About AMEN Project

AMEN Team

About AMEN Project

The Advancing Mental Health and Emotional Nourishment (AMEN) Project at The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing is a community-based initiative designed to reduce health disparities and improve mental and physical wellness outcomes for Travis County community members, particularly those with limited access to quality care. 

Our Mission

Our mission is to reduce mental health stigma and improve access to mental health education, resources, and navigation services.

Our Focus

Our focus is to increase awareness, improve mental health literacy, and connect individuals to culturally responsive mental health care and support services.

Our Goals

Advance Mental and Emotional Well-Being Through AMEN

Implement a faith-based quality improvement intervention, Advancing Mental and Emotional Nourishment (AMEN) to reduce negative perceptions of mental health support among the Travis County community.

Build Strong Community Partnerships for Mental Health

Expand the networks of community resources to build stronger and more effective community relationships between faith-based partners and community organizations.

Create a Sustainable Community Wellness Model

Create a sustainable model for promoting mental health and wellness that best meets the needs of the community.

Our Objectives

Increase Mental Health Knowledge and Awareness

To provide culturally tailored mental health education that improves participants’ understanding of mental health conditions, coping strategies, and available resources.

Reduce Mental Health Stigma

To decrease stigma and negative perceptions related to mental illness within the Travis County community through workshops, outreach, and engagement activities.

Improve Access to Mental Health Resources and Navigation

To connect participants to appropriate mental health services and supports, including referrals, navigation assistance, and community-based resources.

Our Services

Our services are designed to meet people where they are and are delivered in familiar, community-based settings.

Mental Health Education

Community-based educational programs that increase awareness and understanding of mental health conditions, coping strategies, and available support resources.

Mental Health Screenings

Screenings and wellness assessments that help community members identify potential mental health concerns and connect with appropriate support and resources.

Peer & Faith Leader Training

Training programs that equip peers, faith leaders, and community advocates with the knowledge and skills needed to recognize, support, and respond to mental health concerns.

Support, Referrals & Navigation Services

Guidance and support that connects individuals to culturally responsive mental health providers, community resources, support groups, counseling services, and other wellness programs.

Community Outreach & Engagement

Mental health promotion and education delivered through community events, faith-based gatherings, workshops, and local partnerships to increase awareness and reduce stigma.

Organizational Training & Technical Assistance

Capacity-building support for community organizations and faith-based partners seeking to develop, strengthen, and sustain mental health and wellness initiatives.