Meet Our Students | School of Behavioral Health

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Systems, Families, & Couples PhD

The PhD in Systems, Families, and Couples provides exceptional training to become a researcher. Every faculty member supports my research passion, even when it's unrelated to their own body of research. Although I have been a practicing clinician and MFT educator for may years, this program is expanding my knowledge about clinical work, while thoroughly equipping me to research it. I have become empowered to not only serve clients and MFT students better, but also to contribute to the growth of the field.

Kelly Shearer

Clinical Psychology PsyD

My experience at Loma Linda University has been transformative. The professors are knowledgeable, passionate, and supportive. Their enthusiasm for their work has been infectious and their encouragement and mentorship has been crucial to my professional development. The program, including a robust array of training experiences, has equipped me to be a well-rounded, culturally sensitive, and competent clinical psychologist.

Amanda Feigin

Master of Social Work (Advanced Standing)

What I admire most about the MSW program at Loma Linda University is its strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion. The program's focus on cultural competency has equipped me with the knowledge to effectively work with diverse populations in various social work settings. I am grateful to have gained essential skills, both for direct practice with clients and for roles that advocate for social justice.

Christina Joy Apostol

Child Life Specialist MS

The Child Life Specialist MS program at Loma Linda University has enriched me with more than academic knowledge alone—it's given me a strong foundation of clinical skills, mentorship, and a sense of community. I have grown in ways I wouldn't have imagined, both professionally and personally. Most of all, I've been challenged to stretch beyond my comfort zone, reflect deeply, and grow into a more intentional and prepared professional. This program has provided the space for me to turn my passion into a profession—where play, advocacy, and healing come together.

Jasleen Kaur

Marital & Family Therapy MS (On-Campus)

Being a part of the Marital and Family Therapy MS program at Loma Linda University has been an incredibly transformative and rewarding experience. The program offers an opportunity to develop a systemic understanding of human behavior and relational dynamics. The supportive community and collaborative learning environment have been invaluable, fostering personal growth and deepening my understanding of myself as both a clinician and an individual.

Cherice Alce

Master of Social Work (On-Campus)

The Loma Linda University MSW program with Play Therapy Certificate has challenged me in new ways, significantly supporting my professional development while providing an incredibly supportive environment, including faculty and staff, my cohort, and alumni. This experience, alongside the invaluable knowledge from my courses and faculty, is precisely what I need to pursue my passion: helping children develop the skills for a brighter future.

Nikkole Harris

Clinical Psychology PhD

I am truly grateful to be part of the Clinical Psychology PhD program at Loma Linda University. The faculty genuinely want to see the students succeed and I feel genuinely cared for. My experience thus far has been a dream come true.

Diana Marin, MA

Doctor of Marital & Family Therapy

I began my journey at Loma Linda University in the Marital and Family Therapy MS program and have continued my academic growth in the DMFT program. The DMFT program has allowed me to grow in my professional and academic development in ways I never knew possible. Each student has the opportunity to work creatively towards their passions. This is made possible by the amazingly supportive faculty.

Miranda Gustuson

Counseling MS

This program helped me recognize my passion for serving a community affected by stigma and access to quality mental health services. I continue to grow as a psychotherapist with various individuals who have the same passion as I do. I'm thankful for these experiences and eager to further my development as we serve one another. Coming to Loma Linda University reminds me never to allow any obstacles to come between me and my purpose in life.

Andrew Guerrero

Master of Social Work (Online)

My experience at Loma Linda University has been so meaningful. All of the professors in the MSW program are both knowledgeable educators and practicing clinical social workers who bring real-world experience into every class. Their support has made such a huge difference in my learning. I know LLU's academic rigor and clinical focus will provide me with a strong foundation that will carry over into my future career in the social work field. I am incredibly proud to be a student at LLU and part of such an amazing community.

Jeanie Wong

Doctor of Social Work (Clinical Leadership)

Loma Linda University's DSW program has significantly advanced my career as a scholar, practitioner, and leader. The program's emphasis on applied scholarship, clinical leadership, and social justice has positioned me to contribute to the advancement of social work practice in a diverse and global environment.

Saira Din

Drug & Alcohol Counseling Certificate

Through collaboration and education from the Drug and Alcohol Counseling Certificate program, I've learned to factor in the varying aspects of substance use disorders in helping clients and members of their relational systems. Both faculty and fellow students are compassionate in their roles of walking with clients through the recovery process.

Geraldine Pirdy

Play Therapy Certificate

The Play Therapy Certificate program at Loma Linda University helped me understand how to work with children and families. As an early childhood educator, I wanted to see how theories of play and play therapy intersected, and how play could support children going through difficult times in their lives. LLU's program enhanced my understanding of children, youth, and behavioral health, and how to guide young ones toward wholeness.

Anne Leah D. Guía

Counseling MS with Marital & Family Therapy MS with Drug & Alcohol Counseling Certificate

The dual Counseling MS and MFT MS program has allowed me to grow as a person and professionally. This program emphasizes personal exploration and reflection while acquiring experience in the field, which makes it a unique and complete experience as a therapist. I'm grateful for the help and guidance I've received from caring faculty who are genuinely dedicated to help students succeed. Through this program I've met many important people that I won’t forget, including professors, staff, and colleagues who've created a supportive environment for me during this time at Loma Linda University.

Genova I. Hernandez Lizardo

Marital & Family Therapy MS (Online)

My time at Loma Linda University has been transformative, and the journey into behavioral health has been challenging in the best of ways. My professors' support allowed me to be vulnerable and grow. I'm grateful for the lasting support, rigorous education, and clinical experience that have shaped my professional path.

Armin Tchami