In 2020, during a global pandemic and burgeoning youth mental health crisis, The AAKOMA Project launched our Free Virtual Therapy Program with a goal of introducing psychotherapy to intersectional Youth and Young Adults of Color, impediment free. Funders including AETNA, the Lee Thompson Young Foundation, CFNOVA, and our AAKOMA family stepped up to support. In the wake of the murder of George Floyd, Harry’s Shave Club/Flamingo partnered with us to launch Free Therapy for Black Women. This outpouring of support was crucial in advancing our mission to promote AAKOMA’s pillars—(1) Raising Consciousness, (2) Empowering People, and (3) Changing the System.
Though our program is no longer accepting new participants, please see our carefully curated list of helpful resources to guide you or a loved one in need.
KeyHighlights from Overall Program
Year 1
July 2020 to June 2021
- Total number of patient referral inquiries received: 107
- Total number of matches made: 107
- Total number of placements: 56
- Free therapy hours offered/completed: 280
Year 2
July 2021 to June 2022
- Total number of patient referral inquiries received: 139
- Total number of matches made: 118
- Total number of placements: 55
- Free therapy hours offered/completed: 285
Year 3
July 2022 to June 2023
- Total number of patient referral inquiries received: 228
- Total number of matches made: 220
- Total number of placements: 67
- Free therapy hours offered/completed: 335
Year 4
July 2023 to June 2024
- Total number of patient referral inquiries received: 265
- Total number of matches made: 157
- Total number of placements: 72
- Free therapy hours offered/completed: 360
Referral Demographics*
Referrals by Race/Ethnicity
Referrals by Gender Identity
* Demographic breakdown is reflective of referral inquiries made after April 2023.
Years 1 and 4, our program saw several positive changes. Notably, patient referral inquiries increased by 148%, demonstrating our success in raising awareness about this service among our target population. We also saw a 28% increase in placements, further highlighting our unique ability to connect first -time therapy users with culturally responsive providers.
By the sunsetting of our program in Year 4, we facilitated and supported 1,260 hours of free virtual therapy, underscoring our commitment to improving mental health in our community. If you love our work, please consider donating to support similar programs!
