Latino Behavioral Health Services (LBHS) and the University of Utah have partnered to address mental health disparities in West Valley City’s Latino population. The collaboration targets unique challenges including economic hardship, immigration-related stress, and cultural stigma around mental health care, which complicate access to culturally competent services.
The relationship grew from initial research and data-sharing to identify mental health needs in West Valley City’s Latino communities, ultimately developing programs addressing identified gaps. Javier Alegre, executive director of LBHS, credited the University of Utah with helping expand reach and improve care quality. “This partnership has led to innovative programs that combine clinical interventions with culturally grounded peer support, ensuring care is both effective and culturally appropriate.”
A cornerstone of the collaboration is expansion of peer-led support groups offered in both Spanish and English, addressing the language barrier that often prevents help-seeking. The University of Utah provides training and clinical supervision to ensure peer mentors deliver high-quality care. Through the U’s Huntsman Mental Health Institute, LBHS has expanded access to bilingual, affordable mental health services and helps individuals navigate health insurance options.
The organizations are responding to increasing demand by expanding telehealth services to reach remote and underserved areas, and developing targeted programs addressing youth mental health challenges. “Many individuals who once struggled in isolation have found hope and healing through LBHS’s peer support programs and the clinical resources provided by the University of Utah,” the partnership demonstrates that collective action strengthens community health.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://uofuhealth.utah.edu/community/news/2025/03/latino-behavioral-health-and-university-of-utah-collaborating-improve-mental