Mental Health Department

The Mental Health Department (CMMH) has dedicated over four decades to advancing culturally competent mental health services and training. Established in 1976, we operate as a vital program within Boston Medical Center and maintain strong affiliations with the Boston University School of Medicine. Our mission centers on mentoring future psychologists through cultural humility and social justice frameworks while delivering clinical services to underserved urban populations. Our APA-accredited doctoral internship program, the oldest of its kind in the nation, has trained generations of mental health professionals since 1986. We extend our expertise through the Institute for Multicultural Practice and Research (IMPAR), providing nationwide consultations, evaluations, and behavioral health services. Our disaster response initiatives, including Psychological First Aid training since 2001, have supported communities affected by crises ranging from 9/11 to the Boston Marathon bombing.

Our multicultural staff of licensed psychologists and interns delivers assessment, counseling, and referral services across Boston's diverse neighborhoods. We maintain a steadfast commitment to addressing mental health disparities among minority populations facing socioeconomic challenges. Our training programs emphasize cross-cultural competence, preparing professionals to work effectively with refugees, LGBTQ communities, and substance abuse patients. As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, we continue evolving to meet the changing needs of urban mental health while upholding our founding principles of equity and inclusion.