Meet the Next Generation of Mental Health Professionals of Color in Buffalo

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Conversations about mental health have long aimed to reduce stigma, so people can seek help.

Now that people are comfortable asking for help, the next hurdle is ensuring there are enough providers to meet this need, particularly in communities of color.

“They’re looking for people who are like them, it’s assumed that you understand what we’re going through, you understand the struggle, there’s a camaraderie, people are looking for the services,” said Demario Bell, a mental health professional . .

Bell is one of 15 clinicians who hope to be part of the solution.

Dumas RISE Providers is working to help recruit more clinicians of color to the Buffalo community.

“Providing us with the resources we need to continue to serve. Training, financial support for some of us who have private practices,” said Kelly Dumas, executive director of Dumas RISE Providers.

The cohort of 15 providers began in January. They network, host workshops, and get the help they need to get licensed.

“It closed that gap and moved that needle so that we were more accessible to our community,” said cohort member Sarah Edmonds.

This group is just the beginning.

“I believe there will be thousands, the need is so great. It started here in Buffalo, I’m looking to add people from Niagara Falls, from Rochester, I’m just looking to grow,” Dumas said.