Forensic Mental Health Counseling Graduate Champions Mental Health Reform Behind Bars

BRISTOL, R.I. – From the verdant landscapes of northwestern Georgia to the shell-laced coastlines of Rhode Island, Leslie Gutierrez’s journey – a narrative of resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of change – has brought her to the forefront of advocacy. A first-generation Mexican American and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipient, she contributes a distinct perspective to her work, using her passion for mental health counseling and the legal system to amplify the voices of marginalized communities, dismantle systemic injustices, and forge new pathways to empowerment and equality. Gutierrez is graduating this month with a Master’s in Forensic Mental Health Counseling. 

Gutierrez’s academic journey began at Berry College, a short drive from her hometown of Calhoun, Ga., where she delved into the complexities of psychology, fortified by minors in Spanish and applied behavior analysis. Yet, her path was not just academic; it was a testament to grit and ambition, buoyed by the prestigious Gate of Opportunity Scholarship, a beacon of hope for first-generation scholars like herself. This endowment enabled her to pursue her education through thousands of hours of dedicated work in athletics, the Office of Financial Aid, and Admissions, embodying her unwavering commitment to achieving her dreams.

Driven by a fervent support for criminal justice reform and mental health awareness, Gutierrez sought to shatter the silence surrounding mental health, particularly within minority communities. She said this wasn’t just a professional endeavor, but a deeply personal mission rooted in the fabric of her own community and experiences. Armed with her convictions, Gutierrez charted a bold trajectory, merging her passions into a single purpose – pursuing a Master’s in Forensic Mental Health Counseling. This decision led her to Roger Williams University, where she said she found not just an institution, but a sanctuary of encouragement and belonging.

Nearly 1,000 miles away from home, transitioning to RWU marked a new chapter for Gutierrez. Stepping onto campus for the first time on Accepted Students Day amid the warmth and camaraderie of the RWU community was a moment of profound affirmation that transcended geographical distance. Surrounded by peers and faculty, the foundation for meaningful connections and a transformative college experience were laid.

“What first introduced me to RWU was the Forensic Mental Health Counseling program, as it’s not too common in the nation. I also tend to thrive in smaller environments because they allow for more discussion and intentional relationships with my peers and professors, so RWU’s tight-knit community is a significant factor that differentiates it from other schools,” Gutierrez said. “But it was the kindness of everyone here, who were super helpful in navigating me through the graduate admissions process, that made me feel so at home and gave me the encouragement to move up here.”

As Gutierrez navigated her studies at RWU, she embraced the role of a Graduate Program Ambassador where she served as a guiding light for fellow students navigating the complexities of academia and career development. Her mission was simple yet profound: to pay forward the kindness and guidance she received as a new student, fostering a culture of mentorship and autonomy.

“I know this process can be very confusing, especially when you’re far from home and figuring it out on your own, so being a Graduate Program Ambassador has been a rewarding experience that’s allowed me to help incoming students by answering a lot of their questions,” she said.

In addition to her role as a Graduate Assistant with RWU’s Intercultural Center, Gutierrez has immersed herself in the world of correctional counseling as a mental health intern at MCI-Norfolk, a medium-security prison in Massachusetts. This year’s worth of hands-on experience allowed her to create positive change with people navigating the criminal justice system, helping them prioritize their mental well-being and fostering a sense of optimism amid challenging circumstances, she said. Through her dedication and empathy, Gutierrez became a catalyst for transformation, equipping individuals with the tools to reclaim their narratives and pursue paths of healing.

“Working in a correctional setting and promoting mental health psychology combines both my aspirations, allowing me to be a clinician within the legal system. Through this experience, I have been able to observe how counseling is done within a prison setting and how it leads to rehabilitation,” she said. “It has made me very passionate about working within the legal system after graduation.”

Looking ahead, Gutierrez said she plans to return to Georgia to become a licensed counselor and continue her focus on providing mental health services in prison settings. Through her advocacy and dedication, she is paving the way for a more compassionate and equitable approach to counseling and criminal justice reform, the powerful result when a student combines their passion with purpose.