Message From the President
Althea T. Simpson, MBA, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S™
At the Black Play Therapy Foundation, we are an inclusive, creative, and innovative nonprofit mental health organization dedicated to promoting mental health equity and addressing mental health disparities within the Black community. As the founding President, I am committed to leading with integrity, transparency, and a deep respect for the voices and experiences of those we serve. I am excited to introduce you to our unique purpose, mission, vision, and the important work we are committed to doing.
Together, we are a force to be reckoned with. We are not just working to reduce mental health disparities; we are creating environments where individuals, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to thrive emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
Our mission is not one that can be achieved alone. We aim to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote mental health literacy within the Black community through community partnerships, research initiatives, and outreach programs. We advocate for policies and practices that prioritize mental wellness, equity, and justice. We invite you to join us in our journey toward healing, empowerment, and transformation within the Black community. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of future generations.
About
Black Play Therapy Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our foundation is built on a deep commitment to addressing mental health disparities that disproportionately impact individuals and families within the Black community. These disparities include access to culturally responsive mental health care, inequality, and a lack of culturally responsive representation of Black mental health professionals with a play therapy specialization. We recognize the unique challenges and systemic barriers that contribute to these disparities, and we are dedicated to creating positive change through culturally responsive and inclusive mental health and behavioral health services.
The Black Play Therapy Foundation was founded to promote the therapeutic benefits of play therapy as an effective psychotherapy treatment modality for children, adolescents, adults, families, couples, and groups in the Black community. We are also deeply committed to increasing the representation of Black play therapists in the mental health field, ensuring diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our work.
Purpose Statement
The Black Play Therapy Foundation is dedicated to addressing and eliminating mental health disparities within the Black community by providing comprehensive education, training, and play therapy services. Our purpose is to foster the emotional well-being, resilience, and healing of individuals within the Black community, particularly children and adolescents, who face unique mental health challenges due to systemic inequities and historical trauma.
Mission Statement
The Black Play Therapy Foundation is dedicated to minimizing the effects of mental health disparities within the Black community through innovative play therapy interventions, comprehensive education, advocacy, and collaborative partnerships. Our mission is to foster healing, resilience, and emotional well-being by providing culturally responsive and accessible mental health services that honor the unique experiences and strengths of individuals and families.
Vision Statement
Our vision at the Black Play Therapy Foundation is to create a world where every member of the Black community has equitable access to transformative mental health care. We envision a future where mental wellness is prioritized, stigma is eliminated, and individuals are empowered to lead fulfilling lives. Through our collaborative efforts, we strive to build a resilient and thriving community where mental health is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being.
The Black Play Therapy Foundation's primary goals and objectives
Equitable Mental Health Access: The foundation aims to ensure that individuals within the Black community, regardless of age, socio-economic status, or background, have equitable access to high-quality mental health services. We seek to bridge the existing gaps in mental health care and remove barriers that prevent individuals from seeking and receiving the help they need.
Play Therapy Excellence: We are committed to advancing the field of play therapy, recognizing its effectiveness in supporting emotional and psychological healing, particularly in children. Through research, training, and professional development programs, we strive to empower mental health professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide culturally sensitive and effective play therapy within the Black community.
Culturally Responsive Services: We emphasize the importance of culturally responsive mental health care. Our foundation actively promotes diversity, inclusion, and cultural sensitivity within the mental health profession, ensuring that services provided are relevant and responsive to the unique needs of the Black community.
Mental Health Education and Awareness: The foundation aims to raise awareness about mental health issues within the Black community and dismantle the stigma associated with seeking mental health support. We provide educational resources and community outreach programs that promote mental health literacy, self-care, and the importance of early intervention.
Community Empowerment: The Black Play Therapy Foundation is dedicated to empowering individuals and families within the Black community to become advocates for their own mental health. We seek to strengthen community bonds and resilience through community-driven initiatives, support groups, and partnerships with local organizations.
Research and Advocacy: We engage in research initiatives to understand the unique mental health needs and challenges the Black community faces. By advocating for policies that address systemic racism and promote mental health equity, we strive to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.
By pursuing these objectives, the Black Play Therapy Foundation envisions a future where mental health disparities within the Black community are a thing of the past, where individuals are equipped with the tools to overcome trauma, and where the entire community thrives emotionally, mentally, and socially. We are committed to working tirelessly to achieve this vision and create a brighter, healthier future for all.
