Persad Center’s mission is to improve the well-being of the LGBTQ+ community and individuals affected by HIV through counseling, psychiatry, and social support services. We strive to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all, especially those who face significant barriers to mental health care. By prioritizing services for underserved populations, also including Medicaid recipients, we aim to ensure that everyone has access to the mental health support they need.
Persad Center
History
Established in 1972, Persad Center has been a cornerstone in the Pittsburgh region for over 52 years. We have a long history of providing culturally competent, certified behavioral health services to LGBTQ+ individuals and their families. Our programs and services have evolved to meet the changing needs of our community, ensuring that we remain a trusted resource for mental health support. For the past five years, we have been laser-focused on addressing the urgent need for mental health care, and now have 23 clinicians on our team who can see clients in-person or via Telehealth, allowing us to reach more individuals in outlying areas and further enhance our impact.
Programs and Impact
Persad Center offers a comprehensive range of services, including individual and family counseling, psychiatry, support groups, and also educational training. Our programs are designed to meet the diverse needs of the LGBTQ+ community and the impact of our services is reflected in the numerous testimonials from clients who have found hope, healing, and a sense of living authentically through our programs. We also employ rigorous evaluation methods to continuously assess and enhance the effectiveness of our services, ensuring that our culturally competent, certified clinicians deliver the highest standards of care. We accept all insurance plans and are also able to assist those who qualify for Medicaid.
Training Services
As part of our community engagement, Persad Center offers specialized training services aimed at fostering an affirming and competent workplace culture. We provide educational “lunch and learn” opportunities and training sessions for employees and organizations to better understand and support the LGBTQ+ community. Our training programs, which include our popular “LGBTQ+ 101,” equips participants with strategies and best practices for creating an inclusive and supportive environment. By educating workplaces, we help create safer and more welcoming spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals, both within and outside our organization.
For more info, visit www.persadcenter.org or call 412-441-9786. Interested clients can also pre-register at www.persadcenter.org/register.
Story and Photograph by Persad Center
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