As a bilingual, bicultural first-generation Dominican American I understand the barriers that people in the Latinx community face in accessing mental health. Like needing a service but the fear that no one there will speak the same language as you or look like you or understand your culture. It is an all-consuming fear that I am all too familiar with in my personal and professional life. As a Latina woman and MSW student it is my honor to help mitigate those fears in the Latinx community. By adhering to the National Assocation of Social Workers Code of Ethics and honoring client's rights to self-determination while actively challenging social justice issues. I am excited for the opportunity to be part of The Center for Excellence, where I will be able to deepen my skills and understanding of implementing culturally adaptive approaches in my practice.