Community mental health centers (CMHC) provide mental health services for adults, children, and families at reduced cost. According to the World Health Organization, CMHC provide more accessible and effective services that are less likely to neglect and violate human rights compared to traditional mental health hospitals[1]. In 2008, over 17 million people sought services at CMHC, of those, 35% were insured through Medicaid and 38% were uninsured[2]. Traditionally, a large component of CMHC funding has come from government support, such as early childhood programs, family preservation, and case management services for older and disabled adults with severe and persistent mental illness. However, in light of increasing cuts to CMHC funding, the National Psychotherapy Foundation seeks to support CMHC in providing quality care for the underserved through financial support, assisting licensed professionals in volunteering clinical and/or supervision hours, and increasing awareness of the need for affordable mental health services.

Donations to National Psychotherapy Day will first go to building, maintaining and promoting the website. Following that, donations will go to CMHCs in the Los Angeles area. Please give, your funds go either to the education from this website or direct services at CMHC’s.