Lisa R. Savage, LCSW, and Kim L. Knight, MBA, LMHC, founded Clinicians of Color, LLC over five years ago. Kim and Lisa shared a vision of helping BIPOC mental health providers develop skills and expertise to start or grow a private practice. They saw clinicians struggle with the nuts and bolts of practice development while recognizing that mental health providers' need in Black and Brown communities was increasing. Born out of this need was COCOA—Clinicians of Color Online Academy. It's a platform that contains over one hundred classes, expert training, resources, and support. Each month members get access to clinical training, and live question and answers sessions. They are also part of a private Facebook group where they receive ongoing support and guidance from fellow members. COCOA members also get significant discounts on big-ticket items such as EMDR training and other evidence-based modalities. Kim and Lisa believe that being in practice is one thing but having the opportunity to build and refine skills is another.

Over time, Lisa and Kim expanded services to include training and advocacy. Their most recent initiative is a mental health directory to bridge the gap between need and access to services.

Clinicians of Color, since its inception, has assisted hundreds of BIPOC providers and continues to be a vital resource for our communities. We unapologetically center the needs of BIPOC communities.

Recently Clinicians of Color was fortunate to bring on Dr. Jeff Gardere as their spokesperson. Dr. Gardere is a well-known psychologist who will use his expertise and clinical experience to assist COC in its efforts to grow and create more opportunities for its members.