Are you ready to be a beacon of change in perinatal mental health for BIPOC communities?
The PSI Alliance for People of Color Fellowship isn’t just a program—it’s a powerful movement designed to close critical gaps in research, access, and understanding of perinatal mental health complications affecting Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) individuals.
If you’re passionate about making a tangible difference, this fellowship will empower you to deepen your expertise and amplify your impact. You’ll gain invaluable skills and knowledge on how perinatal mental health issues uniquely affect BIPOC birthing communities and their families, as well as the complex systems they navigate during their birthing journeys.
Our 2025-2026 cohort, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to work with leaders in perinatal mental health while contributing directly to the advancement of research through a capstone project focusing on vital topics such as:
- Early Pregnancy Loss
- LGBTQIA+
- Substance Use
Hear directly from our past Fellows
Learn more about Zuania’s experience by reading her blog post
Your Path to the Fellowship
Our Fellowship Program offers an unparalleled opportunity for dedicated BIPOC professionals to gain specialized knowledge unique to the mental health needs of BIPOC individuals and families.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be an Alliance member- join the Alliance here
- Must identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Person of Color)
- 2 years of experience in perinatal mental health or working with the perinatal community and their families, post graduation or certification
- Early career researcher or transitioning researcher
- Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Certificate Course of at least 14 hours (Advanced Day not required). Review the full list here
- Two professional letters of recommendation
Education Requirements
- Psychotherapy: Graduate degree
- Psychopharmacology: Medical Degree/Advanced Practice Nursing Degree
- Affiliated Professional: Professional Credential and/or Specialized Training
Applications for the 2025-2026 Fellowship cohort are currently closed. Our next round of applications will open in the Summer of 2026.
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FAQs
Q: What is the Alliance Fellowship Program?
A: The Fellowship is a 10-month professional development program designed to support BIPOC providers working in perinatal mental health. Fellows will receive training, mentorship, and opportunities to grow as leaders in the field. The final project is a lit review and presentation covering it. (Due to time constraints, this is NOT an IRB Research Project)
Q: Who is eligible to apply?
A: Applicants must identify as BIPOC, have at least 2 years of experience in perinatal mental health or a related field, are 2 years post-grad/ certification in respective field, and are committed to working with underserved communities, and must be PSI Alliance members.
Q: I currently reside outside of the United States. Can I still apply?
A: We’re always looking to expand; however, this round is for those based in the United States or US territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands.
Q: Is this a full-time commitment?
A: No. The Fellowship is designed to fit into your existing professional life. Lectures are 4 hours 1x/month but there is time outside lectures, determined by the capstone group, used to complete milestones and prepare presentations.
Q: Do I have to be a licensed provider to apply? Or what qualifications do I need to apply?
A: Not necessarily. The Fellowship welcomes a range of professionals including therapists, doulas, midwives, OBs, nurses, lactation specialists, peer supporters, and community workers who are actively engaged in perinatal mental health.
Q: Is there a cost to participate?
A: No, the program is completely free for accepted fellows. In fact, fellows receive benefits such as PSI and Alliance membership for their cohort year, as well as free PMH-C exam if they desire to take it.
Q: What kind of support do Fellows receive?
A: Fellows receive mentorship from experienced professionals, monthly live training sessions, peer support, and access to exclusive resources and networks.
Q: Will I get a certification at the end of the Fellowship?
A: While the Fellowship is not a certification program, participants receive a certificate of completion.
Q: Do I need to complete a capstone project?
A: Yes. Fellows are expected to develop a final group capstone project in the form of a literature review based on the preselected topics that contribute to the field of perinatal mental health. Prospective fellows will select their topic of interest on the application.
Q: How long is the next fellowship cohort?
A: The 2025-2026 cohort will run from September 2025 to July 2026.
Q: How can I apply?
A: Applications typically open once a year. You can find updates and application instructions on our website or social media channels.
Q: What happens after the Fellowship ends?
A: Fellows join our Alumni Network, where they can stay connected, receive continued support, contribute with volunteerism, and access leadership opportunities within the Alliance and PSI.
Follow their journey
Follow our Fellows’ inspiring paths and get real-time updates by connecting with us on our social media channels!
