Pablo Hurtado, DSW

I currently serve as the Executive Director of Empower Wellness NY and Director of Community and Government Engagement, as well as a co-founder and leader of Mobile Counseling of New York. My work focuses on increasing access to mental health care, building sustainable community partnerships, and creating meaningful opportunities for youth and families.

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I earned my Doctorate in Social Work from the University of Kentucky, where my research focused on improving access to care for at-risk populations through in-home therapy. That work continues to guide my approach today—ensuring that services are not only available, but accessible, practical, and rooted in the realities of the communities we serve.

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My passion for this work is deeply connected to my military experience. I enlisted in 2006 as a Mental Health Specialist in the Army National Guard and deployed to Afghanistan twice. During my service, I helped establish a substance abuse clinic overseas, an experience that reinforced the importance of access to care in high-need environments. After returning, I continued this work by helping launch the Army National Guard’s substance abuse program and later serving as a medical service officer and deputy program manager for the Army’s Drug Demand Reduction Program.

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Through my work with Mobile Counseling of New York, I’ve remained committed to breaking down barriers to care and reaching underserved communities. That same mission drives my leadership at Empower Wellness NY.

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Empower Wellness aligns closely with my values because it takes a proactive, community-centered approach to mental health and wellness. I am especially passionate about investing in youth, because they are the foundation of our communities. When we provide young people with access to resources, mentorship, and opportunity, we create long-term impact that extends across families and communities throughout New York State.

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Through Empower Wellness, I’ve been proud to support initiatives that directly impact local communities—providing athletic scholarships, supporting families with meals and essential resources, and leading outreach efforts that bring people together during times of need. These efforts are about more than services—they are about showing up for communities in meaningful and consistent ways.

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Over the next few years, I hope to continue growing Empower Wellness by strengthening partnerships at both the community and government levels, expanding access to care, and building sustainable programs that support youth and families across New York State. My goal is to help create systems where support is accessible, community-driven, and built to last.

Outside of my work, I remain committed to leadership, mentorship, and service, always looking for ways to give back and support the next generation.