Lazzuly Mello

Lazzuly Mello is an Associate Professor in Community Mental Health at the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS), affiliated with the School of Professional Psychology and Health and the Center for Black & Indigenous Praxis. She holds a Master’s in Counseling Psychology (CIIS) and a Bachelor’s in International Agricultural Development and Soil Science (UC Davis). Her work bridges psychodynamic theory with indigenous healing practices, focusing on marginalized communities.

Research Interests:

• Nature-Based Healing
• Latine Mental Health
• Refugee/Asylee Mental Health
• Culturally Congruent Therapeutic Practices

Her 2015 article in World Futures explores transpersonal dimensions of home, reflecting her interdisciplinary approach. She has been recognized with the President’s Service Distinction Award (2022).

Lazzuly teaches courses in Community Health and Trauma, Psychodynamics, and Group Psychotherapy. Her clinical work includes trauma support for unaccompanied minors and migrant families, using herbalism and medicinal drumming. She advocates for culturally responsive mental health frameworks through crisis relief and policy advocacy.