This course will hold space and guide through intentional exploration and deconstruction of the colonial mentality in mental health practices. Identification of the need for a shift in both, this training will introduce clinicians to Interactive examples and pertinent vocabulary and shifting practices. Cultural components will be highlighted, as well as systematic disparities within access, assessment, and the process of mental health services.
Natalia Alvarez-Figueroa MMT, MT-BC: Natalia Alvarez-Figueroa is a Music Therapist at NSC. Afro Latina, born and raised in Puerto Rico, Natalia holds a master's degree in music therapy and is a board-certified music therapist working in the trauma field since 2012. Natalia has complete training in TF-CBT, is also trained in EMDR, and is a bilingual (Spanish/English) professional. Natalia’s professional history includes outpatient, inpatient, residential treatment, drug and alcohol dependance recovery, and safe house coordinator, among other trauma focused settings. Natalia has conducted and presented qualitative research focusing on the importance of cultural humility when effectively working with individuals who have experienced trauma. Natalia has developed and teaches a six-week course for white aspiring allies, focusing on cognitive behavioral approaches to uncover and challenge biased automatic thoughts. Natalia facilitates trainings, consults, and participates as a reviewer for ongoing research, assisting teachers, professors, and institutions, within the intersections of topics mentioned above. Natalia travels nationally as an educator for guest lectures, continuing education for professional development and as a graduate professor, as it pertains to ethical practices and the intersections between trauma focused practices and cultural humility. Natalia is a strong advocate for anti-oppression, and access to education and mental health resources pertaining to marginalized groups such as LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and immigrant individuals. One of Natalia’s life guiding quotes “do the best you can, until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better,” by Dr. Maya Angelou, is intrinsically embedded in the way Natalia navigates and influences the spaces that she is a part of.