What is Insula Collective?
“This is for the ones that will see through
No one ever told you, but I promise that we need you”
- Kahlil Blu on “Melwood”
Welcome to Insula Collective, a sanctuary born from the inspiration drawn from Moses Sumney's album 'Grae,' where the profound concept of "insula" comes to life. In Latin, insula means island—a metaphor for the isolation many of us face in our lives. Personal experiences have illuminated the profound impact of isolation on mental well-being, contributing to heightened dissociation, loneliness, shame, and depression. We understand the intricate dance between self and others in the face of isolation, and we believe in the transformative power of community.
Our journey began with the recognition of the need for supportive spaces within communities of color focused on mental health. Drawing strength from my own experiences, I witnessed the immense value of these spaces, where individuals found acceptance, understanding, and a shared journey toward wellness. Insula Collective is committed to expanding these spaces, fostering a sense of community and vulnerability, as we firmly believe these are potent tools for holistic well-being.
Life's challenges can be daunting, but at Insula Collective, we stand as a beacon of support. Our commitment to accessibility is reflected in our donation-based support groups, embracing a pay-what-you-can model. Our services are dedicated to the BIPOC community, and we proudly stand as allies to the queer community. Come back together at Insula Collective, where acceptance knows no bounds.
Meet the Team
Briana Boyd
Founder and Certified Peer Support Specialist
With over 13 years in the music industry, I experienced the profound effects of burnout, which led me to focus on my other passion: mental health. My lifelong journey managing severe treatment-resistant depression and various mental health diagnoses has been shaped by the crucial resources and unwavering support from my mother. The loss of family members to suicide, particularly my father, made me acutely aware of the challenging emotions we often face and the stark disparities in the mental health care system, especially for the Black community. These experiences ignited my commitment to fostering greater wellness and building a supportive mental health community for those often underserved.
In 2022, my first group therapy experience was transformative, highlighting the profound impact of mental health support groups, particularly for people of color. Recognizing the need for more accessible and inclusive safe spaces, I became a certified peer support specialist in California. This certification empowers me to bridge gaps in care, offering support and understanding to those who may have felt overlooked or neglected.
My mission is to break down barriers hindering mental health care within the BIPOC community, advocating for greater accessibility and inclusivity. By sharing my journey and leveraging my certification, I aim to create spaces where individuals can find solace, share experiences, and embark on a collective journey toward holistic well-being. Join me in cultivating a supportive environment that encourages growth, healing, and empowerment.
CERTIFICATIONS & TRAINING
Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist - Issued 3/5/2024
Integrative Wellness Pop-Up Barber Shop Led By Brandon Bond - The Copeland Center - Issued 7/30/2024
QPR Gatekeeper Certificate - TWLOHA via QPR Institute (Question, Persuade, Refer - Suicide Prevention Training) - Issued 10/14/2024
