The organization was founded by Dr. Nicholas and Dorothy Cummings, as the Foundation for Behavioral Health. In 2003, the organization was reorganized as the Cummings Foundation for Behavioral Health (also known as CFBH), an independent 501(c)(3) private operating foundation.
Today, we are generously funded by The Nicholas & Dorothy Cummings Foundation and other supporters.
The Cummings Foundation for Behavioral Health is a nonprofit that pursues innovative opportunities to advance professional psychology and behavioral healthcare in ways that positively impact society.
Our work honors the pioneering legacy of our founder, Dr. Nicholas Cummings.
All people deserve a chance to lead a life of dignity and purpose. We envision a world in which everyone has access to proven and effective behavioral healthcare so they can cope with challenges, have healthy relationships, manage stress and make better decisions. To accomplish this, we must evolve the profession of psychology and transform the very systems that hinder progress and change.
A Focus on Research
We embark on groundbreaking efforts in the areas of empirical research, professional training and practice, and public advocacy and awareness. We collaborate with researchers, academics, organizations, and other stakeholders to design and implement projects that can accelerate advancements in professional psychology.Research
Develop projects that use evidence, observation and experimentation to determine best practices in mental health.
Education
Provide opportunities for high-quality professional training and practice, in both university settings and as continuing education.
Service
Give back by contributing scientific psychological knowledge, which can be used to advance behavioral healthcare for all.
our research areas
LAW ENFORCEMENT WELLNESS
Law enforcement plays a critical role in community safety; yet officers operate within high-stress environments that can significantly impact decision-making, wellness, and public interactions. The Foundation supports work that promotes evidence-based training, wellness interventions, and systemic reforms that improve safety outcomes for both officers and the communities they serve.
GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION
Gun violence is a leading public health concern with profound psychological, community, and economic consequences. The Foundation supports work that advances trauma-informed approaches, risk-reduction models, and community-centered interventions, promoting safety, resilience, and equitable access to prevention resources.
SOCIAL MEDIA IMPACT
Social media has rapidly reshaped communication, identity development, and access to information. While it can foster connection, it also presents risks related to mental health, misinformation, cyberbullying, and exposure to harmful content. CFBH invests in studies that clarify risk pathways, promote digital resilience, and inform policy and education efforts that support healthy and responsible social technology use.
INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE
Intimate partner violence (IPV) impacts individuals across the lifespan and is associated with significant mental health effects, including trauma responses, depression, and disrupted relational functioning. CFBH prioritizes studies that enhance culturally responsive care, improve screening and prevention practices, and address systemic barriers to safety and healing.
Our Vision
To lead the advancement of behavioral healthcare through research, education, and service.Our Vision
To lead the advancement of behavioral healthcare through research, education, and community service.Leadership
Learn more about our board of directors, a team of passionate, dedicated professionals committed to advancing psychology for the greatest good.Leadership
Learn more about our board of directors, a team of passionate, dedicated professionals committed to advancing psychology for the greatest good.A system of constant research, innovation, and program evaluation is critical to meeting the health and mental health needs of all Americans.
EMAIL SUBSCRIBE
Sign up with your email address to receive news and updates.