At Banyan Tree Counseling & Wellness and Banyan Integrated Health, we recognize that true healing and growth can only occur in an environment of radical inclusivity, compassion, and understanding.

Like the Banyan tree that extends its branches to create a sanctuary for all, we are committed to nurturing a space where every individual's unique identity and experience is honored and celebrated.

Our approach is rooted in Buddhist philosophical principles that emphasize the interconnected nature of all beings and our shared responsibility to reduce suffering. These ancient wisdom traditions teach us that genuine compassion (karuna) and loving-kindness (metta) are essential for creating meaningful change.

Through mindful awareness, we work to recognize and address unconscious biases, while our commitment to non-harm (ahimsa) guides us in actively preventing and addressing inequity in all its forms.

We understand that systemic inequities and discrimination create additional layers of trauma and barriers to wellness that must be actively addressed in our practice and policies. By embracing these timeless principles of wisdom and compassion, we strive to create a truly inclusive and healing environment for all who seek our care.
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Our Core Committments

​Radical Inclusivity & Active Anti-Discrimination

• We actively welcome and affirm people of all races, ethnicities, nationalities, immigration statuses, gender identities, sexual orientations, disabilities, neurodiversities, religions, spiritual beliefs, socioeconomic backgrounds, body sizes, and ages
• We recognize intersectionality and how multiple identities shape each person's unique lived experience
• We maintain zero tolerance for discrimination, harassment, or bias of any kind
• We provide reasonable accommodations for staff and clients as needed
  
  

Equitable Access to Care

• We accept various insurance plans to make mental health care more financially accessible
• We offer limited reduced-rate fees for uninsured clients experiencing financial hardship 
• We provide both in-person and virtual services to accommodate different needs and circumstances
• We ensure our physical spaces are accessible
• We offer language interpretation intake/administrative services for non-English speaking clients
• ​We accommodate various communication needs and preferences
  
  

Cultural Humility & Staff Development

• We practice cultural humility, acknowledging that cultural competence is an ongoing journey
• We require staff to complete trainings in the following categories:
  1. Cultural competency training 
  2. Implicit bias awareness training
  3. Microaggression recognition and response training
  4. Crisis intervention and de-escalation training
  5. Mental Health is a Social Justice Issue 
• We evaluate training effectiveness through assessments and feedback
• ​We incorporate culturally-responsive and trauma-informed approaches in all services
• We acknowledge and respect traditional healing practices from various cultures

Social Justice & Advocacy

• We recognize mental health as a social justice issue
• We actively work to identify and dismantle systemic barriers to mental health care
• We aim to create and continue partnerships with community organizations to expand access to mental health resources
• We commit to using our platform to amplify marginalized voices

 Accountability & Documentation
 
Feedback & Growth Procedures
We encourage open dialogue about JEDI related experiences and concerns through:

• Direct communication with supervisors
• Anonymous feedback form
• Email/written feedback 
  
  

When feedback is received:

• All communication is documented and stored securely
• Each situation is thoughtfully reviewed in a timely manner
• ​Confidentiality is maintained at all times
• Responses are carefully considered and implemented
  
  

Our Approach to Resolution:

• Take a proactive and positive approach
• Give all parties the benefit of the doubt
• Maintain high standards while leading with kindness and compassion
• Focus on education and supportive feedback
• Create opportunities for learning and growth
• Zero tolerance for shame-based or punitive responses
• Support all individuals in their journey of understanding and improvement

Progress Tracking

1. We conduct bi-annual reviews of JEDI metrics and goals
2. We maintain secure records of all JEDI-related incidents and resolutions
3. We perform annual assessments of policy effectiveness
4. We collect anonymous demographic data to identify service gaps
5. We document all training completion and effectiveness

 Policy Review & Updates

This policy will be:

• Reviewed bi-annually by our leadership team
• Updated annually or as needed to reflect new best practices
• Distributed to all staff members upon updates
• Available to clients upon request
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We recognize that creating an equitable and inclusive environment is an ongoing journey of growth and learning. This JEDI policy will continue to evolve as our understanding deepens and as the needs of our community change. We welcome ongoing feedback with open hearts and minds, knowing that we are all doing our best as we work together toward positive change. Our approach is grounded in kindness, compassion, and love, as we believe these are the foundations for creating meaningful transformation in our practice and our world.