We, a mental health trauma trained clinic in St. Paul, MN, are deeply saddened by the murder of George Floyd on May 25, 2020, as well as the many others who have been tragically killed based on the color of their skin.

Twenty-twenty has brought tragedy to our country (and world) as we continue to navigate the global pandemic of COVID-19 and work even harder to fight anti-racism.  As we’ve said in many of our social media posts, we are living in a collective trauma during this time which has brought greater awareness to the layers of intergenerational and historical trauma as well as systemic racism in our country.  Since the death of George Floyd, the country is rising in solidarity with our black and brown communities.  We are committed to doing the work to improve professionally and personally.  We are here to listen, learn and act to be better humans and therapists as we continue to provide services for all. 

Our heart-led leaders are dedicated to taking the following actions with the knowledge that these are single steps at the beginning of a long process, but we are ready and committed to the marathon ahead of us.

• We will be inviting outside professionals to provide regular and consistent training and workshops on anti-racism.
• We will read, listen and watch to educate ourselves about anti-racism and think deeper about internalized racism within ourselves as therapists and individuals. 
• Our clinical leader is committed to challenging the above in individual supervision and consultation in regards to self-of-therapist work to further integrate and reflect /so the learnings have a space of accountability and integration. As white, female business owners, we will lead by example and challenge each other to continue to form a culture and organization that is all inclusive and free of systemic racism. 

2.    Diversify our team of therapists

• We recognize the value that diversity brings to our team and to the community we serve.  We are committed to seeking candidates from diverse backgrounds who align/s with the values and culture of Invigorate Life Counseling. 

3.  We have made donations to the below organizations and will continue to donate quarterly to local and national organizations that support communities of color: 

• Reclaim the Block

• Neighbors United Funding Collaborative 

• Lake Street Council 

4.  We invite you to join us, to educate yourself, to listen and to learn.  By taking these steps, we can collectively work towards eliminating the inequalities and injustices that exist in our communities.   

As trained therapists, we are here to listen and to provide therapeutic services to all regardless of skin color, age, sexual identity, socioeconomic status, educational level, size of your body, gender, culture or spiritual beliefs.  

All are welcome.  We see you.  We are here for you.  We will join you on your healing journey. 

In solidarity for our communities of color and with committed and hopeful hearts,

Melanie Vinton & Katie Mohr