Persad Center

Care That Sees You. Supports You. Stands With You.

A pioneer in care for the LGBTQ+ and HIV/AIDS communities, Persad has been providing affirming care since 1972.

As the nation’s second-oldest LGBTQ+ specialized behavioral health organization, we’re still here because this community deserves care that doesn’t require explanation. Now we’re expanding our care with new Primary Care services; helping you access more of the care you need, all in one safe and compassionate place.

Year Of Experience

Active Clients

Year Of Experience

1,367

Active Patients

7,061

Therapy Sessions

11,235

Lives Impacted

Testimonials

We need more caring hands like this for our people in need. Mental health has never gone away and I'm so happy that it’s becoming more accepted so we can focus on making it better by adding more resources to our community. This is exactly was Persad aims to do!

I've been a tg client of PERSAD for almost a year. I would say I'm old school, but I'm just old. I've always felt hated for what I've felt in my heart, but in the past year, yeah, there are those who will always hate me and that's their problem. The staff makes me feel welcome and they're helpfull. For the first time in my life, I don't hate myself.

I had used Persad for years in the past, the environment was always welcoming, comforting and helpful. The staff is very friendly and kind. Their new facility is very nice and comfortable.

Kathy and Dr.Reis are the best. Kathy does EMDR . She brought things out that no one in 40 years of therapy could

This place is absolutely amazing and definitely helps those who need it. i’m so grateful to be able to stop in and get the essentials i need

More Than a Clinic. A Community Built Over 50 Years.

In the early 1970s, the Pittsburgh LGBTQ+ community had nowhere to turn for safe and compassionate behavioral health care. Their identities were often viewed as problems to be corrected- not seen and supported. Two activists decided to build a different kind of care.

More than 50 years later, this commitment continues to shape Persad. Today, we’re expanding beyond behavioral health to offer Primary Care—creating more opportunities for LGBTQ+ people and people living with HIV to receive affirming, comprehensive care in one place.

Today, we serve more than 1,300 people with behavioral health, psychiatric care, primary care, HIV/STI testing, pharmacy services, substance use disorder treatment, older adult programs, fitness, and a community food pantry.

In-person behavioral health services are available in Pittsburgh and Washington, PA, with primary care and HIV/STI testing available in Pittsburgh. Behavioral health telehealth services are available statewide. We accept Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans.

What hasn’t changed is why we do this. Everyone deserves access to affirming care without having to fight for it, explain who they are, or educate their provider. That belief has guided Persad since day one—and it continues to guide us today.

What affirming care Looks Like At Persad.

At Persad, you don’t have to explain who you are before you can begin healing. Our team offers compassionate and safe behavioral and physical health care, as well as STI/HIV testing and pharmacy services for the LGBTQ+ community and all who seek affirming care. With both in-person and telehealth appointments available, we’re here and ready to care for the whole you.

Therapy

Individual, couples, and family therapy with clinicians who understand LGBTQ+ life from the inside. No explaining required. In person and via telehealth.

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Primary Care

Compassionate, coordinated medical services designed to work alongside your behavioral health care, ensuring no part of your health is treated in isolation.

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Psychiatric Care

Compassionate, inclusive psychiatric care that supports your identity, builds trust, and creates a safe space for healing.

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Substance Use Disorder Treatment

Substance use treatment in a stigma-free, affirming environment. Licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Telehealth available.

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STI Testing

Confidential, judgment-free STI and HIV testing in a welcoming, affirming environment. Whether you’re getting tested routinely or have concerns about a recent exposure, we’re here to provide information, support, and care.

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HIV/AIDS Support

Mental health care, peer case management, and prevention resources for people living with HIV/AIDS. Ryan White Part B Provider. Persad has been doing this work since 1982.

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Pharmacy

Prescription care under the same roof as your behavioral and primary care health teams

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Transgender & Gender Diverse Support

Mental health support, gender identity care, medical navigation, letters of support, and peer programs for transgender and nonbinary people and their families.

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Older Adults

The OWLS program provides community connection, support groups, individual therapy, and telehealth for LGBTQ+ seniors 50 and older.

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Training and Education

LGBTQ+ affirming care training for healthcare providers, schools, organizations, and community services across western Pennsylvania.

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Battering Intervention Program

A structured, LGBTQ+-affirming program focused on accountability, self-awareness, and building healthier relationship behaviors.

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You can make A Difference.

Persad has been sustained by community support for over 50 years. Financial contributions, in-kind donations, and volunteer time all make a direct difference in the care and services we can provide.

Donate

Your gift funds therapy for patients who can't afford it, keeps our food pantry stocked, supports Phoenix Fitness, and helps Persad continue responding when the community needs us.

Current Needs

In-kind donations of food, hygiene products, fitness equipment, and supplies make a real difference. Our current needs list is updated regularly.

Volunteer

Volunteers support events, outreach, the food pantry, administrative work, and more. If you want to put your time toward something that matters, Persad has a place for you.

Insurance Plans

Your Insurance May Cover the Cost of Treatment.

Reach out today for more information.