DEI Committee
The EFT Tampa Bay Community is dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusivity within the field of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). The mission is to provide financial support and professional development opportunities specifically for clinicians of color, as well as under-represented and underserved clinicians who are committed to advancing their expertise in EFT.
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Who We Are
The DEI Committee oversees scholarship initiatives intended to assist with the costs associated with EFT training, workshops, and the certification process. Through this work, we seek to empower clinicians of color to enhance their skills, contribute to the field with their unique perspectives, and better serve diverse communities. By investing in the professional growth of these clinicians, the EFT Tampa Bay community aims to enrich the practice of EFT and promote access to high-quality, culturally competent therapy.
EFT Tampa Bay reaffirms its commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and professional excellence, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being and mental health of the communities served.
Quote from ICEEFT on Inclusion
"You are welcome here. Whether you are in an Indigenous, black, brown, asian, latinx, hispanic or white body. Whether you are in your body as gender non-binary, two-spirited, female or male. Whether you are in your body as bisexual, gay, lesbian, trans, pansexual, queer or heterosexual. Whether your body has seen many years or few. Whatever limits your body has, you are welcome. Whatever context you have come from, we welcome you.
It is our goal to create a safe learning space for all. We want you to feel safe to bring your whole self, all of your humanity, without any fear of being discriminated against. We want you to feel you belong here. We will share this space and we will learn from each other.
Respectfully,"
- Robin Williams Blake and ICEEFT
DEI Committee Impact to Date
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Advocated for the inclusion of ICEEFT-certified trainers from diverse backgrounds to lead trainings in the Tampa Bay area
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Provided financial support to 11 clinicians for Externship participation in 2025
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Supported 3 clinicians in completing Core Skills (Modules 1–4) in 2025
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Funded 4 clinicians to attend EFIT Essentials training in 2026
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Strengthened representation within the EFT Tampa Bay community
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Expanded access to EFT trainings for clinicians of color with demonstrated financial need
Scholarship Opportunities
To be considered for these scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Identity: Must identify as a clinician of color, (e.g., Black, Latinx, Indigenous, Asian), LGBTQIA+ individuals, Immigrants or refugees, Individuals with disabilities, People from low-income or economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Location: Must reside and practice within Hillsborough, Pasco, or Pinellas Counties
Clinical Practice: Commit to using EFT with at least 25% of their caseload
Commitment: Must participate in at least 6 EFT Tampa Bay consultation meetings within one year.
Investment: Willing to invest in yourself with a payment ranging from $200-$495. Investment amount may vary depending on available scholarship funding.
Contact DEI Chair Meagan Gillespie, LMFT at MGillespie.LMFT@gmail.com for more information or eligibility confirmation.
DEI Mentorship Program
Mentorship Program designed to support clinicians of color pursuing training, certification, and professional growth in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). The program will provide relational support, guidance, and professional encouragement to reduce barriers to advancement and promote retention within the EFT community.
More Mentors Needed!!!
Mentors must be committed to equity, cultural humility, and mentorship. If you are interested in becoming a mentor and are EFT-certified or experienced EFT clinicians in good standing with EFT Tampa Bay, please contact the DEI Chair, Meagan Gillespie, LMFT at MGillespie.LMFT@gmail.com for more information or eligibility confirmation.
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There is currently a growing waitlist for mentees. If you would like to join the waitlist contact