We are thrilled to introduce you to our new Senior Director of Clinical Services, Allyson Holmes-Knight, PhD! With immense pride, we welcome Allyson to our team, a highly regarded Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience working tirelessly to bridge gaps in mental health care access for communities of color.
Allyson’s journey in the realm of mental health began at the esteemed Pacific Graduate School of Psychology in Palo Alto, CA, where her passion for addressing mental health disparities took root. She completed her dissertation, titled “The Importance of Others: Evaluating the Impact of Perceived Social Support as a Mediator of Depressive Symptoms in Ethnic Minority Youth,” a testament to her dedication to understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by ethnic minority youth.
After her academic achievements, Allyson embarked on her mission to make a difference in the lives of children and families. Her career took off at Westcoast Children’s Clinic in Oakland, where she honed her expertise and worked tirelessly to provide quality mental health care. Allyson’s commitment to her community led her to establish a private practice focusing on supporting women of color, a testament to her dedication to empowering and uplifting others.
Allyson’s passion for mental health advocacy extends beyond her professional life. As a mother of four boys, she understands the importance of nurturing the mental well-being of future generations. Her personal experiences fuel her drive to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for families, especially in communities of color.
Being a Bay Area native, Allyson has a deep love for her community. She’s not just a dedicated professional but also a die-hard Golden State Warriors fan, showcasing her unwavering loyalty to her local team. Her love for the Bay Area is palpable, and we are privileged to have her expertise and passion within our organization.
As the Sr Director of Clinical Services, Allyson will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of mental health care at JFCS East Bay. Her extensive experience, coupled with her compassion and dedication, will undoubtedly inspire positive change within our organization and the communities we serve.
Please join us in welcoming Allyson Holmes-Knight, PhD, to the JFCS East Bay family. Together, let’s continue our mission to provide accessible, high-quality mental health care for all.