Trained as a clinical and developmental psychologist, Dr. Galán’s work focuses on three related lines of research: (1) identifying proximal and distal risk and protective factors that predict the onset of youth conduct problems and the persistence or desistance of such behaviors among economically disadvantaged and racial-ethnic minority youth; (2) elucidating the social-cognitive mechanisms through which exposure to adverse caregiving and community-based experiences (e.g., exposure to community violence) increase youth risk for conduct problems and violence; and (3) identifying innovative approaches to disseminating empirically-supported prevention and intervention programs for youth behavioral problems among families living in poverty. More recently her work has expanded to include the study of racial discrimination, racial violence, and racial-ethnic socialization in Black and Latinx families. Her goal is to use this work to develop culturally-relevant prevention programs that reduce racial stress and trauma, prevent youth behavioral problems, and improve youth and family well-being and functioning. Collectively, this work seeks to increase understanding of disparities in youth health and well-being and improve access to behavioral health services for youth in the context of their family, culture, and community.

Emily is a first year Clinical Science PhD student in the DREAM Lab and the Huey Lab, where she is co-mentored by Drs. Chardée Galán and Stanley Huey Jr. Emily’s research centers on understanding environmental and social influences on mental health and increasing access to mental health care for culturally diverse and historically oppressed communities. Throughout her research, Emily is dedicated to community engagement and using qualitative methods to inform the development and adaptation of culturally-relevant interventions. Specifically, Emily is interested in the long-term consequences of early adversity and racial discrimination on mental health; peer support; and the impact of social networks on behavior and wellbeing. Prior to starting at USC, Emily coordinated a population-based longitudinal social network study in rural Uganda with Massachusetts General Hospital and researched peer-delivered interventions for substance use in Baltimore and South Africa with the University of Maryland’s Global Mental Health and Addiction Program. She has also worked at a mental health non-profit in London and as an AmeriCorps volunteer at an elementary school in San Francisco. Emily graduated with her Bachelor’s in Biology and Society from Cornell University and her Master’s in Global Mental Health from King’s College London and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

Taryn Buford is a sophomore majoring in Psychology. She is excited to be a member of the DREAM Lab so that she can build on her interests in research and human behavior. Taryn’s interest in psychological research peaked during a child psychology class her freshman year of college. In this class, she examined the emotional effects of watching television with various levels of aggressive child behavior. Taryn recognizes the importance of studying racism and racial bias, and she is interested in furthering her knowledge in these areas. After graduation, Taryn plans to apply to PhD programs in hopes of becoming a Forensic Psychologist. She plans to work primarily with minority groups and integrate her interests in psychology and the criminal justice system. 

 David is a senior at USC studying Psychology. His interests include behavioral therapies and increasing mental healthcare access to traditionally underserved groups. In his free time, David enjoys playing soccer, tennis, and spending quality time with friends and in nature.

KC Aldana is a senior majoring in Sociology and minoring in Psychology. They are interested in learning more about how navigating a racialized society impacts the mental health of people of color. They are also passionate about expanding access to mental health services for underrepresented communities, such as LGBTQ youths. After graduation, KC hopes to attend graduate school and pursue a master’s degree in Social Work. They aspire to become a clinical social worker and provide counseling and mental health services for their community. Prior to joining the DREAM Lab,, KC served as a youth advisor for the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, a young adult leader for the Los Angeles LGBT Center, and a reading tutor for second and third-grade students for Wise Leaders to Readers, a non-profit organization that serves youth from low-income and at-risk communities.

Mythili is a sophomore studying Cognitive Science and Health and Human Sciences and minoring in Gender and Social Justice. She is interested in learning more about the effects of ethnicity and culture on mental health and how to increase access to mental health services in underrepresented communities. She is also interested in how identity and cultural background impacts how we perceive mental health. After graduation, Mythili hopes to attend graduate school and get her PhD in Clinical Psychology. She is interested in conducting research and developing projects that will empower marginalized communities and inspire conversation about social inequities. Prior to joining the DREAM lab, Mythili conducted clinical research at the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, explored couple relationship functioning and psychological well-being in the NeuroEndocrinology of Social Ties (NEST) Lab, and studied the impact of cultural divides in the Culture, Diversity, and Psychophysiology (CDP) Lab.

Mia is a sophomore studying Economics and minoring in Intermedia Arts. She is excited to be a member of the DREAM Lab’s graphic design team, which focuses on creating logos and flyers, and curating the website. She decided to join the DREAM lab after reading about Dr. Galán’s research, and she is excited to learn more about the intersection between art and social justice. Apart from graphic design, Mia operates her own streetwear clothing brand called Proven LA (ProvenLA.com). 

Elle is a sophomore studying Psychology, minoring in Designing for Digital Experiences, and pursuing the pre-pharmacy track. Currently, they are working as a graphic designer for the DREAM Lab and are inspired by the team’s mission to increase access to youth mental health resources in racialized communities. She is especially interested in the way diversity, equity, and inclusion can be explored within various fields of study, including both the medical and design communities. After completing their undergradate degree, Elle plans to attend pharmacy school and concurrently freelance as a graphic designer. In her spare time, she is also the owner and designer of an online stationery store, stxrlight studio, which caters to young journaling hobbyists.