Access to mental health treatment and training for all
We support historically underserved communities along their mental well-being journeys.
OUR MISSION
To change and save lives by increasing access to proven, successful mental health interventions.
OUR VISION
A future where equitable access to proven, successful mental health services and training is a reality for all communities.
Facts/Statistics
+30%
increased suicide rates among Black people. 4 million Youth ages 12 - 17 have experienced at least one major depressive episode.
1 in 5
teens have or will have a serious mental illness. (SAMHSA, National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2022)
70-80%
of all mental health services are delivered in schools. (American School Counselor Association)
10-14 Y/Os
Suicide is the second leading cause of death among this age group in the U.S. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Leading Causes of Death Report, 2021)
OUR PROGRAMS
APF delivers impact through a two-part model:
- Training a diverse pipeline of therapists through year-long fellowships and internships for psychology and social work graduate students, as well as undergraduate and high school students from historically underrepresented backgrounds.
- Partnering with schools and community organizations to provide staff training, student resilience programs, and staff wellness support through workshops, seminars, and ongoing consultation.
What We Do
How we reduce mental health barriers in underserved communities
A commitment toward increasing inclusion, equity, and diversity within the field of psychology, provided through recruitment and training of a diverse provider base, and treating racially varied individuals and communities. We are dedicated to building and supporting a thriving network of racially diverse clients, students, and professionals, no matter where they are on their personal or professional journeys.
TRAINING PROGRAMS FOR SCHOOLS AND CBOs
APF works with schools, school districts, and youth-serving Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) to train educators, counselors, and frontline workers in evidence-based CBT and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Each training is tailored to the needs of the community, equipping professionals to address challenges in real time and fostering a culture of resilience and emotional well-being. All training includes two years of follow-up support and consultation to ensure lasting impact.
FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM
APF awards generous scholarships to graduate students and licensed professionals from historically underrepresented groups. Fellows gain exposure to the field of evidence-based clinical psychology and access to high-quality training, supervision, and consultation. Year-long fellowships are hosted in partnership with clinical training facilities.
INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
To expand the pipeline of therapists of color, APF offers paid summer and semester internships for undergraduate college and high school students. These programs provide early exposure to careers in psychology and mental health, inspiring the next generation of diverse practitioners.
Mental health is our mission.
Wherever you are along your unique journey of giving or receiving help in the field, we are dedicated to supporting and building a strong and diverse network with you.
