Dr. Veronica Viesca

Dr. Veronica Viesca, a Southern California native, is a distinguished mental health professional, educator, and researcher with a profound commitment to advancing the field of Marriage and Family Therapy. As a devoted scholar and practitioner, Veronica’s extensive background in academia, clinical supervision, and professional leadership has positioned her as a valuable asset to the nonprofit sector.

Veronica earned her Masters of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of San Diego, followed by a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy from Loma Linda University. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor of Psychology in the Graduate School of Education and Psychology at Pepperdine University, Veronica brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her academic role. Prior to her tenure at Pepperdine, she served as Assistant Professor and Program Director of COAMFTE-accredited Family Therapy Programs at Texas Woman’s University.

As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board Approved Supervisor in California, Texas, and Washington, Veronica holds a national approved supervisor designation from the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). Her dedication to advancing the profession is evident in her role as a mentor, providing clinical supervision since 2013 and offering AAMFT supervision mentor training for clinical supervisors since 2016.

Veronica’s research endeavors focus on Biopsychosocial-spiritual influences on health behaviors, the Biobehavioral Family Model, relational distress, metabolic disorders and longevity/health span, Brain injury, emotional expression and relationship distress, couple therapy supervision, emotion-focused couple therapy (EFT), and Telehealth. Her scholarly contributions have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Loma Linda University Research Excellence Award, the Family Process Institute New Writers Fellowship, and the Texas Woman’s University Research Enhancement Award.

Actively engaged in professional organizations, Veronica has served as a member and chair of the AAMFT Elections Council and as a member of the AAMFT Component Evaluation Committee. Beyond her academic and professional contributions, she enriches the field through participation in the Radical Therapist Podcast as a Radical Roundtable contributor and as a practice development and business consultant for mental health professionals.

In 2023, Veronica harnessed her extensive knowledge in research, clinical practice, and business acumen to establish two impactful ventures: a California non-profit, The Center for Mental Health Excellence, and a national practice, The Institute for Relational Well-being. These initiatives reflect her unwavering commitment to enhancing mental health services and therapist training on both local and national scales.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Veronica finds joy in spending leisure time outdoors with her family, engaging in activities such as scuba diving, cooking, and exploring new destinations through travel. Veronica Viesca’s multifaceted expertise, dedication to advancing the mental health field, and passion for community well-being make her an exceptional addition to Th Board of Directors.

Brian Milholland

Brian Milholland, a distinguished addition to our Board of Directors, stands at the intersection of innovation, sustainable energy, and compassionate leadership. His remarkable journey, including lobbying work in California for the advancement of solar energy and dedicated service in the 82nd Airborne Division, reflects a commitment to positive change that now extends to our nonprofit mental health practice.

Brian’s entry into the dynamic field of solar energy was fueled by a passion for environmental sustainability, coupled with the discipline instilled during his military service. Serving in the 82nd Airborne Division, Brian developed a keen sense of strategic thinking and leadership that would later become instrumental in his advocacy efforts and nonprofit contributions.

In addition to his advocacy work, Brian dedicated his time and expertise to Twende Solar, a nonprofit organization committed to bringing solar solutions to underserved communities. Serving on the board, he played a crucial role in steering the organization’s mission towards impactful projects that harnessed solar energy to address energy poverty. His leadership not only contributed to the success of Twende Solar but also showcased his commitment to using technology as a force for social good.

Brian’s journey into the nonprofit sector didn’t end with Twende Solar. Now, as a vital member of our Board of Directors, he brings his extensive experience, strategic vision, and commitment to excellence to our nonprofit mental health practice. His unique perspective enriches our approach to mental health advocacy.

In welcoming Brian Milholland to our Board of Directors, we celebrate not only his individual success but also the invaluable experience and insights. His presence serves as a driving force for continued growth, innovation, and positive change in our collective pursuit of a brighter, more sustainable future.