Youth and Family Development Program


Mission, Staff, & Operations \| Relationship Enrichment \| Developmental Assessments \| Workshops & Counseling \| Contact Information \| Other Resources

Our Mission

The Chinese character above represents the verb “to listen.” The individual characters that form this symbol tell us something about what listening means: it is made up of ears, eyes, the heart and undivided attention.

The Youth and Family Development Program's mission is to design, offer, and evaluate programs and services that foster the unique development of individuals and families. Consistent with FIU’s mission:

Students are prepared for professions in mental health and in academic psychology.
Knowledge is generated and shared.
Relationship enrichment programs and therapy are offered to the FIU and Miami-Dade communities.

Relationship enrichment encourages the development of close emotional bonds in couples and families, while also encouraging self-discipline and personal growth for each individual.

Staff & Operations

The Youth & Family Development Program is staffed by counseling interns and practicum students who are completing Master’s degree in Mental Health Research and Services or a Ph.D. in Applied Lifespan Developmental Psychology. The program is directed by Marilyn J. Montgomery, Ph. D., LMHC, NCC, and is located in the Psychology Department at Florida International University, Miami, Florida.

Clients are seen by treatment teams under the supervision of Licensed Mental Health Counselors and full-time faculty members. Observations and/or recording of some sessions may be important for quality care. However, all services are personal, confidential, and individualized.