LGBTQ Reducing Disparities Project

Many LGBT people face discrimination simply for being who they are. This discrimination takes its toll on LGBT communities, causing many LGBT people to struggle with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, substance abuse and suicidal thoughts.

We’re out to change the face of mental health services in California. The Reducing Disparities Project’s mission is to assess the mental wellness needs of LGBT communities across the state of California and make even better assistance available. The Project is funded by a two-year, $444,000 grant from the California Department of Mental Health to the California LGBT Health and Human Services Network.

For the first time, we are gathering meaningful data on how to better assist California’s LGBT population. For the first time, we are bringing healthcare providers, LGBT people and organizations together to set priorities for our communities’ mental wellness needs. And for the first time, we’re opening the door to government funding for the incredible organizations who work with our community.

Get Involved

In July 2011, our online survey was launched. Please click here to participate and have your voice heard.

We are also looking for California organizations that can help by providing computers with internet access for LGBTQ Californians who want to take the survey but don't always have access. Please contact us if you can help.

Learn More
  

• Meet our Strategic Planning Workgroup. Learn more about the respected health care professionals, community leaders and advocates who help to guide the Project's strategy.
    
• Meet our Advisory Groups. Our 13 Advisory Groups, composed of people who work within LGBTQ communities, help the Project to reach every part of California's LGBTQ population and ensure that their needs are represented.
     
• Stay informed. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates on the Project and on related developments.
    
• Press Release: Equality California Institute Receives $444,000 Grant from California Department of Mental Health 

Project Leadership

Poshi Mikalson, MSW
LGBTQ Mental Health Project Manager
Mental Health America of Northern California

Nicole Scanlan
LGBTQ Mental Health Assistant Manager

Daniel Gould, LCSW
Deputy Director, California LGBT Health and Human Services Network
Equality California Institute

The LGBTQ Reducing Disparities Project is presented by the California LGBT Health and Human Services Network through a collaborative arrangement with Equality California Institute and Mental Health America of Northern California, funded by the California Department of Mental Health through the Mental Health Services Act.