Alicia Maestas (She/Her)

Hometown: Las Vegas, NV

Hello! I’m a Psy.D. student originally from Las Vegas, NV, who moved to San Diego to pursue my doctorate in psychology. Currently, I work as a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate in community mental health, supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds and addressing a range of mental health needs. This experience has deepened my commitment to serving underserved communities and inspired me to make a lasting impact in behavioral health.

My passion for health psychology stems from my dedication to integrated, holistic treatment. I value the collaborative approach it offers, allowing me to work alongside other health disciplines to provide comprehensive care that supports both mental and physical well-being. I believe that true health comes from addressing the whole person, which aligns with my approach to clinical work.

Outside of my professional life, I love reading, especially psychological thrillers, where I can explore complex characters and plots. I also enjoy playing weekly trivia with friends, which keeps me up to date on all things outside of the psychology world. Spending time outdoors is another passion of mine, whether it’s camping, going to the beach, or just soaking up nature. Some additional hobbies include going to concerts, watching hockey, yoga, and indoor cycling. Once I graduate, my goal is to become an attending psychologist at a hospital, focusing on consultation work to support diverse patient needs.

Fun Fact: I have a love for travel and have been to all 50 states!

Research Interests: Health psych - specifically chronic illness & relationships

Favorite part of the program: My favorite part of my practicum site at UCSD Medical Center is the opportunity to work with a diverse range of patients, each presenting unique medical and behavioral challenges that broaden my clinical experience. This variety allows me to build my cultural competency and deepen my understanding of integrated care in health psychology.

Practicum/Internship site: UCSD Medical Center - Consultation/Liaison

Advice to first year students: Remember the program is a marathon, not a sprint so it is important to pace yourself accordingly. The program at times can feel very overwhelming and it is important to celebrate even the small wins. So take a deep breath a remind yourself of your end goal or greater purpose for finishing the marathon.