Dr. Ric Torres

Hello, Student! I understand the experience of a college student. I have my lived experience as a first-generation college student, and I understand the challenges facing students in today's universities - it is hard to be a student these days!

A little bit about me: I have a bachelor's degree in psychology, and a doctorate in counseling psychology. I am Latino/Latinx, a person of color (BIPOC), and a first-generation college student. College had its rough patches. In fact, I almost quit college my junior year because I could not decide on a major. I also had anxiety! As a son of immigrant parents with limited formal schooling, my parents were not well-equipped to help me figure it out. I felt alone as a student.

Aside from my experience as a former student, I devoted the first half of my career to working with students, so I understand the student experience very well. I have provided counseling to students at the following universities: New Mexico State University, University of San Diego, University of Texas at El Paso, UC Berkeley, UCLA, University of Washington, and Cornell University.

I have experience working with both community college and university students; with both traditional and non-traditional students; and with students of diverse cultural backgrounds. I have a passion for working with students who identify with marginalized communities; students who identify as first-generation college students; and students of color (BIPOC). I also enjoy working with common mental health problems, like depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, trauma, family issues, multicultural concerns (e.g., ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, etc), and adjustment issues.

In my experience, thriving on a campus requires the support of many people. I am here to be one of those people for you! With warmth, I welcome the opportunity to connect with you. - Dr. Torres.