The Latinx Guide to Liberation

As a bilingual and bicultural therapist working with the Latinx community, I find The Latinx Guide to Liberation an essential read for anyone in the mental health field. Vanessa Pezo provides a powerful historical context for the deep wounds our community has endured, wounds we are still trying to understand and heal from today.This book offers critical psychoeducation on trauma, exploring the impact of colonization and providing insights into the diverse cultural beliefs across Latin American countries. It sheds light on the values central to our community while also challenging the limiting, often harmful, Western mental health ideologies. Pezo does an incredible job of breaking down complex trauma concepts in ways that are both accessible and relatable, using real-life examples to help us better support our client’s well-being.The reflections included throughout invite us to engage deeply with the material, fostering curiosity and integration of new knowledge. What stands out is how Pezo names the challenges of straddling two cultures, often with opposing values and expectations, and the emotional toll it takes. This book makes me feel seen, understood, and valued as a member of the Latinx community.The Latinx Guide to Liberation is not just a book; it’s a much-needed manual for clinicians seeking a foundational understanding of working with Latinx individuals in mental health. Vanessa, thank you for giving voice to our collective experience and normalizing our upbringing with clarity and compassion.

Vanessa Pezo, LCSW is a Latina trauma therapist based in Long Beach, CA. She works from an anti-oppressive lens using EMDR, Narrative Exposure, and culturally affirming practices to help diverse survivors of trauma find healing and recovery.