Cynthia A. Telles

American psychologist and diplomat

Cynthia Ann Telles is an American psychologist and diplomat, currently serving as the United States Ambassador to Costa Rica. She has had a distinguished career in both the fields of psychology and public service, contributing significantly to mental health advocacy and international relations.

Early life and education

Raymond and Cynthia Telles reading

Cynthia Telles was born into a family with a rich heritage of public service. Her father, Raymond Telles, was the first Mexican-American mayor of a major American city, El Paso, Texas, and later served as the United States Ambassador to Costa Rica. This early exposure to diplomacy and public service influenced her career path.

Telles pursued her undergraduate studies at Smith College, where she developed a keen interest in psychology. She went on to earn her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Boston University, where she focused on cross-cultural psychology and mental health disparities.

Career in psychology

Telles has had a long and impactful career in psychology, particularly in the area of mental health services for underserved communities. She has been a faculty member at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Medicine, where she has taught and conducted research on mental health issues affecting diverse populations.

Her work has emphasized the importance of culturally competent care and the integration of mental health services into primary care settings. Telles has been a vocal advocate for policies that address mental health disparities and improve access to care for minority communities.

Public service and diplomacy

Cynthia Telles, 1986

In addition to her work in psychology, Telles has been actively involved in public service. She has served on numerous boards and commissions, including the Los Angeles World Airports Commission and the California Community Foundation. Her leadership in these roles has focused on improving community health and well-being.

In 2021, Telles was appointed as the United States Ambassador to Costa Rica by President Joe Biden. In this role, she has worked to strengthen the bilateral relationship between the United States and Costa Rica, focusing on issues such as environmental protection, economic development, and regional security.

Personal life

Cynthia Telles is married and has two children. She is known for her commitment to family and community, often speaking about the importance of balancing professional responsibilities with personal life.

Related pages

• Raymond Telles
• United States Ambassador to Costa Rica
• Mental health in the United States

Cynthia A. Telles, U.S. Ambassador