Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at NYMHCA

Our Statement on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

As a professional organization focused on Mental Health Counselors and our allies practicing in New York, we believe that fostering diversity, advancing equity, and creating inclusive environments are not optional enhancements — they are moral imperatives integral to our profession and our commitment to human dignity.

We uphold that every individual — of every race, ethnicity, national origin, Indigenous Heritage, religion or spiritual tradition, gender identity or expression, sexual/affectional orientation, political affiliation, age, ability status, Deaf community, socioeconomic status, immigration status, neurodiversity or cognitive difference, or other identity — is deserving of respect, compassion, culturally responsive care, and access to the full benefits provided by Mental Health Counselors.

We recognize that systemic oppression, implicit bias, historic marginalization, and structural inequities impede mental health and well-being. It is our ethical duty to dismantle barriers, challenge injustice, and advocate for a system in which all persons can flourish without creating unintended barriers ourselves. This duty arises from our commitment to the welfare of Mental Health Counselors and their clients and from the broader moral claim that mental health care must be accessible, respectful and just.

In practical terms, we commit to:

• Following the moral values articulated by Kitchener (https://online.marquette.edu/counseling/blog/ethical-issues-and-considerations-in-counseling): Beneficence, Nonmaleficence, Autonomy, Justice, Fidelity, and Veracity.
• Recruiting, retaining, and supporting a workforce and leadership team that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.
• Continuously updating culturally and linguistically responsive services, recognizing and valuing the experience and cultural knowledge of counselors and staff alike.
• Building an organizational culture of inclusion — where voices from historically marginalized communities are heard, valued, and incorporated into service planning, governance, and evaluation.
• Hearing voices from across the political spectrum with the understanding that the moral and ethical principles of professional counseling are paramount.
• Holding ourselves accountable by establishing goals, tracking progress, and openly reflecting on successes and shortcomings — understanding that moral commitment requires vigilance, honesty, and evolution.

As a function of cultural humility, we welcome conversation and feedback on the NYMHCA DEI Statement, acknowledging that it is a work in progress.