29 Jan, 2025
The Summit was attended by over 500 participants who received up-to-date information from leaders and experts in the field of youth mental health. The primary objective was to promote behavioral health and emotional, social, and mental well-being for children and adolescents in Puerto Rico. ---
More than 500 participants attended the Second Youth Mental Health Summit, where they received updated information from leading experts in the field of youth mental health. The goal? To promote behavioral health and the emotional, social, and mental well-being of children and adolescents in Puerto Rico.
The Second Youth Mental Health Summit was not just an event—it was the continuation of a movement seeking to redefine how our society understands, prioritizes, and supports the emotional well-being of our children and adolescents.
Fields of Joy Foundation gathered over 500 professionals, including social workers, parents, psychologists, neuropsychologists, child and adolescent psychiatrists, educators, counselors, and therapists, for a day dedicated to transforming access to and knowledge about youth mental health in Puerto Rico.
From the early morning, Vivo Beach Club became a space filled with knowledge, connection, and commitment. The hallways buzzed with the energy of hundreds of people united by a common purpose: to create a future where the mental health of our youth is treated with the priority and urgency it deserves.
A Movement That Keeps Growing
The Second Youth Mental Health Summit was not just an event—it was the continuation of a movement seeking to redefine how our society understands, prioritizes, and supports the emotional well-being of our children and adolescents.
This year, we were honored to host 16 distinguished mental health professionals, who covered a wide range of critical topics, from substance use disorders to functional diversity in schools and early detection of neurodevelopmental disorders.
A Day of Learning and Reflection
The event kicked off with Dr. Luisa Collazo, a clinical psychologist, who delivered a powerful talk on Compassionate Communication. She reminded us that every conversation with a young person is an opportunity to build bridges of understanding and support. Her message resonated deeply: the way we talk to our youth today shapes how they will talk to themselves tomorrow.
Throughout the day, experts such as Dr. Niretzy Morales, Dr. Yassira Cedano, and Dr. Rafael Oliveras-Rentas shared invaluable knowledge on pressing issues like substance use disorders, inclusive school models, and early identification of neurodevelopmental challenges.
Dr. Joycette Aponte provided an insightful discussion on the role of schools in suicide prevention, emphasizing the responsibility not only to prevent tragedies but to cultivate hope.
Dr. Javier Méndez shed light on parenting paradigms and guided attendees on the importance of positive parenting strategies, while Dr. Jessica Talavera introduced the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy model for children and adolescents.
The summit also explored the crucial role of technology in youth mental health. Dr. Yamil A. Ortiz Ortiz and Dr. Andrés Cruz took us through the complex digital landscape, equipping us with practical tools to turn technological challenges into opportunities for growth and connection.
The Power of Networking
Between sessions, something equally powerful happened: meaningful connections. Professionals from different fields exchanged experiences, formed alliances, and built support networks that continue to amplify their positive impact.
Mental health is not a luxury—it is a fundamental right. Every summit participant left with updated knowledge, practical tools, and, most importantly, a renewed sense of purpose.
A Resounding Success & What’s Next
The overwhelming success of this second edition confirms the importance of these spaces. It motivates us to keep pushing forward, ensuring that every young person has access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
Testimonials: The Voices of Change
The impact of the Second Youth Mental Health Summit was evident in the participant feedback. According to our Satisfaction Survey, the event received an outstanding 96% approval rating.
Here’s what some attendees had to say:
“An enriching experience that motivated us to take immediate action in our communities.”
“The topics were relevant and applicable—I left with clear tools for my daily practice.”
“The quality of the speakers was impressive. I gained practical strategies that I will apply immediately in my work.”
“This event inspired me to speak more openly about mental health in my social and professional circles.”
Bigger & Better: The Third Youth Mental Health Summit Is Coming!
With great excitement, we officially announce that the Third Youth Mental Health Summit will take place on October 8, 2025.
This next edition will be even more ambitious, building upon the solid foundation we have established. As we prepare, one thing remains clear: the transformation of youth mental health is an ongoing mission that requires all of us.
Every conversation we start, every stigma we break, and every life we touch moves us closer to our vision of a Puerto Rico where mental health is valued just as much as physical health.
Though the Second Youth Mental Health Summit has come to an end, its impact continues to ripple through every school, every home, and every community.
We extend our deepest gratitude to every participant who, as a true “agent of change“, has embraced and shared our message.
The movement has begun, and together, we will keep it going.
Explore the Agenda of the Second Youth Mental Health Summit – October 2024 Edition
Below, we present the profiles of the speakers who participated in the second edition:
SPEAKER PROFILES
Dr. Luisa Collazo holds a Ph.D. in Psychology with an emphasis on School-Evolutionary Psychology and a Master’s in Psychology with a specialization in Social-Community Psychology from the University of Puerto Rico. She also has a postdoctoral certification in trauma and psychosocial stabilization for children and adolescents from the University of Stuttgart.
As the founder of Redes del Desarrollo (2015), Dr. Collazo has dedicated her career to providing health and education services for children and adolescents, emphasizing independence and family support. She is an active member of Pedagogía de Emergencia Puerto Rico and Hogar Ruth and currently maintains a private practice in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
With over 15 years of experience in clinical psychology, Dr. Gilda Rodríguez-Díaz serves as the Director of the PsyD Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology at Albizu University in Miami and co-founder of the Center for Trauma, Stress, and Health (CTSH). She has led evidence-based interventions to support children, women, and families affected by sexual violence and trauma. In recent years, she has played a key role in implementing post-disaster mental health interventions in Puerto Rico.
Dr. Rodríguez-Díaz has built strong collaborations with community organizations in Puerto Rico, leading capacity-building projects in pediatric care and trauma-informed practices. In 2017, she was awarded the Visionary Voice Award for her outstanding work in combating sexual violence. She is a member of the Florida Psychological Association and the American Psychological Association (APA).
Dr. Niretzy Morales Casañas holds a PsyD in Clinical Psychology from Carlos Albizu University, with specializations in Couples and Family Therapy and Forensic Psychology.
As a dedicated mental health professional, Dr. Morales leads the Dr. Morales Casañas Psychological Services Clinic, where she incorporates cutting-edge therapeutic models, such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). She continues her education in family and couples therapy by collaborating with international centers like the Emotionally Focused Step-by-Step Model, developed by Dr. Sue Johnson, Director of the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT).
Dr. Juan A. Nazario-Serrano holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Albizu University and certifications in Substance Use Disorders and Addiction Counseling. With over 20 years of experience, he has published in numerous scientific journals and has been recognized for his research on sexual diversity, psychopathology, and co-occurring disorders.
He currently serves as a professor and collaborator at the Community Research Initiative (ICI), making significant contributions to mental health in Puerto Rico.
With an outstanding academic career, Dr. Yari Marrero serves as the Assistant Dean of Licensing and Accreditation at Universidad Central del Caribe. She holds a Master of Science in Health Sciences with a specialization in Substance Abuse Counseling.
Dr. Marrero has led clinical research projects and plays a key role in the university’s efforts to advance mental health program accreditation. With nearly two decades of experience, she has been instrumental in developing and evaluating psychological support programs.
Dr. Rafael Oliveras-Rentas is a Pediatric Neuropsychologist with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and a postdoctoral specialization in Pediatric Neuropsychology and Autism Spectrum Disorders. He has worked at Children’s National Medical Center & George Washington University in Washington, D.C. and is an active member of the National Academy of Neuropsychology, Hispanic Neuropsychological Society, American Academy of Pediatric Neuropsychology, and the International Society for Autism Research.
In addition to his private practice in Puerto Rico, he serves as an Assistant Professor at Ponce Health Sciences University.
Dr. Ángel Martínez is a board-certified psychiatrist in Child Psychiatry, Adult Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. He is the President of Centralis Med LLC and the Puerto Rico Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
With a broad trajectory in mental health, he has led institutions in both Puerto Rico and Florida, focusing on community mental health and adolescent well-being. He currently serves as the Medical Director of First Hospital Panamericano.
Dr. Yassira Cedano holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and has seven years of experience teaching clinical psychology and clinical social work at universities in Puerto Rico. Her expertise includes providing therapeutic services and assessments for children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders.
Currently, she serves as a professor at Ponce Health Sciences University and is a leading advocate for autism education and awareness.
With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Joycette Aponte has been a key figure in the mental health field, working closely with youth and families in Puerto Rico. She is currently a Clinical Supervisor and Internship Director at the Albizu Clinic in San Juan, mentoring and guiding future psychologists in their professional development.
Dr. Aponte holds a Bachelor’s in Drama and Communications from Loyola University, a Master’s in Educational Theatre from New York University, and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. She also maintains a private practice specializing in adolescent and adult mental health.
Dr. Yamil A. Ortiz Ortiz is a distinguished academic with a bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Puerto Rico in Humacao and a Ph.D. in Academic and Investigative Psychology from the Río Piedras Campus of UPR. His research focuses on the impact of emerging technologies—such as video games, social media, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence—on mental health, social relationships, and overall well-being.
Currently, he coordinates the mentorship program at the Center for Social Research and is leading the creation of the Laboratory for the Investigation of Emerging Technologies (LITE-LAB) at UPR Río Piedras, reinforcing his commitment to innovation in mental health and technology.
Dr. Andrés Alonso Cruz Santos is a psychologist with a strong academic background, holding a Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Puerto Rico in Cayey, a Master’s in School Psychology, and a Ph.D. in Psychology with a specialization in Consulting, Research, and Teaching from Carlos Albizu University.
As an assistant professor at Albizu University, he teaches courses such as Cyberpsychology, Physiological Psychology, Neuropsychology, and Human Development. Additionally, he is the President of Reconstruyendo LLC, a mental health organization that provides innovative psychological services in Puerto Rico.
Dr. Arlene Vélez is a recognized expert in psychology and education, with 19 years of academic experience. She holds a B.S. in Secondary Science Education from the University of Puerto Rico – Río Piedras, an M.S. in Counseling and Guidance from Texas A&M University – Kingsville, and a Ph.D. in Psychology with a specialization in Counseling Psychology from Purdue University.
A pioneer in Puerto Rico, she developed the first Cyberpsychology program and co-created the Intercultural Competency course at Albizu University, where she currently leads undergraduate studies.
Dr. Javier I. Méndez Lozada earned his degrees from the University of Puerto Rico in Cayey and Ana G. Méndez University, where he completed a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology. Throughout his career, he has specialized in working with vulnerable populations, crime victims, and therapy for children, adolescents, and adults.
Currently, he is a psychology professor at Ana G. Méndez University and serves as President of Reconstruyendo LLC, a comprehensive mental health clinic based in Caguas, Puerto Rico.
Dr. Jessika Talavera is a clinical psychologist with a Ph.D. from Carlos Albizu University in San Juan. Her areas of expertise include evidence-based psychotherapies, trauma treatment, insomnia management, chronic pain therapy, and severe mental health conditions.
She has led psychotherapy programs in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. In 2023, she founded Banditas de Salud Mental, an initiative providing emotional support tools for couples, children, and adolescents, standing out for its innovative approach to mental well-being.
Dr. Elisa Lebrón is a school psychologist with 15 years of experience in evaluating children, adolescents, and young adults. She holds a B.S. in Biology from the University of Puerto Rico – Mayagüez and a Ph.D. in School Psychology from the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico.
She currently serves as a faculty member and internship supervisor at Albizu University, where she teaches courses such as Cognitive and Academic Assessment, Child Psychopathology, and School Psychology Practice, helping train the next generation of psychologists in Puerto Rico.
Dr. Héctor Hernández-Loubriel is an Associate Professor and Internship and Practicum Coordinator in School Psychology at Albizu University. He holds a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the Interamerican University and a Graduate Certificate in Autism Studies.
Dr. Hernández has been a key leader in school psychology, having served as Vice President of the Puerto Rico Association of School Psychology (APEP) in 2021 and as President-Elect of the association in 2022. His commitment to education and mental health promotion is a cornerstone of his career, as he continues to train and mentor future psychologists in Puerto Rico.
