Start a Committee or Special Interest Group

Have an idea? Help us build our EBCAMFT community!

East Bay CAMFT is always looking for new ways to bring our members together, foster professional growth, and create meaningful connections within the mental health community.

Do you have an idea for a committee, special interest group, peer support group, or networking opportunity? We encourage our members to take an active role in shaping the future of our chapter!

Whether your interest is in a specific clinical population, professional development, cultural identity, community advocacy, or connecting with fellow therapists, we welcome your ideas.

Types of Groups You Can Start

Special Interest Groups (SIGs)

Groups centered around a shared clinical interest, specialty, identity, or professional experience. These groups may focus on discussion, networking, resource sharing, or professional support.

Examples include Women's Mental Health, Therapists of Color, LGBTQIA+ Mental Health, Trauma-Informed Care, or Private Practice Development.

Committees

Groups established to support specific chapter goals, projects, or initiatives. Committees may assist with membership engagement, diversity and inclusion, community outreach, professional development, or other chapter priorities.

Peer Support and Networking Groups

Member-led groups that provide opportunities for therapists to connect, exchange ideas, share professional experiences, and build supportive relationships.

These may include regional networking groups, associate therapist support groups, or specialty-focused professional gatherings.

How to Start a Group

Step 1: Develop Your Idea

Consider the purpose of your proposed group, who it would serve, and how it would benefit EBCAMFT members.

Step 2: Submit a Proposal

Email president@ebcamft.org with a brief description of your proposed group.

Please include:

• Proposed group or committee name

• Purpose and goals

• Intended audience or membership

• Proposed activities, discussions, or events

• Anticipated meeting frequency (monthly, quarterly, etc.)

• Your interest in serving as the group leader or chair

• Any anticipated chapter support or resources needed

A formal proposal document is not required. A brief email outlining your ideas is a great place to start!

Step 3: Meet With Chapter Leadership

The EBCAMFT President or a designated board representative may schedule a one-on-one Zoom meeting to discuss your proposal, answer questions, and explore how your group could fit within the chapter.

Step 4: Board Appointment and Approval

All proposed EBCAMFT committees, special interest groups, and member-led groups must go through the chapter's formal appointment and approval process.

In accordance with Article V of the EBCAMFT Bylaws, the President or Board of Directors may appoint ad hoc committees and special interest groups, with appointments requiring ratification by the Board of Directors at the following board meeting.

Groups may not officially represent or operate under EBCAMFT until the required appointment and ratification process is completed.

Step 5: Launch Your Group!

Once approved, chapter leadership will work with the appointed group leader to establish meeting schedules, expectations, communication guidelines, and any available chapter support.

Approved groups may be eligible for promotion through EBCAMFT communication channels, including the chapter website, E-Tree, and social media, subject to chapter guidelines.

Expectations for Group Leaders

We ask that appointed committee chairs and group leaders:

• Maintain active EBCAMFT membership in good standing.

• Organize and facilitate meetings or activities consistent with the group's approved purpose.

• Foster a welcoming, respectful, inclusive, and professional environment.

• Maintain communication with the President or designated board liaison.

• Provide periodic updates regarding group activities, participation, and goals.

• Coordinate chapter-wide events, communications, and resource requests with board leadership.

• Follow EBCAMFT bylaws, policies, and professional standards.

• Obtain board authorization before making financial commitments or representing chapter positions publicly.

Group leaders are volunteers and do not automatically become voting members of the Board of Directors.