The Reality: Mental Health and BIPOC Communities:

BIPOC communities in the U.S. often face an unfortunate reality. They are less likely to receive mental health services, less likely to have access to services, and more likely to receive lower-quality care. It’s a reality shaped by systemic disparities, stigma, lack of culturally competent care, and social determinants of health such as income and education.

Statistics published by the American Psychiatric Association highlight that only 3.7% of members in the American Psychological Association were Black/African American, and only 5% were Hispanic as of 2015. While these numbers may have slightly improved over the past few years, they still underscore a pressing issue: the inadequate representation of BIPOC therapists in mental and behavioral health fields.

Why Mentors Matter:

Mentors play a vital role in shaping the career trajectory of these aspiring therapists. They provide professional guidance, personal support, and real-world insights that can often bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical application.

By mentoring a USTR Fellow, you have the opportunity to:

1. Impact Individual Lives: A mentor’s guidance can profoundly affect a Fellow’s career trajectory, promoting personal growth, self-confidence, and professional development.
2. Shape the Mental Health Field: Mentoring a BIPOC Fellow contributes to increasing diversity in the field, enhancing cultural competence, and improving mental health services for BIPOC communities.
3. Leave a Legacy: As a mentor, you’re not just impacting one individual; you’re impacting every life that individuals will touch throughout their career as a therapist.

Be Part of the Change:

Each year, Fathers’ UpLift selects 14 USTR Fellows who are second-year Master’s and Doctoral-level students. These Fellows need mentors to guide them through their field practicum.

You can make a difference. With just 2-5 hours a month, you can provide mentorship that will shape the careers of these aspiring therapists and improve the quality of mental health care for BIPOC communities.

The Fellowship Mentor position is open to all mental health professionals with a Master of Social Work, Ph.D., or other mental health-related degree/license (LCSW, LICSW, LMHC, etc.). This opportunity is a non-paid, voluntary position that can be virtual or in-person, with applicants from all 50 states welcome.

We’re calling all passionate mental health professionals to join us in this mission. Apply today and help shape the future of mental health.

Requirements: A Master of Social Work, Ph.D., or other mental health-related degree/license (LCSW, LICSW, LMHC, etc.).

Link to Apply:   https://form.jotform.com/231567814099062

For more details, get in touch: [email protected]

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