Camila Velez

Camila is pursuing a Ph.D. in Mental Health at McGill University under the mentorship of Dr. Srividya Iyer (primary supervisor) and Dr. Gina Dimitropoulos. She is a first-generation Latina immigrant, a mother, and a psychotherapist. She has a master’s degree in counselling psychology and has worked as a Wellness Consultant-Academic Associate at McGill and as a psychotherapist at Concordia. With seven years of experience in clinical practice, counselling, psychoeducation, and service design for post-secondary students, Camila has honed her expertise in systemic, anti-oppressive, strength-based, trauma-informed, and multicultural approaches, focusing on supporting marginalized student communities. She has spearheaded and contributed to diverse research projects on mental health and wellness interventions in post-secondary settings, resulting in meaningful improvements in service provision driven by the voices of youth and participants.

Camila's doctoral research centers on a phenomenological and participatory study exploring the lived experiences of immigrant students, mental health professionals, and service managers involved in the mental health care of immigrant students across universities in Quebec and Alberta. Her research aims to transform and contribute to developing equitable, immigrant-youth-friendly, and high-quality university-based mental health services. The Doctoral Research Award from the CIHR generously supports Camila's research. Lastly, she experiences joy when she spends time with family and friends, makes arts and crafts, goes on long walks, and dances to her favourite songs.