President's Message — Shawn LaRe’ Brinkley, MS, LMFT

A Celebration of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Following Black History Month

As we journey into the spring of this new year filled with opportunities for growth, reflection, and progress, I am honored to serve you as the first Black President of our esteemed organization. This disruption in the status quo not only marks a milestone in the history of San Fernando Valley CAMFT but also signifies our commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within our community.

As we just celebrated Black History Month and move into Women’s History Month, it is essential to remember and recognize the invaluable contributions of African Americans and brilliant Women to the fields of psychology, therapy, and mental health from pioneers such as Dr. Kenneth Clark, whose ground breaking research on racial identity and segregation laid the foundation for desegregation efforts in the United States to women leaders such as Mary Whiton Calkins, the 14th president of the American Psychological Association and first women to serve in that capacity. Their contributions to the field have proven to be invaluable and game-changing, and includes advocacy for competent care and our profession owes much to the trailblazers who have paved the way.

In commemorating these landmark months, let us not only honor the past but also reaffirm our dedication to creating a more equitable and inclusive future. This commitment extends beyond the months of February and March and permeates every aspect of our work as therapists. It requires us to actively engage in on-going education, reflection, and dialogue to dismantle systemic barriers and address the unique needs of marginalized communities.

As therapists, we have the responsibility to advocate for social justice and equality both within and beyond the therapy room. By embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion in our practice, we not only enhance the quality of care we provide but also contribute to the collective well-being of society as a whole.

In the spirit of continuous change and forward movement, let us rededicate ourselves to the principles of empathy, understanding, and respect. Let us challenge ourselves to confront biases, privilege, and discrimination, and to foster and environment where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued.

Together, let us embark on a journey of discovery as well learn about one another’s cultural norms, embrace our differences, and acknowledge our similarities. Let us create a more equitable future where the richness of human diversity is celebrated and embraced. Thank you all for your continued commitment to our shared mission, and I look forward to the meaningful impact we will make in the year ahead.

Shawn LaRe’ Brinkley, MS, LMFT is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist, owner, and Executive Clinical Director of Living Loved Pathways to Holistic Healing, a group practice in Encino, CA. She is a Trauma Recovery Specialist, Certified Mindfulness Practitioner, Certified Laughter Yoga Instructor, and enjoys using nontraditional methods in her therapy practice including art as a healing tool along with music, poetry, and movement. She looks forward to a productive, fun-filled year for chapter members as president.