Malik Marrero – Senior Lead Family Support Specialist, Wayside Youth and Family Support Network

Malik Marrero is a Senior Lead Family Support Specialist, with 20+ years of experience both personally and professionally working directly with providers and families. As a parent of a child with mental health challenges, he is passionate about helping parents who are struggling to understand their child’s mental health. His personal experience has allowed them a safe place to express their personal emotional turmoil while in crisis. 

Malik’s personal experience includes advocating for his child's well-being within the schools, Community Based Acute Treatment (CBAT), as well as inpatient and residential settings.

Malik is certified in Nurturing Fathers, Marriage and Parenting Facilitation, and Motivational Interviewing. As a transgender Puerto Rican man, Malik has a deep understanding of the intersection of the LGBT+ community and cultural values.