From Fear to Freedom: Liberating BIPOC Mental Health Therapists in a White-Dominated Field

Despite the fact that I yearned to attend a Historical Black College & University (HBCU) for my Masters in Social Work, I ended up attending a high-ranking university that was predominately White. The program was thorough and did successfully prepare me to engage in clinical social work practice that was effective and evidenced based. However, unfortunately my skills were only useful for one population of people. When I walked out of my graduation as an official social worker, I was all geared up and ready to change the lives of only the people whose identities fit inside of dominant social norms.

I was taught different methods of clinical social work practice that neither coincided with the expectations of our governing board’s code of ethics nor the idea of practice that I had in mind for working with people who looked like me. I learned to engage in practices that would do everything BUT bring healing, restoration, and elevation to communities of color. In the field, I found myself in what I called the "trenches," where BIPOC individuals relied on me for guidance, liberation, and healing, left to fend for myself.

I forced myself to utilize the skills I was taught out of a deeply entrenched fear of operating outside of the dominant norm of therapy practice. I did not want to be punished for deviating from it. However, there was a deep disconnect. I did not feel very effective and at some point, I had to make a difficult choice. Do I do things their way or do I do what I believe in my heart is the best style of practice for my clients? I made a decision that would change my style of practice forever. I chose me which led me to choose what was best for my clients.

Navigating the development of an authentic style of practice as a Black or Brown therapist presents unique challenges due to the pervasive influence of societal conditioning and indoctrination rooted in white supremacy and ethnocentric Western values. The pressure to conform to dominant norms of therapy practice can be particularly daunting for therapists of color, often leading to a struggle to reconcile their cultural identities with professional expectations.

Hinderances to Our Ability to Practice in Our True Authenticity

1. Societal Conditioning and Indoctrination: BIPOC therapists often encounter implicit and explicit messages that dictate how they should show up in the therapy room, which are heavily influenced by white supremacist and Eurocentric standards. These standards may prioritize detachment, clinical language, and a focus on individual pathology, making it challenging for BIPOC therapists to authentically express their cultural identities and relational styles.

2. Deeply Embedded Fear: BIPOC therapists may fear deviating from the dominant norms of therapy practice due to the risk of being perceived as incompetent or unprofessional. The fear of "getting in trouble" for not adhering to established protocols can create a sense of internal conflict and pressure to assimilate, stifling their ability to authentically engage with clients.

3. Ethnocentric Pedagogy: The disconnect between the cultural backgrounds of BIPOC therapists and the predominantly Western-centric theories and techniques taught in traditional mental health training programs can exacerbate feelings of alienation and imposter syndrome. This cultural mismatch may lead BIPOC therapists to question the validity of their own cultural practices and therapeutic approaches.

How to Develop Your Authentic Style of Practice

Despite these challenges, celebrating the diversity of clinicians and promoting authenticity in therapy is essential for creating inclusive and culturally responsive mental health care. Here are ways BIPOC therapists can develop their authentic style of practice and the importance of presenting as their true selves when working with clients:

1. Cultural Affirmation: Embracing and affirming their cultural heritage allows BIPOC therapists to draw upon their unique experiences, values, and relational styles in therapy. Integrating culturally relevant interventions and practices honors the diversity of clients and fosters a deeper sense of connection and understanding.

2. Community Support and Mentorship: Seeking support from peers and mentors who share similar cultural backgrounds provides validation and encouragement for BIPOC therapists to embrace their authenticity. Peer supervision groups and mentorship programs offer opportunities for collaboration, reflection, and skill development within a culturally affirming context.

3. Critical Consciousness: Developing a critical consciousness of the systemic barriers and power dynamics that perpetuate White supremacy within mental health care empowers BIPOC therapists to challenge dominant narratives and advocate for culturally competent practices. Engaging in critical dialogue and activism within professional organizations promotes equity and social justice in the field of mental health.

4. Self-Compassion and Self-Care: Practicing self-compassion and prioritizing self-care are essential for BIPOC therapists to navigate the inherent stressors and microaggressions they may encounter in their professional roles. Cultivating resilience and setting boundaries ensures that therapists can show up authentically for their clients while maintaining their own well-being.

5. Client-Centered Approach: Adopting a client-centered approach allows BIPOC therapists to honor the unique strengths, needs, and cultural identities of their clients. Centering the client's voice and agency in therapy empowers clients to drive the therapeutic process and fosters a sense of mutual trust and respect.

In summary, it is imperative for BIPOC therapists to embrace their authenticity and cultural identities in their practice to provide effective and culturally responsive mental health care. By challenging dominant norms and celebrating diversity within the field, BIPOC therapists contribute to the advancement of equitable and inclusive therapeutic practices that honor the lived experiences of all individuals.