Master's student awarded admittance into AAMFT Minority Fellowship Program

Monday, November 27, 2023

Media Contact: Kirsi McDowell | Senior Communications Specialist | 405-744-9347 | kirsi@okstate.edu

Marriage and family therapy student Harmony Nelson was recently accepted into the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy Minority Youth Fellowship Program. 

The yearlong program provides professional development, training and mentorships to masters-level students intending to serve racially and ethnically diverse populations of teens and young adults to reduce health care disparities and improve outcomes within these populations, according to the AAMFT Minority Fellowship website.

Nelson said she is honored and excited to be a part of this year’s fellowship.

“My professional goals directly align with the mission of the AAMFT Minority Fellowship Program, which is to provide mental health services to marginalized, underrepresented populations,” she said. 

The fellowship features several events focused on cultivating the next generation of diverse and culturally competent counselors and therapists, including a national conference, a weeklong training program in November and a leadership symposium in March. Upon completing the fellowship, participants must spend two years working with underserved teens and young adults, a commitment that Nelson embraces.

“I look forward to learning, growing and contributing to the program's mission,” Nelson said. “Being a part of this fellowship is a true privilege, and I am wholeheartedly committed to making the most of this opportunity.”

Although she recognizes she has much to learn, Nelson said she believes her studies in College of Education and Human Sciences’ marriage and family therapy program have prepared her well for the coming years. 

“The program's curriculum is designed to cultivate ethically responsible, culturally competent clinicians capable of addressing a broad spectrum of presenting issues with diverse client populations,” Nelson said. “I'm confident that the knowledge and skills I've gained through my coursework will be a valuable asset.”

Ultimately, Nelson hopes her time in the fellowship will help her take an active role in providing and improving mental health support in communities like hers. 

“I am deeply committed to this work on both a personal and professional level,” she said. “It's not just a career choice for me, it's a passion.”

Story By: Jessica Pearce | jessica.c.pearce@okstate.edu