Message From the President
Althea T. Simpson, MBA, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S™, PhD
Welcome to the BLACK PLAY THERAPY ™, a nonprofit mental health organization dedicated to promoting mental health equity and addressing disparities within the Black community. As founding President, I lead with a commitment to integrity, transparency, and deep respect for the voices and experiences of those we serve.
BLACK PLAY THERAPY ™ provides culturally responsive behavioral and mental health counseling, specializing in play therapy and other expressive therapies. We create healing spaces where Black individuals and families can access quality mental health care that honors their experiences and strengths. Through culturally attuned counseling services, community partnerships, educational programs, and advocacy efforts, we work to reduce stigma and increase mental health literacy within our community.
The path to improving mental health outcomes requires collective effort. We build meaningful partnerships with community organizations, mental health professionals, and advocates who share our commitment to advancing mental health equity. Together, we can expand access to culturally responsive behavioral and mental health care and support the emotional and psychological well-being of Black individuals and families for generations to come.
I invite you to join us in this important work.
About
BLACK PLAY THERAPY ™ is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing education, professional behavioral and mental health counseling, and wellness services to the Black community. Our organization is built on a deep commitment to addressing mental health disparities that disproportionately impact Black individuals and families. These disparities include limited access to culturally responsive mental health care, systemic inequality, and a lack of Black mental health professionals specializing in play therapy and expressive therapies.
We provide comprehensive behavioral and mental health counseling services, specializing in play therapy and other expressive therapeutic intervention approaches. Our licensed mental health professionals offer individual, family, couple, and group counseling, with services tailored to meet the unique needs of children, adolescents, and adults in the Black community. We create a culturally affirming space for healing and growth through direct counseling services and mental health education.
BLACK PLAY THERAPY ™ was founded to promote play therapy as an effective behavioral and mental health counseling modality while increasing the representation of Black play therapists in the mental health field. We recognize the unique challenges and systemic barriers that impact mental wellness in the Black community, and we are dedicated to creating positive change through culturally responsive and inclusive mental health services.
Purpose Statement
BLACK PLAY THERAPY ™ is dedicated to addressing mental health disparities within the Black community by providing culturally responsive behavioral and mental health counseling services, including play therapy and other expressive therapies, along with comprehensive education and training. We aim to foster the emotional well-being, resilience, and healing of Black individuals and families through community-based education and professional mental health services.
Mission Statement
BLACK PLAY THERAPY ™ addresses mental health disparities within the Black community through four core commitments:
- providing professional behavioral and mental health counseling, including innovative play therapy and other expressive interventions;
- delivering community education and mental health awareness programs;
- engaging in advocacy to promote equitable mental health care; and
- building collaborative partnerships to strengthen mental health resources.
Our mission is to foster healing, resilience, and emotional well-being by providing culturally responsive and accessible behavioral and mental health services that honor the unique experiences and strengths of Black individuals and families.
Vision Statement
Our vision at BLACK PLAY THERAPY ™ is to foster a community where Black individuals and families have equitable access to culturally responsive mental health care. We envision increased acceptance of mental health support, reduced stigma around seeking care, and greater representation of Black mental health professionals in our community. Through our collaborative efforts, we strive to support the emotional well-being and resilience of Black individuals and families, making mental health care an accessible and valued part of overall wellness.
BLACK PLAY THERAPY ™ Goals and Objectives
Equitable Mental Health Access: Our organization aims to ensure that individuals and families 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 mental health care gaps and minimize barriers preventing 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 behavioral, emotional, and psychological healing, particularly across the lifespan. 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 and other expressive counseling techniques within the Black community.
Culturally Responsive Counseling Services: BLACK PLAY THERAPY ™ emphasizes the importance of our culturally responsive behavioral and mental health counseling. Our organization actively promotes diversity, inclusion, and cultural sensitivity within the mental health profession, ensuring that our counseling services are relevant and responsive to the unique needs of the Black community.
Mental Health Education and Awareness: Our organization aims to raise awareness about mental health issues within the Black community and help dismantle the stigma associated with seeking behavioral and mental health counseling support. We provide educational resources and community outreach programs that promote mental health literacy, self-care, and the importance of early intervention.
Community Empowerment: BLACK PLAY THERAPY ™ 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 are developing research initiatives to understand better and address the mental health needs, barriers to care, and treatment outcomes within the Black community. Our planned research will inform evidence-based advocacy efforts to transform mental health policies and practices that perpetuate systemic inequities. We are building partnerships with community organizations, mental health providers, and policymakers to promote culturally responsive care and expand access to quality mental health services for Black individuals and families.
By pursuing these goals and objectives, BLACK PLAY THERAPY ™ envisions a community where Black individuals and families have consistent access to culturally responsive mental health care, where seeking mental health support is destigmatized, and where mental health professionals reflect the diversity of the communities they serve. Through our work, we strive to create spaces where individuals can heal from trauma, build resilience, and experience emotional well-being. We are committed to contributing to positive change in mental health care access, quality, and outcomes for the Black community.
