Empowering Haitian Communities with Culturally Rooted Mental Wellness Support
HAPA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing mental health awareness, education, and culturally sensitive care within the Haitian community. We work to reduce stigma, expand access to psychiatric services, and support the emotional well-being of Haitians abroad and in Haiti.
Our members include psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, social workers, fellows, residents, medical students, mental-health advocates, and community leaders who share a commitment to improving the mental-health landscape for Haitian individuals and families. Learn more about us.
Welcome from the President
Welcome to the Haitian American Psychiatric Association (HAPA)
It is an honor to serve a community defined by resilience, strength, and great cultural pride. At HAPA, we are committed to advancing mental health awareness, education, advocacy, and culturally responsive psychiatric care for Haitians in the United States and across the diaspora.
We believe that mental health is essential to individual dignity, family stability, and community progress. Through collaboration, mentorship, and service, we work to reduce stigma, expand access to care, and empower the next generation of leaders in medicine and mental health. Thank you for visiting our website and for joining us in this important mission.
Resources & Services
We help our community by sharing mental health information, running educational events, and connecting people with helpful resources. Our work is focused on support, understanding, and breaking down the stigma around mental health in Haitian communities.
Community Mental Health Education
Workshops, forums, and informational sessions that help Haitian families understand mental-health challenges and available treatments.
Radio & Media Programming
Regular mental-health broadcasts on http://www.radiosoleil.com/ reaching thousands of listeners with mental health education, support, awareness, and destigmatizing messages.
Health Fairs
Partnerships with organizations to bring information, screenings, and resources directly into Haitian communities.
Professional Development & Networking
Opportunities for Haitian mental-health professionals to collaborate, mentor one another, and grow the next generation of leaders.
Advocacy Training & Empowerment
Founded in November 2019 by Dr. Cathryn Galanter and Dr. Charles-Belzie, the Advocacy Program partners with the Haitian American Psychiatric Association (HAPA) to advance AACAP’s principles of advocacy, equity, and culturally competent care. Through education, community outreach, and engagement with Haitian/Caribbean community and political leaders, fellows gain practical experience addressing barriers to mental health care and improving outcomes for underserved children, adolescents, and families.
We can’t do this without your help
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