Model and Strategy
Access Institute was founded in 2002 to address the affordability gap for mental health care in San Francisco. It has created a successful program that provides high quality mental health services that are flexible, responsive and tailored to individual needs, all at a very low cost. This project will expand the organization’s capacity to provide free and affordable care to low-income children, adults and seniors in order to meet the growing demand for mental health care in San Francisco. The project will add needed mental health services at the outpatient clinic and at partner programs including additional services in public schools. The outcome will be that more people achieve lasting psychological change, develop healthier relationships and take advantage of economic and social opportunities. The project continues to build on an innovative, evidence-based model that can be expanded locally and replicated in other cities throughout the country.
Impact
Most of the individuals Access Institute serves have had few to no options for mental health care and treatment. In addition, many suffer from serious psychological trauma and related complex symptoms and self-destructive behavior. If these individuals don’t receive attentive mental health care, they will continue to suffer, will remain locked in cycles of poverty and illness and may face premature death. By breaking destructive cycles, Access Institute not only helps people currently suffering from psychological problems, but empowers them to support their family and friends who may need psychological care in the future. Mental health stigma and the lack of preventative care are two major challenges Access Institute works to address. Through its partnerships with elementary schools and the adult day health center, Access Institute has worked to change the organizational cultures from ones burdened by shame and stigma to ones where mental health problems are accepted and addressed proactively. Access Institute creates powerful shifts in mindsets around mental health care, breaks down stigmas and opens up access to vitally important treatments.
Leadership
-
Bart Magee
Founder and Executive Director