maximus Foundation’s support, Mi Familia served more participants last year than ever before. Marta* was just one of last year’s 101 beneficiaries. After eight long years, this 13-year-old Salvadorian girl would reunite with her parents in the United States. She always dreamt about their reunion. Yet, Marta never expected to learn her parents separated or that her father was an alcoholic. To make matters worse, she felt her parents were cold and distant. Marta felt devastated.

Soon, Marta withdrew from everyone around her. Her mother noticed Marta seemed angry and sad. She even had a difficult time getting along with her brother. Concerned, she enrolled her in the Mi Familia program after the clinic diagnosed Marta with adjustment disorder. As part of their holistic approach, her mother attended their bilingual psychoeducation group. There, Marta’s mother gained the tools and confidence to support her daughter’s mental health. At the same time, Marta received both individual and group therapy.

Since becoming a patient, Marta has done much better. She learned to accept her parent’s separation, and she learned how to communicate and cope better. La Clínica del Pueblo is providing the essential tools people need to live a healthier and happier life. We are proud to support their mission as they continue to make a lasting difference in the lives of Latino families and, in turn, our communities.

Learn more about La Clínica del Pueblo at lcdp.org.

*The name has been changed to protect the patient's privacy.