Duke Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) division faculty members MaryBeth Gallagher, PhD, and Antoine Bailliard, PhD, have launched an innovative community-based mental health non-profit. The Center for Community Connection (C4CC), led by executive director Darren Peters, an occupational therapist, will promote well-being, mental health equity, and occupational justice by enhancing participation in meaningful activities and cultivating human social connection.
In close collaboration with community stakeholders, C4CC will use a multilevel approach to address mental health. C4CC will be led by trauma-focused occupational therapists and supported by a comprehensive multidisciplinary team to offer assessments, psychosocial therapies, and nutrition services, piloting in Chatham, Durham, and Wake Counties. As a partner of Duke OTD, C4CC will support occupational therapy students' learning about community mental health through fieldwork placements and capstone opportunities. Ultimately, C4CC aims to create supportive community-based networks that uplift individuals facing mental health challenges and promote social connection, belonging, and accessible, equitable mental health care.