In many African countries, mental health care remains severely under-resourced and stigmatized, leaving millions without access to evidence-based support. The SEEK-GSP (Social, Emotional, and Economic empowerment through Knowledge – Group Support Psychotherapy) Mental Health Program was developed in response to this gap, offering a culturally grounded, scalable solution that empowers lay community members to deliver group-based mental health care.

This presentation traces the evolution of SEEKGSP from its research-based origins to its current role as a continent-wide movement for mental health transformation. It highlights how Group Support Psychotherapy (GSP), rooted in local realities and led by trained non-specialists, has been successfully integrated into HIV care, refugee response, and youth empowerment initiatives across multiple African countries.

Drawing on over a decade of implementation science, clinical research, and policy engagement, the presentation will showcase evidence of SEEKGSP’s impact on reducing depression, improving social functioning, enhancing livelihoods, and restoring dignity to marginalized populations. It will also discuss strategies for scaling mental health programs in low-resource settings, including partnerships, digital innovation, and systems integration.

Ultimately, this talk aims to inspire a reimagining of what is possible for mental health care delivery in Africa and beyond.