Since 1972, Persad Center has been a cornerstone in the Western PA region for over 53 years providing culturally competent, certified mental health and support services to individuals and their families. Their programs and services have evolved to meet the changing needs of our community, ensuring that they remain a trusted resource for mental health support. They are laser-focused on addressing the urgent need for mental health care and currently have clients in 37 of the 67 counties in PA. The 20 clinicians on their team can see clients in-person or via telemedicine allowing us to reach more individuals in outlying areas and further enhance their impact.

Persad mission is to improve the well-being of the LGBTQ+ community and individuals affected by HIV/AIDS through counseling, psychiatry, and support group services. They 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, including Medicaid recipients, Persad aim is to ensure that everyone has access to the mental health support they need and deserve.

More About Persad Center

Persad offers a comprehensive range of services, including individual, couples, and family counseling, psychiatry, support groups, and training. Their programs are designed to meet the diverse needs of our community, from mental health therapy to social support and outreach. The impact of their services is reflected in the numerous testimonials from clients who have found hope, healing, and a sense of living authentically through their programs. Persad is proud to serve over 500 clients a week in nearly 2,000 sessions each month either in-person or via telemedicine, and they employ rigorous evaluation methods to continuously assess and enhance the effectiveness of their services, ensuring they deliver the highest standards of care. 

How You Can Help

Persad is always looking for volunteers who can assist with event support and community outreach.

Every donation to Persad directly supports programs that change—and save—lives.  

Nourishing our community: Donations keep Persad’s client food pantry stocked, ensuring that those facing food insecurity never have to worry about their next meal. 

Creating safe spaces: Help underwrite the cost of fitness personnel to maintain Phoenix Fitness, Persad’s free, on-site gym for transgender and gender-diverse individuals—providing a safe, affirming place to build strength and confidence. 

Supporting healing and hope: Help sustain Persad’s free support groups for youth, seniors, and the transgender community—safe spaces where people find care, friendship, and a sense of belonging that breaks through social isolation.

To donate, visit www.persadcenter.org or call 412-441-9786. Interested clients can pre-register at www.persadcenter.org/register.

Story and Photograph by Persad Center

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