Black History and Mental health

It is that time of the year, so let’s chat!

Did you know that Black (AA) therapist only make up 5.3% of mental health therapist? That is freaking low…however, we are proud to be here to serve and be front and center for individuals, couple and families that have been looking for someone to look like them.

From listening to other individuals, the struggle has been seeking someone that 1. Understands their experience 2. Willing to learn them fully, and their experience as a POC (person of color) to be able to offer them quality care.

No therapist I went to, asked me about my experience, family history (outside of an assessment) or even how they can understand me more.

The first therapist I went to, told me to get a divorce. Instead of understanding what marriage looks like to me and how my culture views marriage, her first solution was divorce-I never went back.

There are amazing non black therapist so that is not my point. My second therapist was a white therapist and yoga instructor who taught me about the power of meditation and relaxation.

My 3rd therapist was black and let me be me and helped me through grief, anxiety and family issues because she understood.

That is all POC want from their therapist- to be understood, helped, and not have to code switch due to fear of being judged.

~16% of the black population, roughly 7 million people, reported having a mental health issue in the past year (mhanational.org).

We are often looked over because “we should be strong.” Our cry for help is seen as “being angry” instead of “stressed.”

Don’t go unhealed, seek up. There are therapist here to help. Also, click here for more resources, tools, tips and stats to help.

Happy Black History Month!

Kasey