In more ways than one, APA’s new president Cynthia de las Fuentes, PhD, is the clear, passionate voice that psychology and humanity needs right now.
de las Fuentes, a bilingual counseling psychologist who also studied voice performance from childhood through her graduate school years—performing in her first opera at age 14—speaks about psychology’s potential in a way that would stir and resonate with anyone in need of more resolve, faith, and hope.
“Psychology touches every aspect of humanity and the societies and cultures we inhabit,” says de las Fuentes, who has an independent practice in Austin, Texas, and a long history of service to APA and pro bono work to benefit the Latinx immigrant community. “We are needed in every room at every table: from industry to international relations, in the classroom and the therapy room, from health care to government settings, to research and the entertainment industry. I can’t think of a place where we aren’t needed, but where we are most needed is in all the areas that work to relieve human suffering.” Learn more about her background and perspectives, in her own words:
Most treasured memory: Bringing each of my adopted daughters home. The oldest was 9 years old at the time and then 4 years later, [we brought home] her 10-month-old sister. They are now 34 and 21 years old and I couldn’t be prouder of the women they have become.
Why she chose psychology: Although he only had a third-grade education, my maternal grandfather was fond of the field and talked about it frequently. Then I took an AP Psychology class in high school, and I was convinced it could satisfy both my intellectual curiosity and desire to be helpful.
What was expected of her growing up: Hah! How much space do I have? As the oldest daughter in a Mexican American family, I was expected to always be dutiful and helpful, never question the authority of my elders or teachers, always appear well groomed, excel as a student, earn a minimum of a bachelor’s degree, and become a wife and mother. Higher education and motherhood, check!
Biggest obstacle she’s overcome: Public speaking. While I don’t get dizzy, lightheaded, and hyperventilate anymore, I’m still working on it. I have a feeling that this year will provide me with many opportunities for desensitization.
In her downtime: I spend time with family and friends, and cooking, and I average about three books per month. A pandemic guilty pleasure that has lasted is watching Korean dramas. I recommend starting with The Extraordinary Attorney Woo.
Best advice she’s gotten: “Focus on your breath,” a voice instructor once told me, and I have found that advice works for many different circumstances. “Take care of your teeth,” said all the old people in my family.
Leader she admires: Dr. Melba J. T. Vasquez, the 2011 APA president. She was our first Latina president, my practicum supervisor, and my dissertation cochair. She has left her fingerprints indelibly all over my career, and we’ve become cherished friends.
What sparks hope: When we recognize suffering and wish to relieve that suffering, we are experiencing one of the superpowers of our humanity: compassion. Practicing compassion improves our lives, fuels positive change in societies, and supports our most vulnerable. Our ability to experience and act on compassion in service of each other and our planet gives me hope.
