Dr. Ana Lopez (MIND, Inc.)

Dr. Ana Mercedes Lopez, holds two doctorate degrees (a Ph.D. and a Psy.D. degree) in clinical psychology and a masters degree in counseling from Nova Southeastern University. She completed her internship through Harvard Medical School in the area of Pediatric Psychology and obtained postdoctoral research training through the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.  She is a licensed clinical psychologist in Iowa, Virginia, as well as in North Carolina. In addition to working with individuals from the general population, as one of a small handful of bilingual/bicultural clinical psychologists, Dr. Lopez has worked extensively with the Hispanic community. Areas of specialty include abuse and neglect, psychological trauma, divorce and family disruption, pregnancy-related matters, immigration-acculturation related issues, health and wellness, and geriatric mental health. In addition to providing clinical services, she has extensive experience conducting psychological, forensic, and educational assessments. For the past 15 years, Dr. Lopez has conducted immigration-related evaluations (waivers, cancellation of deportation evaluations, U-Visa assessments, N-648 medical waivers evaluations, etc.). More recently, she conducted PASRR evaluations with individuals with disabilities and mental health issues. Dr. Lopez is also a strong believer in helping to empower others through the attainment of knowledge. In 2009, Dr. Lopez was appointed by Governor Chet Culver to serve as a board member on the Iowa State Board of Education and served on the Governmental Affairs Committee of the National Association of State Boards of Education (NASBE).  Previously she served as Vice-Chair on the Iowa Licensing Board of Psychology. In addition, Dr. Lopez served as Chairperson of Minority Affairs, was on the Child Advocacy Committee, and the Legislature Committee for the Iowa Psychological Association. In 2002, she was appointed by Governor Tom Vilsack to serve on the Fatherhood Taskforce.  As an advocate for children’s welfare, Dr. Lopez has also served on the Board of Directors for the Child Abuse Prevention Counsel and in 2006 founded Guardian Angel, Inc., a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization.