About Us
Therapy Access Project (TAP) is an organization dedicated to breaking down systemic barriers to mental health care by fostering anti-carceral, community-based approaches that uphold individual autonomy and advance our collective liberation.
At TAP, our work is guided by an abolitionist framework that challenges the oppressive structures embedded in conventional mental healthcare systems. We acknowledge—and many of us have personally experienced—that traditional mental healthcare systems often perpetuate harm and trauma through practices rooted in systemic oppression, including racism, ableism, classism, queerphobia, and other forms of harm.
We are passionate about reimagining and building care models that are community- based and center equity, anti-oppression, collective healing, and harm reduction while upholding and respecting individual autonomy. Through our services and resources we support BIPOC and Queer people access affirming, inclusive therapy by connecting them with providers who respect their identities, values, and needs.
TAP’s journey began in 2020 when our founder, Finn, started by helping their pod—friends, family, and community—find therapists who honored and understood their identities and values. What began as a grassroots effort has since grown into a collective of dedicated volunteers united by a shared vision: a world where mental health care is no longer entangled with or modeled on carceral systems of punishment and control. Instead, we envision one that is inclusive, equitable, and grounded in dignity, autonomy, and community care.
Mission
Our mission is to foster equitable, inclusive mental health care rooted in abolitionist principles. At TAP, we dismantle systemic barriers and reimagine care through community-based, anti-carceral approaches that uphold individual autonomy and cultivate collective liberation. We are committed to connecting marginalized communities with affirming, values-driven care that honors their identities, experiences, and needs.
Vision
At Therapy Access Project (TAP), we envision a world where mental healthcare is a universal right—accessible, equitable, and tailored to the needs of each individual, while also being rooted in community care. We aspire to a future where systemic barriers to mental health services are dismantled, and communities flourish through solidarity, mutual support, and self-determination. By uplifting the voices of marginalized communities, we work to create a mental healthcare system built on abolitionist principles, transformative justice, and collective care. Through connection, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to equity, we aim to foster a society where everyone has access to affirming, inclusive, and values-driven mental health care.
Our Therapy Matching Services
From the moment someone applies to receive our therapy matching services, we’re here to make the process as accessible and supportive as possible—guiding applicants all the way to scheduling their first appointment.
At TAP, we work with individuals regardless of their insurance status, prioritizing a process that reduces emotional labor for applicants. Our approach is rooted in understanding each applicant’s unique needs and values. We connect them with affirming therapists who align with their identities, lived experiences, and preferences.
Before making a recommendation, we discuss critical concerns with therapists regarding the ways they respect clients autonomy, their stance on mandated reporting, involuntary hospitalization and police involvement in a crisis. We also inquire about their understanding of identity-related concepts and how they hold space for the experiences of individuals with oppressed identities.
This ensures transparency and alignment with the applicant’s comfort and needs. For those without insurance, we focus on securing sliding-scale therapy options to deconstruct cost as a barrier to care.
We also understand that finding the right therapist is deeply personal. If the initial match isn’t the right fit, we are committed to continuing the search until the right connection is made.
What to Expect from Our Services
Timeline: Each case is different and the timeline can vary depending on the needs of the applicant. That being said, the therapy matching process usually takes about less than two months, with an average turnaround time of 35 days.
Capacity: Due to limited capacity, we work with approximately 20–25 applicants to ensure quality and care during each application cycle.
Commitment: While the process may take some time, our dedicated team of 10-15 volunteers work thoughtfully and intentionally to create matches that prioritize your well-being. We are committed to supporting you every step of the way.
Let us support you in finding the right therapist or mental health care resources throughout your mental health journey. Together, we can make mental health care more accessible and affirming for all.
If applications are currently closed you can sign up to receive updates when applications for our Therapy Matching Services reopen:
Other Resources
Therapy Access Project’s Guide to Finding a Therapist: Inside you’ll find practical steps for identifying your needs, researching therapists, navigating insurance and cost barriers, and vetting potential providers. We also highlight the systemic issues in mental healthcare—including racism, queerphobia, and the harms of mandated reporting—so you can make informed decisions about your care.
TAP Newsletter
Stay connected with TAP by subscribing to our newsletter, a resource hub that brings mental health equity to your inbox.
In our newsletter, you’ll find:
Calls to Action: Tips for practicing solidarity and opportunities to support TAP’s work.
Reflection Questions: Considerations for how you can deepen your commitment to aligning your values to your thoughts and actions.
Educational Content: Insights into the history of psychology and the systemic barriers faced by marginalized communities.
Diverse Perspectives: Advice and reflections from care providers and individuals with lived experiences.
Resources: Information about peer support, crisis lines, and affirming services.
Get Involved
Our work is made possible through the support of our community and the dedication of our volunteers. Here are ways you can join us in creating equitable mental health care systems:
- Volunteer with TAP: Support our efforts in matching applicants, social media outreach, or grant writing. For more information reach out to info@therapyaccessproject.org
- Donate: Help sustain our Therapy Matching Services and expand our programs.
- Partner with TAP: Are you a therapist, organization, or advocate aligned with our values? Let’s collaborate! Email info@therapyaccessproject.org for more information.