President's Message — Daniel Hermosillo, LMFT

Embrace the Hope

The SFV-CAMFT President and Board Members are proud to celebrate our nation's 249th birthday this July. Reflecting on the opportunities this great country has provided me and my family, I am especially grateful as a child of undocumented immigrants from Mexico. My parents ensured that my siblings and I received a quality education here, in the San Fernando Valley. At 17, I chose to serve by joining the California Army National Guard, a decision that changed my life profoundly for the better. I gained new skills, connected with fellow Americans from all over the nation, and served dutifully through two overseas tours. As a veteran, first-generation American, and LMFT, I recognize that our country is not perfect, but I cherish the privilege of calling it home and having you as peers.

Amidst our celebrations, we must acknowledge the political unrest affecting many Los Angeles residents. Issues such as ICE raids impact our daily lives, work, and community identity, as I personally experienced the fear of deportation during my childhood due to my parents’ legal status. So for those of us that are currently troubled, I empathize. Despite these challenges, we, as members of the SFV-CAMFT, have the unique privilege of fostering emotional and psychological healing, enabling us to make a meaningful impact in our community regardless of political, social, or economic differences.

At this time, I would like to encourage all members and even visitors to reorient themselves to what matters to you! We can do that by reconnecting with what we find joy in, our intimate relationships, what connects us to others outside of our intimate circles, and the things that give us a higher calling. We can also utilize the strengths we have developed through our clinical practice, personal work, and lived experience.

I hope this message inspires you to embrace the hope and mission we hold as Marriage and Family Therapists. Go out, make a difference, and always rely on the support of our SFV-CAMFT chapter.

Daniel Hermosillo, MA, LMFT is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice, the Program Manager for the Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN), and the Senior Vice Commander (Vice President) of the VFW’s Post 3834. Daniel is a CBT certified therapist that is trained in somatic work and mindfulness interventions. He has experience working with couples, veterans, men, and teenage boys.