This resource guide was created to help UIUC students and others easily find culturally competent mental health resources designed for individuals who identify as Asian/Asian American and Pacific Islander.
Why specifically AAPI?
Historically and presently, AAPI communities faces unique challenges and barriers to accessing mental health care due to challenges related to cultural stigma, language barriers, and lack of culturally competent providers and professionals.
Why are AAPI mental health resources necessary?
Addressing the mental health needs of the AAPI community is crucial for enhancing the well-being of individuals and families affected by the challenges unique to being Asian/Asian American and Pacific Islander. By actively addressing, educating about, and advocating for AAPI mental health, we can improve overall mental well-being, reduce health disparities, and empower more individuals to lead healthy, positive, and fulfilling lives. This effort fosters a more inclusive, supportive, and growth-oriented environment for all.
Looking for specific local/national resources? (Click on the tab below)
Current Resources
On-Campus Resources
- API Roots Outreach Team - Counseling Center
- The API Roots Outreach Team is a UIUC outreach team part of the University Counseling Center aiming to support and empower AAPI students on campus.
- Megan Fernandes Psy.D - API Roots Head
- Contact: Meganaf@illinois.edu
- CU-RACES (Rape, Advocacy, Counseling, and Education Services)
- Community-based center providing services for survivors of sexual assault/harassment/violence in the Champaign-Urbana area
- Crisis Line: 217-384-4444
Off-Campus Resources
- Asian Mental Health Collective
- Asian Therapist Directory - Find any/all Asian-identifying therapists across the US through this directory
- Lotus Therapy Fund
- Individuals can apply for this fund to receive 8 free therapy sessions matched with an Asian therapist.
- South Asian Therapists Directory
- Find a South Asian therapist near you through this directory
National Hotlines
- National Suicide Hotline
- Crisis Line: 988
- National Sexual Assault Hotline
- Crisis Line: (800)-656-4673
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline
- Crisis Line: (800)-662-4357
- The Trevor Lifeline (Suicide Prevention for LGBTQ Youth)
Upcoming/Current Events
Here you can find the list of upcoming AAPI mental health-related events!
AACC Community Tables
- Date: Every Thursday
- Time: Check AACC Instagram - (@aaccillinois)
- Location: Varies per week
- Theme: Varies per week
Past Events
Community Tables: Boba Banter: AAPI Chat on Mental Health
- Date: March 21, 2024
- Time: 6pm-8pm
- Location: Illinois Street Residence Hall, Rm 50A/B
- Speakers:
- Dr. Teresa Mok, Ph.D, Licensed Clinical Psychologist
- Megan Fernandes, Psy.D, UIUC Clinical Counselor
- Aaron Chun, Career Counselor at Centennial HS
- Leyi Xu, UIUC Undergraduate Student
- Mia Kaufman, UIUC Undergraduate Student
- Dwira Nandini, UIUC Undergraduate Student