Maira Sanchez

Why did you become a healthcare provider?

What drew me to the field of mental health was witnessing my parents, as migrant workers, endure significant emotional distress while navigating a complex and often discriminatory legal system. As a child, I lived with the constant worry of my parents being taken away. Over time, through immense effort and resilience, they were able to obtain citizenship.

Later, while working at a similar Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), I observed how women, particularly mothers, often prioritized the needs of their families—especially their children—over their own. This reminded me of my own mother, who made countless sacrifices to ensure her children had better opportunities. However, these sacrifices often led to significant stress, as she struggled to express her emotions in healthy ways.

What do you enjoy or find most fulfilling about caring for patients?

The most fulfilling part of my work at Adelante is being able to provide patients with validation and a compassionate space to feel heard. Sometimes, these small acts can have a profound impact. Mental health is often undervalued, but being at Adelante allows me to address patients’ mental health needs early on, helping them before symptoms escalate and significantly affect their well-being.

If you could be anything else, what would you want to be?

If I could be anything else, I would love to own a coffee shop that welcomes pets and serves as a community space for connection and healing. I would also embrace being a spiritual medicinal practitioner, honoring the wisdom of indigenous practices. In today’s world, much of this knowledge has been overlooked, yet I believe it holds immense value and potential in the realm of holistic medicine.

Do you have hobbies or a way you like to spend your time away from work?

My hobbies include traveling, exploring new coffee shops, spending quality time with my dog, and hiking to enjoy the beauty of nature.