Historically mental health counseling has failed to be considered a priority within poor communities. Despite how far we have come as a society, there are still cultural and societal beliefs stigmatizing those seeking help for mental health issues. Some see mental health as a sign of weakness or personal failure.  Others are simply focused on addressing more immediate needs such as food and housing. 

OPGHI believes that best way to guarantee services to marginalized patients and communities is to refrain from suggesting they don’t exist.  By exposing future counseling professionals to this demographic, they can be trained to provide ethical and equitable service to all clients, regardless of their socio-economic status. This requires working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those who are not known for accepting this type of care. In this teaching and training program, emphasis is placed on the skill to navigate a wide range of issues in a therapeutic setting. Interns are taught the importance of and ability to demonstrate cultural sensitivity, humility and understanding of the systemic issues that contribute to poverty. Interns are trained in alternative forms of therapy including telehealth or community-based interventions, to help bridge the gap and provide much needed access to mental health services for low- and no-income individuals. OPGHI highlights the need for affordable and accessible therapy to individuals living in poverty, many of whom may have had limited access to mental health services.  Mental health should not be a luxury offered only to those who can afford the service.