Therapeutic Style

I have over 15 years of experience working with adults experiencing anxiety, depression/bipolar disorders, relational issues, trauma, psychological disabilities, GBLT, diversity & women's concerns.

I spent my first five years as a therapist providing counseling to parents, children and adolescents. The following ten years were dedicated to teaching & conducting therapy with university students and adult populations. I recognize how crucial it is to differentiate transitional issues from psychological disorders, especially in college students, to ensure appropriate treatment.

Training 

•  2-year Practicum at    Vanderbilt University 

• Internship at the University       of California Santa Barbara

•  Extensive training in                Multicultural Therapy  

Research   

Dr. Mentes attended Tennessee State University and was granted a Biomedical Research Scholarship from the National Institute of Health (NIH-MBRS).  

She conducted health disparities and psychological research, presented findings at conferences throughout the United States and Puerto Rico and published several papers in well established journals.

Much of her research was dedicated to working with underserved populations in collaboration with Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science.

Local Service 

Served as President: Santa Barbara County Psychological Association  

Served as Diveristy Liaison to CPA: Santa Barbara County Psychological Association 

Current Board Member: California Psychological Association's Division 5 (RxP) 

Current Board Member: Santa Barbara Youth Project

Post-Doctoral Masters in Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology         * Coursework Completed                * Seeking Residency 

Local Teaching 

Dr. Mentes served as Core Faculty at Antioch University, as well as Pacifica Graduate Institute.  She was an Adjunct Faculty at the Santa Barbara Graduate Institute/CCSP-SB.

Dr. Mentes served as Student Services Coordinator for Diversity at Pacifica Graduate Institute and was appointed Warsh Chair of Social Justice, Reconciliation, and Diversity.

She loves teaching and continues to do so as an adjunt professor.