Iris Lopez, M.A., LMFT
Iris Lopez, M.A., LMFT, is the Division Chief of Community Based Services at Hillsides, where she oversees outpatient and intensive mental health programs serving children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. With over 29 years of dedicated service in the nonprofit sector, Iris has built a distinguished career advancing mental health care in Los Angeles County. Her expertise spans clinical documentation, contracts, and managed care plans in compliance with Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health standards. She is recognized for her ability to design and implement programs that address diverse community needs while maintaining the highest standards of care.
Iris holds a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy/Counseling from Pacific Oaks College and a Bachelor of Science in Criminology from California State University, Fresno. Her academic background, combined with her extensive leadership experience, equips her to guide multidisciplinary teams in delivering innovative, client-centered mental health services. Over more than a decade of clinical supervision, she has cultivated a leadership style that fosters collaboration, professional development, and excellence in service delivery.
Passionate about expanding access to mental health care, Iris strives to create programs that empower individuals and strengthen families. Her work reflects a deep commitment to inclusivity, cultural responsiveness, and community engagement. Through strategic leadership and advocacy, Iris continues to influence positive change, ensuring that Hillsides’ services meet the evolving needs of those they serve while building lasting impact across Los Angeles County.
• Pacific Oaks College - MAMFT
• California State University, Fresno - BSC
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my genuine love for people and the relationships I’ve been able to build along the way. I believe that truly seeing, valuing, and listening to others creates the foundation for trust, collaboration, and meaningful impact. Whether in professional settings or personal connections, I approach every interaction with empathy, respect, and a commitment to uplifting those around me. This people-centered mindset not only fuels my passion for what I do but also inspires me to keep growing, learning, and giving my best so that others can thrive as well.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life center on balance, connection, and commitment. I believe in showing up fully for the people and responsibilities that matter most, whether that means being present for my son as he pursues his passion for football, investing in my own health and well-being through regular workouts, or staying intentional about maintaining strong connections with friends. These priorities keep me grounded, motivated, and energized, allowing me to bring my best self into my professional role while also nurturing the relationships and routines that make life meaningful.