Professional counseling assn. to recognize work of Loíza mayor at convention
By THE STAR STAFF
Loíza Mayor Dr. Julia Nazario Fuentes expressed her gratitude to the Puerto Rican Association for Professional Counseling (APCP) on Thursday for selecting her -- alongside two other professionals in the field -- to be honored during their upcoming convention.
“It is a great honor for me to be included in this recognition, alongside these colleagues, during the 49th convention of the APCP,” the mayor stated.
Specifically, the recognition for Nazario Fuentes -- who holds a doctorate degree in the counseling field -- is for her humanitarian efforts and community service. She has served as mayor since January 2017; prior to this, she worked as an educator and served as an assistant secretary in charge of human resources at the island Department of Education.
At the convention, which will take place on Friday, Nov. 13 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton in Dorado, the professional organization will also honor Dr. Gabriel Cirino Gerena for his valuable contributions to research and to psychological and educational assessment. Additionally, Dr. Rosy Fernández García Menocal will be recognized for her academic contributions and her role in the training of professionals in the field of professional counseling.
By definition, counseling is a professional relationship that empowers diverse individuals, families and groups to achieve mental health, well-being, educational and occupational goals. In Puerto Rico, the profession has been regulated since 2002, following the enactment of Law 147 of 2002, titled the “Law to Regulate the Practice of Professional Counseling in Puerto Rico.”
