“The hope that one day I will have a ‘Wellstone’ back home has become my biggest goal.”
Esther Sunchin
Esther Sunchin traveled from San Salvador, El Salvador to North Alabama this spring through the Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) Fellowship Program. She spent four weeks learning about the operations, development, and clinical services at WellStone – North Alabama’s mental healthcare leader.
The U.S. Department of State launched the YLAI Fellowship Program in 2015 to empower emerging young entrepreneurs and business and social leaders from Latin America, the Caribbean, Canada, and the United States. Participants pair with agencies in their same or similar fields to forge connections and build new skills in their areas of interest and influence.
Sunchin shadowed, interviewed, and worked alongside WellStone staff and leadership to gain insight on best practices in the world of nonprofit community mental healthcare. It is Sunchin’s mission to provide similar services and treatment to individuals in San Salvador and surrounding communities.
“I believe that as Wellstone continues to grow it will become a model for behavioral health centers across the U.S.”
Esther Sunchin
In San Salvador, Esther owns and manages a small private practice, FARFALLE Psicologia. Sunchin’s practice provides virtual and on-site therapy for groups and individuals. Sessions are offered below the market rate to help clients access these important services.
“I am impressed that WellStone is a nonprofit organization yet has so many programs to offer… the fact that you are helping as many people as you can and keeping the fees low for everyone. It’s amazing. No one is left behind,” said Sunchin. “I believe that as Wellstone continues to grow it will become a model for behavioral health centers across the U.S.”
She mentions how wonderful it is that state and local governments have provided funds to support the implementation of many of these programs, including crisis care.
Leaving WellStone, Esther feels better equipped to employ a group therapy framework at her practice, adjust financial strategies, manage team dynamics, and lead with courage and innovation.
“I thought this kind of organization was just an illusion or a dream, but coming here, it showed me that everything is possible. It can take time, but that doesn’t mean that things can’t get done. This visit gives me the energy I needed to keep on going no matter what,” said Sunchin. “The hope that one day I will have a ‘Wellstone’ back home has become my biggest goal.”
WellStone is committed to expanding access to care for everyone in our service areas. Thank you, Esther, for your visit.
To learn more about the YLAI Fellowship Program, visit this website.