Rick A. Cruz, Ph.D

Rick A. Cruz, Ph.D., is an assistant professor in psychology, and a faculty member in the Combined Ph.D. program in Clinical/Counseling/School Psychology at USU. Rick completed his Ph.D. at the University of Washington in Seattle with a focus in Child Clinical Psychology. Rick completed his undergraduate training in Psychology, with a minor in Spanish, at the University of Arizona in Tucson. Dr. Cruz’s research is focused on the intersection of cultural and familial processes as they influence ethnic minority youth development, with a particular emphasis on Latino adolescent mental health and substance use risk. He is currently investigating cultural change and family disruption as precursors of substance use development among Mexican-origin adolescents. Dr. Cruz has extensive experience in clinical assessment and providing therapy to children and adolescents, families, and adults, with a focus on cognitive-behavioral methods. He has provided clinical services in a variety of settings, with special expertise in outpatient therapy. Dr. Cruz is currently pursuing clinical licensure in Utah. Rick enjoys playing and watching soccer, hiking, biking and running, and he is currently working on staying upright on his skis.”