Therapists of Color (TOC) Mentorship Program

Announcing the Launch of the 5th Cohort of the Therapist of Color Mentorship Program (TOCMP)

Keonna Robinson, LMFT, TOC Mentorship Program Chair

We are thrilled to announce the launch of the 5th cohort of the LA-CAMFT Therapist of Color Mentorship Program (TOCMP), a milestone that reflects both the program's success and continued effectiveness within the mental health field. Since its inception in 2021, the TOCMP has been dedicated to supporting diversity and fostering growth within the mental health community.

Historic Number of Applicants

This year, TOCMP received the highest number of applicants since the program's launch. The overwhelming response is a testament to the crucial need and the community's desire for guidance and support in navigating the professional landscape and highlights the importance of our mission, especially during these unprecedented times we currently face.

Dedicated Review and Matching Process

The selection process was both meticulous and rewarding. Our dedicated committee members convened in person to review and match nearly 100 interested clinicians, ensuring that each mentor-mentee pairing would be beneficial and enriching for both parties. The committee's commitment to this process ensures that the program continues to provide meaningful and personalized mentorship experiences. 

Huge shout out to my amazing committee who is deeply passionate, both personally and professionally, about the growth and guidance of our program. Thank you, Perla Hollow, Leanne Nettles, Gabriela Florez, Tina Cacho-Sakai, Angela Mull, and Maggie Gomez. You can read more about each one of these fabulous women on our TOC Mentorship Committee Webpage.

Announcing the 2025 Cohort

On May 19th, the announcement of the 2025 cohort was made, signifying a new chapter in the TOCMP's journey. This cohort brings together a diverse and talented group of clinicians who are eager to learn, grow, and contribute to the field of mental health. We wish this cohort an abundance of self-reflection, laughter, and lasting memories. May you be stretched in new ways through deep conversations and allow yourselves to dream bigger than you ever have knowing that you have the support from a clinician in your corner who simply “gets it”.

Upcoming Orientation and Program Support

To kick off this exciting journey, the TOCMP committee will host its annual Mentorship Orientation today, on June 1st. This orientation will be a pivotal event where all matched mentors and mentees will gather virtually to outline program support, guidance, and expectations. It will also serve as a warm welcome to all new members of our mentoring community, setting the stage for a year of development, collaboration, and shared success.

Stay Tuned for Updates

As the program progresses, we invite everyone to stay tuned for updates throughout the year. Our commitment to transparency and communication will ensure that participants and the wider community are kept informed about the program's developments and achievements.

Call to Action: Call for Mentors

We are continuously seeking licensed professionals who are passionate about mentoring the next generation of therapists. If you are interested in becoming a mentor and contributing to the empowerment and enrichment of therapists of color, please reach out to us at tocmentorshipprogram@lacamft.org. Your expertise and guidance could make a significant difference in the lives and careers of aspiring therapists.

The launch of the 5th cohort of the Therapist of Color Mentorship Program marks another step forward in our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and professional growth within the mental health field. We look forward to witnessing the incredible journeys of our mentors and mentees and are excited for the positive impact this program will continue to have.

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.