LBSB Chapter's Commitment to Inclusion.pdf    (print copy)

Long Beach South Bay Chapter’s Commitment to Inclusion

Long Beach South Bay Chapter of CAMFT recognizes that, as an organization, we have more to learn and more work to do to ensure our community is welcoming and supportive for everyone. We are committed to creating an environment where all therapists and community members feel respected, valued, and included. We acknowledge that individuals may experience barriers or unequal opportunities based on factors such as race, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, Indigenous heritage, immigration status, religion, socioeconomic background, or relationship status. Our primary desire is to continue learning, listening, and improving so that our organization reflects the diversity of the community we serve. We are committed to taking meaningful actions to support fairness, respect, and opportunity for all.

Plan of Action

• Inclusive Membership – Actively reach out to and welcome therapists from diverse and underrepresented communities.

• Better Understanding Our Membership – Improve how we collect and review demographic information so we can better understand our membership and plan programs that meet their needs.

• Supportive Professional Spaces – Create opportunities for therapists to connect through consultation groups, networking events, and supportive spaces for shared experiences.

• Highlight Community Resources – Promote therapists and organizations that provide low-fee, sliding scale, and specialized services to underserved communities.

• Education and Awareness – Offer training, workshops, and events that increase awareness and understanding of diversity, inclusion, and social justice in mental health care.

• Diverse Leadership – Recruit board members, committee members, and volunteers who reflect the diversity of our professional community.

• Fair and Transparent Processes – Continue strengthening our grievance and resolution processes to ensure concerns are addressed respectfully and fairly.

• Diverse Voices in Training – Invite presenters from varied backgrounds and perspectives to provide training on topics related to inclusion and equitable care.

• Dedicated Resources – Maintain a budget that supports diversity initiatives, educational programs, and community events.

• Shared Responsibility – Ensure that inclusion and respect for diversity are part of every leadership role within the organization.

Goal

To build a professional community where every therapist feels welcome, respected, and supported, and where we continually work to improve how we serve our members and the communities around us.