Health Equity in Action

I am an Indigenous woman trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) who offers telehealth services to underserved communities in Arizona. As a Navajo woman, I believe that healthcare should be accessible, culturally informed and of high quality. I started my company to meet a personal need, that then transformed during Covid due to the needs of many communities. Telehealth is not a new invention, but the way we at TRSAZ use telehealth, is what differentiates us from others.

I'm taking a multifaceted approach to tackle health equity. Here's how I am doing it:

1. Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding the unique cultural backgrounds and needs of Indigenous communities is essential. TRSAZ tailors our approach to respect cultural beliefs, practices, and values, making our services more accessible and acceptable to the communities she serves. We do work both in urban and rural areas and serve Navajo Nation Veterans and community members.

2. EMDR Therapy: Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR therapy) is an evidenced based psychotherapy approach that helps individuals heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that result from disturbing life experiences. By offering EMDR therapy via telehealth, we are providing a valuable mental health service that might otherwise be inaccessible due to geographical or resource constraints. Not only do we provide EMDR, but I have authored the first chapter on using EMDR with Indigenous populations and work to train other EMDR practitioners to use this life changing modality.

3. Telehealth Accessibility: Telehealth breaks down barriers to access by allowing people to receive care remotely, especially in rural or underserved areas where transportation or specialist services may be limited. By providing telehealth services, we are is ensuring that individuals in remote Indigenous communities can access mental health support without needing to travel long distances.

4. Community Engagement: Building trust within the communities we serve is crucial. We frequently engage with community leaders, elders, and members to understand their needs better and to ensure her services are culturally appropriate and welcomed.

5. Education and Outreach: Offering educational resources and outreach programs about mental health and the benefits of therapy can help reduce stigma and increase awareness within Indigenous communities. TRSAZ may conducts workshops, webinars, and community events to promote mental health literacy and encourage individuals to seek support when needed.

6. Advocacy and Policy: Addressing health equity issues often involves advocating for policy changes at local, state, or national levels. I am engaged in advocacy efforts to increase funding for mental health services in underserved areas, improve insurance coverage for telehealth, or promote culturally competent care within the healthcare system.

By combining her expertise in EMDR therapy with a commitment to cultural sensitivity, accessibility, community engagement, education, and advocacy, this Indigenous woman is making significant strides in addressing health equity and improving mental health outcomes for underserved communities in Arizona.

We provide live HITECH compliant telehealth to our patients. Taking HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) compliance is crucial in healthcare, especially when it comes to telehealth services where patient information is transmitted electronically. When discussing "hitech compliant live telehealth video," we're referring to telehealth platforms that meet the security and privacy standards outlined by HIPAA and the HITECH (Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health) Act.

Here's how a HIPAA-compliant live telehealth video system typically works:

1. Secure Communication: The telehealth platform employs encryption and secure communication protocols to ensure that video, audio, and data transmissions between the healthcare provider and the patient are protected from unauthorized access or interception.

2. User Authentication: Both the healthcare provider and the patient must authenticate themselves before accessing the telehealth session. This often involves username and password authentication, as well as additional security measures like two-factor authentication for added protection.

3. Protected Health Information (PHI) Safeguards: The platform ensures that all patient information, including medical records, diagnosis, and treatment plans, is securely stored and transmitted in compliance with HIPAA regulations. This may involve data encryption, access controls, and audit trails to track and monitor PHI access.

4. Consent and Privacy: Patients must provide informed consent before participating in telehealth sessions. The platform may include features to facilitate the exchange of consent forms and ensure that patients understand the risks and benefits of telehealth services, as well as their privacy rights. Our providers also document consent, obtain emergency contacts and clients self-identify community resources they will use in an emergency.

5. Session Management: The telehealth platform allows healthcare providers to schedule, conduct, and manage telehealth sessions efficiently. This includes features for scheduling appointments, sending reminders to patients, initiating video calls, and documenting session notes securely.

6. Technical Support and Compliance Assistance: TRSAZ staff offer technical support to ensure that healthcare providers and patients can use the platform effectively and securely. Additionally, we continue to stay informed about the law, regulations, recommendations and resources to help TRSAZ maintain compliance with HIPAA and HITECH regulations.

Overall, a HIPAA-compliant live telehealth video system prioritizes the security, privacy, and integrity of patient information while enabling remote healthcare delivery. By adhering to these standards, healthcare providers at TRSAZ can leverage telehealth technology to expand access to care while maintaining regulatory compliance and safeguarding patient confidentiality.

TRSAZ is doing incredibly important work addressing critical issues within the Navajo Nation community, including historical trauma, combat trauma, and domestic violence (DV) victim services for both adults and children. Here's how we are facilitating this work:

1. Culturally Tailored Programs: Given the unique cultural context of the Navajo Nation, it's crucial to develop and implement programs that are culturally sensitive and relevant. We have begun integrating traditional healing practices using storytelling with Navajo Nation Veterans, and offer community-based approaches in our mental health and DV victim services. We have therapy staff who are Navajo and have critical awareness of what these communities face and have EMDR training to better facilitate trauma informed care principles and provide supports to those deeply impacted by trauma. This is congruent with the Diné Action Plan that has recently been reshared by current NN President Buu Nygren. This plan encourages the use of culture and modern philosophies to improve the mental health of residents. 

2. Collaboration and Partnership: We work closely with the Navajo Nation Veterans and ICWA (Indian Child Welfare Act) departments, as well as other relevant tribal agencies, community organizations, and stakeholders. Our goal is to increase access and awareness of resources, share expertise, and ensure that services are coordinated and integrated effectively. We have also created educational material for the Tribe to share with those impacted by the boarding school fraud and abuse situations that have recently occurred in Arizona.

3. Hybrid Service Delivery Model: We are piloting and applying to begin a hybrid service delivery model, which combines in-person and telehealth services, is well-suited for addressing the unique challenges of providing mental health and DV victim services in remote and underserved areas. Our goal is to continue refining and expanding this model to reach more individuals and communities across the Navajo Nation. We have done some Story Telling Circles on the Navajo Nation through the NN Veterans Administration and offer online support groups for Indigenous Veterans and Arizona Veterans through a collaboration with a third-party entity. We continue to leverage ways to increase access to care to mental health support to the Navajo Nation and other tribe entities in Arizona.

By continuing to prioritize cultural sensitivity, collaboration, capacity building via staff development, and the use of evidence-based practices, TRSAZ plays a crucial role in improving access to quality mental health and DV victim services for individuals and families across the Navajo Nation.

Jordanna's leadership at TRSAZ exemplifies a holistic approach to mental health care, deeply rooted in Navajo spirituality and culture. Here's how her team, combined with their telehealth capabilities and collaborative efforts with the NN Veterans staff and NN ICWA manager, is uniquely positioned to serve the Navajo Nation:

1. Cultural Competence and Sensitivity: Jordanna's upbringing and personal experiences provide a strong foundation for understanding and incorporating Navajo cultural beliefs and practices into mental health treatment. This ensures that therapy is culturally relevant and resonant with Navajo clients, fostering trust and engagement in the therapeutic process.

2. Compassionate Care: The team's emphasis on compassion creates a nurturing and supportive environment for clients, validating their experiences and promoting healing. This compassionate approach aligns with Navajo values of empathy, respect, and interconnectedness, fostering a sense of safety and belonging for clients.

3. Non-Traditional Therapy Modalities: By integrating non-traditional therapy modalities like EMDR, TRSAZ offers innovative approaches to address trauma and other mental health concerns. These modalities complement traditional healing practices, providing clients with a diverse range of therapeutic options tailored to their needs and preferences.

4. Diverse Team Composition: TRSAZ's team reflects the diversity of the Navajo Nation, with BIPOC therapists who bring unique perspectives and experiences to their work. This diversity promotes cultural understanding and responsiveness within the team, enhancing the quality and effectiveness of services provided.

5. Telehealth Accessibility: Utilizing telehealth expands access to mental health services for underserved communities within the Navajo Nation, overcoming barriers related to geography and transportation. Telehealth enables clients to receive therapy from the comfort of their own homes, increasing convenience and reducing stigma associated with seeking mental health care.

6. Collaborative Partnerships: Collaboration with NN Veterans staff and NN ICWA manager ensures that services are responsive to the specific needs and priorities of Navajo veterans, families, and children. By incorporating input from these stakeholders, TRSAZ can tailor its services to address critical issues such as combat trauma and domestic violence within the community.

Overall, TRSAZ's culturally informed approach, commitment to innovation, and collaborative partnerships position it as a vital resource for promoting mental health and wellness among the Navajo Nation, addressing the unique challenges and strengths of the community with sensitivity and expertise.

TRSAZ's growth stage represents an exciting opportunity to expand its impact and reach within the Navajo Nation community. Since being in business since 2017 and becoming a group practice in 2019, we've delivered thousands of live telehealth sessions. As a growing company, we've increased our reach to support Navajo Nation patients in 2024.  TRSAZ has successfully implemented in-person Talking Circles to NN Veterans, has launched virtual Veteran Support Groups and is working to increase access to therapy for NN children who have been displaced from their homes and communities and are being served by NN ICWA.

TRSAZ is working to continue to build upon its successful initiatives and address identified goals, barriers, and needs through the following activities:

1. Telehealth Expansion: Continuing to leverage telehealth to increase access to trauma-informed therapy for Navajo Nation members, particularly those in remote or underserved areas. Expand telehealth services to reach more individuals and families who may face barriers to accessing traditional in-person therapy.

2. Scaling Talking Circles: Building on the success of Talking Circles with Navajo Nation Veterans, consider scaling this culturally relevant and effective approach to trauma healing to reach a broader audience within the community. This may involve training additional facilitators and establishing more Talking Circle groups in different locations. We have been invited to facilitate more groups on the Navajo Nation and are in the planning stages to implement these services.

3. ICWA Referrals and Therapy: TRSAZ will continue to work closely with the NN ICWA manager to streamline the referral process and ensure that Navajo children and families involved with ICWA have timely access to trauma-informed therapy services. Collaborate with ICWA caseworkers to identify and address any barriers or challenges that may impede access to therapy for these populations. TRSAZ is in-network with AHCCCS American Indian Health Plan services are covered by insurance.

4. Community Outreach and Education: TRSAZ will conduct community outreach and educational initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and trauma-informed care within the Navajo Nation. Provide culturally relevant resources and information to empower community members to seek help and support when needed. We are doing in-person outreach and networking as we’ve been invited by the Western NN office to participate in upcoming events.

By focusing on telehealth expansion, scaling successful interventions like Talking Circles, addressing ICWA referral and conducting community outreach, TRSAZ can continue to grow and make a meaningful difference in the mental health and well-being of Navajo Nation members.

I am applying to MIT Solve for Indigenous solutions because it is an excellent opportunity to gain support and resources for scaling TRSAZ's impactful work. I believe that Indigenous wisdom keepers such as myself hold the keys to the future of the nations.

TRSAZ's integration of EMDR therapy with Diné cultural awareness and knowledge represents a unique and innovative approach to addressing mental health needs within the Navajo Nation. These programs are already reaching vulnerable populations such as children, veterans, DV survivors, and ICWA families. Only a Diné woman who has the necessary trauma training can bridge the divide between the two worlds of Diné culture and mental health accessibility.

I believe in TRSAZ's potential for scalability, particularly through the expansion of telehealth services and the development of proprietary software. My vision for scaling these initiatives could increase access to trauma-informed therapy for Indigenous communities beyond the Navajo Nation. I envision a world where the trappings of genocide no longer hold Tribal nations back and instead are used as strengths to rebuild health communities and reduce mental, physical and emotional barriers.

I have a strong desire for high level Professional Coaching through MIT Solve to support TRSAZ's growth and development. Coaching can help me navigate challenges related to scaling, software development, and increasing awareness of my approach. The hardest part about being a cycle breaker is feeling alone and having unanswered questions.

I have a strong willingness to collaborate with other Solve members, partners, and stakeholders to leverage collective expertise and resources in addressing Indigenous solutions. For me, collaboration is essential to continue to maximize impact and sustainability. This work can only be improved and amplified with the support of MIT and Solve supports.

We have already gotten verbal feedback from elderly Navajo Veterans that our work with them has been lifechanging and has given them the opportunity to speak about and release pains and things they haven’t been able to release. Trauma informed care practices delivered in a holistic manner lend themselves to life sustaining responses & it motivated me and my staff-we want to continue this work for generations to come. Achieving my goals through Solve could contribute to a broader movement towards equity, resilience, and healing within Indigenous communities worldwide. Interconnection is a fundamental value of my Tribe. Please help me continue this great work on a larger scale. Thank you for your time, energy and for reading my application.

I was born and raised on the Navajo Nation and grew up in Crownpoint NM. I was raised by my parents and my maternal grandmother. I am a runner, mom, artist, Navajo weaver, mentor, trainer and Licensed Professional and Board Certified Counselor.  I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at the University of Arizona in Tucson.  I minored in American Indian Studies and Anthropology before completing my Masters of Counseling degree at Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona. My family still resides on the Navajo Nation and I am deeply connected to the New Mexico Indigenous entrepreneurship network in the southwest. 

Our solutions focus lies in its fusion of Navajo cultural teachings with evidence-based therapies like EMDR and telehealth. Here's why this approach is innovative:

1. Cultural Relevance: By integrating Navajo cultural teachings and values into mental health therapy, TRSAZ ensures that treatment is culturally relevant and resonant with Navajo clients. This approach acknowledges the importance of cultural identity, spirituality, and community in healing, fostering a deeper sense of connection and trust between clients and therapists.

2. Evidenced-Based Therapies: Incorporating evidence-based therapies like EMDR demonstrates TRSAZ's commitment to providing high-quality, effective mental health care. EMDR has been extensively researched and proven effective in treating trauma and other mental health conditions, making it a valuable tool for addressing the unique needs of Navajo individuals and families.

3. Telehealth Accessibility: Leveraging telehealth to deliver therapy expands access to mental health services for Navajo Nation members, particularly those in remote or underserved areas. Telehealth overcomes barriers related to geography, transportation, and stigma, allowing clients to receive therapy from the comfort of their own homes.

4. Holistic Approach: TRSAZ's approach considers the holistic well-being of clients, addressing not only their mental health needs but also their cultural, spiritual, and community connections. This holistic approach recognizes that healing involves more than just symptom reduction—it encompasses restoration of balance and harmony within the individual and their environment.

5. Cross-Cultural Synthesis: The synthesis of Navajo cultural knowledge with evidence-based therapies represents a cross-cultural exchange that enriches both traditions. By respectfully integrating Navajo teachings into therapy practices, TRSAZ creates a space for dialogue, learning, and mutual understanding between Indigenous and Western healing modalities.

Overall, TRSAZ's innovative solution recognizes the importance of honoring cultural heritage while embracing modern therapeutic approaches, ultimately leading to more effective and culturally responsive mental health care for the Navajo Nation.

Our solutions focus lies in its fusion of Navajo cultural teachings with evidence-based therapies like EMDR and telehealth.

Overall, TRSAZ's innovative solution recognizes the importance of honoring cultural heritage while embracing modern therapeutic approaches, ultimately leading to more effective and culturally responsive mental health care for the Navajo Nation. The theory of change behind TRSAZ's project involves a step-by-step framework outlining how the organization's activities and interventions lead to its desired outcomes.

Activities we use: 

TRSAZ conducts a range of activities, including providing trauma-informed therapy using evidence-based modalities like EMDR, offering culturally sensitive care that integrates Navajo cultural teachings and values, facilitating telehealth services to improve access to care, and implementing community-based interventions such as Talking Circles.

As a result of these activities, TRSAZ produces outputs such as the number of therapy sessions conducted, the reach of telehealth services, the participation in Talking Circles, and the training of local therapists and community leaders.

These outputs lead to various short-term, intermediate, and long-term outcomes:

   - Short-term outcomes may include increased awareness of mental health issues within the Navajo Nation, improved access to trauma-informed therapy, and enhanced cultural understanding among TRSAZ staff. Increase the number of delievered telehealth sessions provided to the underserved/those in remote areas and those lacking access to evidence based/trauma informed/culturally informed therapies. 

   - Intermediate outcomes may involve reductions in symptoms of trauma, increased coping skills and resilience among clients, and strengthened community support networks. We may see healthier communities over time, health individuals contribute to healthy families. 

     - Long-term outcomes encompass sustainable improvements in mental health outcomes, increased empowerment and agency among Navajo individuals and families, and a broader culture of well-being and resilience within the Navajo Nation.

Ultimately, the culmination of these outcomes leads to the overarching impact of TRSAZ's project, which is meaningful and sustainable change within the Navajo Nation. This includes reduced disparities in mental health care, increased cultural acceptance of mental health support, and improved overall well-being and resilience among Navajo individuals and communities.

Throughout the process, TRSAZ continuously gathers feedback from clients, community members, and stakeholders to inform its interventions and make necessary adaptations. This iterative approach ensures that TRSAZ remains responsive to the evolving needs and contexts within the Navajo Nation.

By following this theory of change, TRSAZ aims to create a positive and lasting impact on mental health outcomes and well-being within the Navajo Nation, grounded in cultural relevance, evidence-based practices, and community engagement.

TRSAZ's impact is directly correlated with reduced disparities in mental health care. TRSAZ's efforts contribute to reducing disparities in mental health care within the Navajo Nation by increasing access to culturally sensitive and evidence-based therapy. This leads to more equitable access to mental health services for individuals and families who may have historically faced barriers to care due to geographical, cultural, or systemic factors.

Increased Cultural Acceptance of Mental Health Support

Through its culturally sensitive approach, TRSAZ helps to destigmatize mental health issues within the Navajo community. By integrating Navajo cultural teachings and values into therapy, TRSAZ fosters a greater acceptance and understanding of mental health support, encouraging individuals to seek help when needed and promoting a culture of openness and support.

Improved Overall Well-being and Resilience

TRSAZ's interventions aim to improve the overall well-being and resilience of Navajo individuals and communities. By addressing trauma, building coping skills, and strengthening support networks, TRSAZ empowers individuals to navigate life's challenges more effectively and build a foundation for long-term resilience and thriving.

Enhanced Community Cohesion and Empowerment

TRSAZ's work contributes to building stronger, more connected communities within the Navajo Nation. Through initiatives such as Talking Circles and community-based interventions, TRSAZ fosters a sense of belonging, solidarity, and collective empowerment among Navajo individuals and families, enabling them to support one another and advocate for positive change within their communities.

Long-term Systemic Change

Ultimately, TRSAZ's impact extends beyond individual and community-level outcomes to catalyze long-term systemic change within the Navajo Nation's mental health landscape. By promoting culturally responsive and community-driven approaches to mental health care, TRSAZ helps to shift norms, policies, and practices within the broader healthcare system, leading to more equitable, accessible, and effective mental health services for all Navajo Nation members.

Through these impactful outcomes, TRSAZ contributes to creating a brighter and healthier future for the Navajo Nation, where individuals and communities thrive with resilience, strength, and cultural pride.

TRSAZ's solution harnesses a combination of modern and traditional technologies to provide culturally sensitive and effective mental health care to the Navajo Nation. Here's how:

1. Telehealth Platforms: Modern telehealth platforms enable TRSAZ to deliver therapy remotely, overcoming barriers of distance and accessibility. These platforms facilitate secure video conferencing, messaging, and file sharing, allowing therapists to connect with clients in real-time and provide support regardless of their location. Patients can engage in live video or live telephone depending on their access to data, technology and what resources are available to them at any given time. 

2. Proprietary Software: TRSAZ may develop proprietary software tailored to the specific needs of its clients and the Navajo community. This software could include features such as appointment scheduling, client intake forms, outcome tracking tools, and culturally relevant educational resources, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of TRSAZ's services.

3. EMDR Technology: For therapists trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), modern EMDR technology tools may be utilized to facilitate therapy sessions. These tools often include devices or software programs designed to stimulate bilateral eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation (tapping, sound, etc), which are integral to the EMDR therapy process.

4. Cultural Teaching Materials: Traditional technologies such as storytelling, oral teachings, and ceremonial practices are incorporated into TRSAZ's therapy sessions to honor Navajo cultural heritage and teachings. These traditional technologies serve as vehicles for transmitting knowledge, wisdom, and healing practices from one generation to the next, enriching the therapeutic experience and fostering cultural continuity and resilience.

5. Talking Circles: Talking Circles are a culturally relevant intervention used by TRSAZ to facilitate group therapy sessions. This ancient Indigenous practice harnesses the power of connection, circle gatherings and storytelling to promote healing, connection, and community support among participants, aligning with Navajo traditions of communal healing and collective wisdom.

By integrating modern telehealth platforms, proprietary software, EMDR technology, and traditional cultural technologies such as storytelling and Talking Circles, TRSAZ creates a comprehensive and culturally responsive approach to mental health care for the Navajo Nation. This innovative blend of modern and traditional technologies ensures that TRSAZ's services are accessible, effective, and deeply rooted in Navajo cultural values and practices.

Arizona, United States. We would like to expand to Colorado and New Mexico.

NM and Colorado.

We presently have 4 full time staff, 6 part-time staff and usually have 1-2 interns that work with us at TRSAZ.

Since 2019, but the collaboration and connections just came into existance in the last year for us to work directly with Navajo Nation folks residing on the Reservation and in the Phoenix Metro Area.

TRSAZ's commitment to equity is exemplified by its diverse and robust team, which brings together individuals from varied backgrounds and experiences to effectively serve the Navajo Nation. Here's how TRSAZ ensures diversity and equity within its team:

1. Diverse Staff Composition: TRSAZ intentionally recruits staff members from diverse backgrounds, including individuals from different racial, ethnic, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds. This diversity reflects the diversity of the Navajo Nation community and ensures that TRSAZ's services are accessible and culturally responsive to all clients.

2. Cultural Competence: Members of TRSAZ's team undergo training in cultural competence, ensuring that they possess the knowledge, skills, and awareness necessary to effectively engage with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. This training includes education on Navajo history, traditions, and values, as well as sensitivity to the impact of historical trauma and systemic oppression on mental health.

3. Trauma-Informed Care: TRSAZ's team is trained in trauma-informed care, recognizing the prevalence and impact of trauma within Indigenous communities and adopting practices that promote safety, trust, and empowerment among clients. This trauma-informed approach ensures that clients are treated with sensitivity and respect, regardless of their background or experiences.

5. Equitable Hiring Practices: TRSAZ prioritizes equitable hiring practices, including actively seeking out candidates from underrepresented backgrounds and providing opportunities for professional development and advancement within the organization. This ensures that TRSAZ's team reflects the diversity of the communities it serves and promotes equity at all levels of the organization.

6. Community Engagement: TRSAZ actively engages with the Navajo Nation community to solicit feedback, input, and participation in its programs and initiatives. This community-centered approach ensures that TRSAZ's services are responsive to the needs and priorities of the community and are co-created in partnership with community members.

By fostering a diverse and inclusive team, TRSAZ demonstrates its commitment to equity and ensures that its services are accessible, culturally responsive, and effective in addressing the mental health needs of the Navajo Nation. Through collaboration, compassion, and cultural humility, TRSAZ's team works together to promote healing, resilience, and well-being within the community.

TRSAZ's innovative business model blends for-profit elements with a commitment to providing affordable mental health services to the Navajo Nation community. Here's how this hybrid model operates:

1. **For-Profit Structure**: TRSAZ operates as a for-profit entity, allowing it to generate revenue through various sources, including commercial insurance reimbursements, third-party payers, and private payments from clients who can afford therapy services. This for-profit structure enables TRSAZ to sustain its operations, invest in staff training and development, and maintain the quality of its services.

2. **Affordable Services**: Despite its for-profit status, TRSAZ is dedicated to providing therapy services at low or no cost to clients who may not have the financial means to pay for treatment. To achieve this, TRSAZ leverages fiscal sponsorship arrangements with nonprofit organizations or philanthropic partners. These partnerships allow TRSAZ to access funding and resources to subsidize the cost of therapy sessions for clients in need, ensuring that mental health services remain accessible and affordable to all members of the Navajo Nation community.

3. **Revenue Diversification**: TRSAZ's business model prioritizes revenue diversification by tapping into multiple revenue streams, including commercial insurance, third-party payers, private payments, and philanthropic funding. This diversification strategy helps mitigate financial risks and dependencies on any single funding source, ensuring the financial sustainability and resilience of the organization over the long term.

4. **Fiscal Sponsorship**: By partnering with fiscal sponsors, TRSAZ can access resources and infrastructure typically associated with nonprofit organizations, such as tax-exempt status, grant eligibility, and fundraising support. This allows TRSAZ to expand its capacity to provide low or no-cost therapy services while maintaining the flexibility and agility of a for-profit entity.

5. **Community Impact**: TRSAZ's hybrid business model enables it to balance social impact with financial sustainability, aligning its mission to provide accessible mental health care with its goal of operating a viable business. By offering affordable therapy services to the Navajo Nation community, TRSAZ fulfills its commitment to equity, social justice, and community well-being, while also ensuring the organization's continued growth and success.

In summary, TRSAZ's hybrid business model combines for-profit elements with a commitment to providing affordable mental health services through fiscal sponsorship arrangements. This innovative approach allows TRSAZ to fulfill its mission of increasing access to therapy while maintaining financial sustainability and maximizing its impact within the Navajo Nation community.

TRSAZ's sustainability relies on a multifaceted approach that leverages fee-for-service revenue, collaborative partnerships with organizations like the Navajo Nation ICWA, and securing Federal grants. Here's how each component contributes to TRSAZ's sustainability:

1. Fee-for-Service Revenue: TRSAZ generates revenue through fee-for-service arrangements, where clients pay for therapy sessions either out-of-pocket or through their commercial insurance coverage. This revenue stream provides a reliable source of income that can sustain TRSAZ's day-to-day operations, cover overhead costs, and support ongoing service delivery. Our biggest source of revenue from commercial insurance is our contract with Blue Cross Blue Shield.

   - Sustainability Strategy: TRSAZ strategically sets its fee-for-service rates to balance affordability for clients while ensuring that the organization remains financially viable. By maintaining competitive rates and delivering high-quality, culturally sensitive therapy services, TRSAZ can attract clients and generate sustainable revenue over time.

2. Collaborative Supports with Navajo Nation ICWA: Collaborating with organizations like the Navajo Nation ICWA enhances TRSAZ's sustainability by expanding its reach, increasing its impact, and accessing additional resources and funding opportunities. Working with ICWA allows TRSAZ to provide specialized mental health services to Navajo children and families involved in the child welfare system, addressing critical needs within the community.

   - Sustainability Strategy: Through strategic partnerships with ICWA and other community organizations, TRSAZ can diversify its service offerings, tap into new client populations, and access funding streams that support its mission. By aligning its services with the priorities and goals of collaborative partners, TRSAZ strengthens its sustainability and relevance within the community.

3. Federal Grants: Securing Federal grants provides TRSAZ with additional funding to support its programs, initiatives, and expansion efforts. Federal grants, particularly those earmarked for mental health services, community development, or Indigenous health initiatives, can provide significant financial support to sustain and grow TRSAZ's operations over the long term.

   - Sustainability Strategy: TRSAZ actively seeks out Federal grant opportunities that align with its mission and strategic priorities. By developing competitive grant proposals, demonstrating its impact and effectiveness, and leveraging partnerships with collaborative supports like ICWA, TRSAZ enhances its chances of securing Federal funding to support its sustainability and growth objectives.

By strategically leveraging fee-for-service revenue, collaborating with organizations like the Navajo Nation ICWA, and securing Federal grants, TRSAZ establishes a sustainable business model that supports its mission of providing accessible, culturally sensitive mental health services to the Navajo Nation community. Through diversification of revenue streams and strategic partnerships, TRSAZ ensures its long-term viability and impact within the community.