The Minority Mental Health Act proposal advocates increasing access to culturally competent and linguistically appropriate mental health services in underserved and BIPOC communities. This proposal requests for legislators to support the S.5207/A.7239 bill which would “establish a Minority Mental Health division within the Office of Mental Health to assure that mental health programs and services are culturally and linguistically appropriate to meet the needs of racial and ethnic minorities”, (NAMI, 2021). 

As a Chinese American, finding a culturally sensitive therapist was a challenge. In my personal experience, it took a lot of trial and error to find a practitioner that understands why I can’t just “put myself first”. I felt frustrated and dismissed. Having more culturally diverse clinicians can also help reach clients with language barriers. Some people may shy away from seeking mental health services due to fear of inability to effectively communicate with the practitioner. I strongly believe that having more bilingual and culturally competent providers can help expand access and education on mental health to racial and ethnic minority groups.