Antigua and Barbuda is poised to launch a groundbreaking mental health initiative as the Antigua and Barbuda Holistic Coalition (ABHC) announces the official commencement of its Youth Mental Health Fund on March 18, 2026. This pioneering program will provide substantial financial assistance to young citizens seeking mental health services across the twin-island nation.
The comprehensive scheme will offer eligible youth vouchers worth up to EC$240 annually to access critical mental health services including individual counseling, family therapy, group sessions, psychiatric care, and psychological evaluations. The program specifically targets residents aged 6 to 25 who are either currently receiving or seeking mental health support.
Strategic implementation will feature three distinct application cycles throughout 2026, with families permitted multiple applications. However, the program establishes clear parameters: recipients cannot exceed the EC$240 annual cap, and all vouchers must be utilized within 90 days of approval. Funding allocation will be contingent upon both eligibility and resource availability.
In preparation for the launch, ABHC has curated a network of verified mental health professionals who have formally partnered with the initiative. These practitioners represent diverse specializations and service age groups:
– Dr. Chenelle Joseph, MD (Internal Medicine and Psychiatry) serving ages 10-25
– Feona Charles-Richards, MSc (Counselling Psychology) serving ages 6-25
– Kendra Telesford, M.A.C.P. (Canadian Certified Counsellor) serving ages 6-25
– Nicola Reefe-Babb, MSc (Counselling Psychology) serving ages 13-25
– Regina Apparicio, MSc (Counselling Psychology) serving ages 18-25
– Terese Millet-Joseph, MSc (Counseling Psychology) serving ages 20-25
The coalition has verified all professional credentials through supporting documentation while maintaining that selection of providers remains the responsibility of applicants and families. ABHC explicitly notes it does not guarantee services nor monitor the clinical care provided by listed professionals.
Prospective applicants can access the application portal through the coalition’s official event page as this transformative initiative seeks to dramatically improve mental health accessibility for youth and families throughout Antigua and Barbuda.