From Crisis to Connection: Mental Health as a Cultural Commitment Artwork

Truly Mental

This podcast has been created by Joe Smarro & Jesse Trevino and it is being provided by SolutionPoint+, a national training and consulting firm that specializes in cultivating mental wellness to maximize human capital and promote safety. They are two combat veteran marines, who have been on a shared journey as best friends for the last 20+ years. Joe and Jesse were both San Antonio Police officers for 15 and 10 years, respectively, and have started a training and consulting firm which is now their full-time endeavor. They have set out on a mission to change the culture of law enforcement in America by focusing on individual wellness. They hope to eradicate first responder suicide. Welcome to the podcast, please subscribe, share, and leave comments for them both. BeWell -

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Truly Mental

From Crisis to Connection: Mental Health as a Cultural Commitment

June 25, 2025 • Joe & Jesse • Season 4 • Episode 7

In this episode of Truly Mental, host Jesse Trevino speaks with Hector Ayala, CEO of Hispanic Community Counseling Services, about the importance of culturally responsive mental health care for Latino communities. They discuss the barriers to accessing mental health services, the stigma surrounding mental health, and the need for culturally competent care, especially among first responders. Hector shares his personal journey into the field and emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for healing, the role of community support, and the significance of self-compassion in the healing process. The conversation highlights the resilience of the Latino community and offers messages of hope for those struggling with mental health issues.

https://hccsphila.org/

Hector Ayala on LinkedIn

Episode Takeaways:

Culturally responsive care is essential for effective mental health support.
Many in the Latino community face barriers to accessing mental health services.
Stigma around mental health can prevent individuals from seeking help.
Creating safe spaces for healing is crucial in mental health care.
First responders often experience unique pressures that require cultural competence in care.
Building trust and relationships is key to successful treatment outcomes.
Healing is a journey that does not have to be faced alone.
Self-compassion is vital for both clients and providers in the mental health field.
Leadership in mental health requires empathy and understanding of personal struggles.
Resilience in the Latino community is rooted in cultural values and shared experiences.