A Message from the Executive Director

As we step into this new fiscal year, I am filled with hope and determination for the road ahead. At El Centro de Amistad (ECDA), we remain steadfast in our mission to enrich the lives of individuals and families throughout the San Fernando Valley by providing high-quality mental health services and family support. This year, […]

Strengthening Bonds Through Infant Massage: Supporting Early Childhood Development

At El Centro de Amistad, we are deeply committed to providing essential supportive and preventative services through our Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health program. This program focuses on children aged 0–3, ensuring they receive the nurturing and care critical for their growth and development. One of the unique interventions we offer is infant massage, […]

Navigating the Holidays: Coping with Stress & Mental Health Challenges

The holiday season, often seen as a time of joy, connection, and celebration, can also be a period of heightened stress and emotional struggle for many. While festive decorations and gatherings surround us, the holidays can intensify feelings of loneliness, anxiety, financial strain, and grief, especially for those already grappling with mental health challenges. The […]

Hope for the Holidays!

As part of our commitment to giving back, El Centro de Amistad proudly hosts our annual Thanksgiving Food Drive and Adopt-A-Family campaign during the holiday season. These heartwarming initiatives are designed to bring joy and hope to low-income families facing mental health challenges. Both campaigns foster a sense of community and support by providing essential […]

Sam’s Journey of Overcoming Anxiety

When Sam, an 8-year-old boy, first came to El Centro de Amistad (ECDA) for therapy, he was grappling with significant anxiety that impacted not only his daily life but also the dynamics within his family. Sam frequently felt overwhelmed with worry, particularly concerning school and social interactions. His anxiety often manifested physically, with symptoms like […]

El Centro de Amistad Celebrates the Opening of Panorama City FamilySource Center with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

El Centro de Amistad (ECDA) proudly marked the grand opening of its Panorama City Family Source Center with a ribbon-cutting event on August 16, 2024. The new center, designed to provide crucial support to low- and moderate-income families with children up to age 17, aims to offer a wide range of social, educational, and family […]

Brenda’s Journey to Healing and Growth

Brenda, a 16-year-old high school student at Birmingham Community High School, has faced more challenges in her young life than many can imagine. As the daughter of a Mexican mother and a Guatemalan father, Brenda’s cultural background is rich, but her personal journey has been marked by significant loss and upheaval. After the tragic passing […]

Reflecting on the 4th Annual Mental Health Conference: Embracing Vulnerability in Grief & Loss

We are delighted to share the remarkable success of our 4th annual virtual mental health conference, “Grief & Loss – Embracing Vulnerability: A Journey Towards Resilience and Healing,” held this past May in celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month. Hosted by El Centro de Amistad, this year’s event was a profound exploration into the deeply […]