Ep. 24 - Breaking the Stigma: Mental Health and Vulnerability for Hispanic Men with Leonardo Aguilar, LMHC

The Holistic Counselor

Welcome Fearfully and Wonderfully Made Humans!

In today’s episode, Diana dives deep into a conversation with Leonardo Aguilar, LMHC, a bilingual therapist who has over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, families, and men. The discussion focuses on the unique mental health challenges Hispanic men face, the influence of cultural expectations, and the role of faith in healing.

Key Topics Covered:

•Cultural Expectations & Machismo: Leonardo discusses how cultural expectations and stereotypes affect Hispanic men, particularly regarding vulnerability, mental health, and seeking therapy.

•The Role of Faith: Leonardo emphasizes the integration of faith in the therapeutic process and how churches can support men in addressing mental health issues.

•Machismo vs. Vulnerability: A powerful exploration of how machismo can prevent men from seeking help and how embracing vulnerability can strengthen their relationships and mental health.

•Navigating the Church and Mental Health: Diana and Leonardo touch on how mental health is discussed in Hispanic churches and the stigma often associated with it.

•Immigrant Experience: Leonardo shares his personal journey as an immigrant from Uruguay and the challenges he faced growing up in a different culture while attending public schools in Miami.

•Practical Advice for Men Seeking Therapy: Tips on finding culturally competent, affordable mental health care and how to take the first step toward getting help.

Resources Mentioned:

1.A Mindful Process Therapy (Leonardo Aguilar’s Practice)

Website: https://www.amindfulprocesstherapy.com/

Contact: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

2. Open Path Collective:

A directory for affordable therapy services.

Website: openpathcollective.org

3.Psychology Today Directory:

Find licensed therapists that match your specific needs (e.g., Christian, Hispanic, male, etc.). Website: psychologytoday.com

4.Books Mentioned:

No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz (recommended by Diana in her practice)

Final Thoughts:

Leonardo encourages listeners to remember that seeking therapy is a sign of strength, not weakness, and emphasizes the importance of finding the right support, whether through faith-based therapy or culturally aligned services.

Connect with Leonardo Aguilar:

Website: amindfulprocesstherapy.com

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

Stay Connected with Diana:

Website: throughthevalleytherapy.com

Instagram: @throughthevalleytherapy

Closing:

“Trust in the Lord, guard your heart, and renew your mind.” — Diana S. Rice

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