FULLERTON, Calif. — Latinos make up nearly 40% of California's population. However, many have a hard time finding mental health services that are in Spanish or understand their cultural background.

California State University Fullerton launched a masters program in 2018 that prepares future Latinx therapist to provide culturally competent therapy. The program, Animo Latinx Counseling Emphasis, explores unique mental health needs that the Latinx community faces, from immigration trauma and intergenerational family conflict to ethnic identity and racism.

The program recently received an award from Excelencia in Education, a nonprofit organization recognizing success in higher education, Latino-based programs.