ABOUT US
Painted Brain creates community-based solutions to mental health challenges through arts, advocacy, and enterprise.
Who We Are
Painted Brain began as a community-based arts group in 2006 and has evolved into a multi-faceted behavioral health provider in Los Angeles, CA.
We are a peer-run 501(c)(3) and a majority BIPOC women-led organization that creates lasting, community-based solutions to mental health challenges and the impact of social injustice through arts, advocacy, and enterprise. Since our inception, we have provided services to people impacted by behavioral health challenges, social injustice, poverty and incarcerate systems.
We have trained hundreds of peers as Certified Peer Support Specialists and provide recovery services for thousands through peer counseling, therapy, and resource referrals and linkages.
How We Redefine Mental Health
Painted Brain continues to have an unwavering commitment to supporting state-wide advocacy initiatives.
We advocated for the passing of SB 803 which has added over 8,000 individuals with disabilities into the behavioral health workforce, and legislation for including Psychiatric Advanced Directives (AB 2352 - Irwin) that would have provided treatment protections for individuals in a mental health crisis.
As a state behavioral health policy advocate, we uplift the voices of our local community members and organizations at the state level.
Our Peer-Led Model
Painted Brain is powered by peers—individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges, substance abuse and the justice system—who provide compassionate support and bridge the gap between clinical care and real-world recovery.
Through authentic connections, we foster a community of understanding, resilience, and empowerment, proving that recovery is possible while challenging stigma.
PAINTED BRAIN’S MISSION AND PURPOSE
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Peer-Led Mental Health Revolution:
Support an innovative approach that challenges stigma and empowers individuals with lived mental health experiences.
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Underserved Community Focus:
Enable critical services for populations often overlooked by traditional mental health systems and connecting them to vital resources.
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Community-Driven Approach:
Invest in programs designed and led by people with direct mental health experience. Safe and judgement free in our community center.
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Holistic Support Services:
Contribute to comprehensive support including clinical support, education, job training, creative expression, and community integration.
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Empowerment through Employment:
Fund trainings that provide professional development and pathways to employment as peer support specialists as well as other careers in mental health.
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Advocacy for Systemic Change:
Help advocate and transform mental health narratives from criminalization and marginalization to understanding, recovery, and opportunity.
Meet Our Leadership Team
Executive Director
Rayshell Chambers
Rayshell Chambers was born to serve! With a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and Master’s Degree in Public Administration, she has devoted her personal and professional life to acquiring knowledge and skills necessary to address the most complex public policy issues affecting the human condition.
Our Founders & Board
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Rayshell Chambers
Co-Founder,
Executive Director -
Dave Leon
Co-Founder,
Board Member -
David Israelian
Co-Founder
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Gary Shenk
Board President
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Nyla Christian
Board Member
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Elyn Saks
Board Treasurer
PRESS
See what others are saying about Painted Brain
Our Impact
“I’ve learned a lot, met new people and created art! There are art supplies and activities so have some fun. Find out how Painted Brain can help YOU with your creativity and mental health.”
— Community Member
"Thank you for making this transformative experience possible and believing in lived experience's power to create meaningful change."
— Peer Support Training Graduate
“Painted Brain is transforming lives and supporting our advocacy efforts ... protecting the agency of those living with mental health challenges to get the adequate care they need to establish recovery.”
— Christopher Schneider, Director Saks Institute
Careers
Join our diverse team and help transform mental health - where every voice matters.