Therapists of Color (TOC) Mentorship Program

New Records and Higher Heights for the TOC Mentorship Program

Keonna Robinson, LMFT, TOC Mentorship Program Chair

In May, the TOC Mentorship Program Committee gathered again for the year's most anticipated task: Matching Day! With interest forms brimming with hopes and ambitions, our meeting spot in Pasadena buzzed with excitement and (honestly) a little nervousness as the team carefully reviewed each submission.

This year we hit a record-breaking number of mentor and mentee applicants! Not only do we continue to support TOC's across California, we've now stretched outside the state with mentees and mentors from the South and Midwest able to participate in this groundbreaking program. It's truly remarkable to see and feel the incredible impact this program continues to have on Therapists of Color across the country. 

Reviewing the interest forms was like diving into a sea of vibrant stories—each one a gem revealing the passion and potential of all involved. The committee and I were so moved by the sheer dedication and enthusiasm on display, making the selection process both challenging and heartwarming.

On June 1st, the fifth mentoring cohort sprang to life, with 98.8% of mentees intentionally paired with a licensed mentor of color. We kicked things off with our virtual orientation hosting over 65 clinicians. We reviewed program highlights, our continued DEI commitment, and mentoring resources to fuel their journey. What a time we had! 

Storytime

Someone recently asked me, "Keonna, why do you still do this in addition to the other roles you hold in the field? When will it be enough?" I paused for a second to really soak in what I was being asked. My response slowly crawled up from my core to the back of my throat and I said, "Internally, my mission is clearly defined. To craft relationships that will surpass the mentorship experience, but foster guidance, support, and lasting connections, something we desperately need now more than ever. I have no idea how far I can take this but I'm here for the ride until as many clinicians of color get the tools they need to thrive equitably in this field.

I am fueled by the principle of Ujima meaning collective work and responsibility. It is my duty to make my community's problems, my problems and work collectively to build and solve these issues together." Now, I'm not sure if they were ready for that response, but they caught me on a good day, hahaha!

Despite some not understanding the continued need for mentorship w

ithin communities of color, the TOC Committee is bubbling over with hope and excitement for the incredible paths awaiting our mentors and mentees. So, here's to our selected 2025 mentors and mentees—congratulations on embarking on a journey that is not solely about matching but about building and maintaining the future of our communities of color so that generations to come are positively impacted by therapists who are well supported and nurtured to do this good work!

Stay tuned for more updates from this year's cohort! We have exciting new program merchandise coming soon and lots to share regarding our Fall event.  

If you are interested in joining the program next year, visit our webpage or send us an email. Interest forms will open again March 2026. 

Keonna Robinson, MA, LMFT

TOC Mentorship Program Chair

TOC Mentorship Webpage

Email: Tocmentorshipprogram@lacamft.org 

Images: all images were taken and designed by Keonna Robinson using a personal smartphone device.