Representation Matters

Finding yourself in environments where there is no one around who resembles you can be intimidating. This remains a reality for many black, brown, and Indigenous communities in America because people of color are frequently outnumbered by considerable margins in many spaces. This often leads to “code-switching” or putting on a façade to fit or blend in - taking a toll on members of underrepresented communities. 

Individuals of color also face the challenge of locating a mental health professional with similar racial or ethnic identities. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), approximately 80.85% of the psychology workforce in the U.S. comprises White professionals. Black and African American professionals accounted for 5.08% of the psychology workforce in 2021. When we consider these numbers, it’s not surprising that individuals of color trying to find a psychiatrist, therapist, or other mental health providers, encounter difficulties identifying someone who can share their unique cultural or racial experience. 

Despite the prevalence of many Black individuals being more likely to struggle with chronic and persistent, rather than episodic, mental health conditions, approximately 25% of African Americans reportedly seek care when they are experiencing mental health challenges. For many people, seeking mental health services can be an intimidating and vulnerable process. Those who may have faced previous systematic barriers or stigmatization may choose not to seek help for their mental health issues at all. When people aren’t able to see themselves reflected back to them, it can further push the narrative that mental health isn’t for them. 

On the other hand, when people can see themselves reflected in helping professions, they are more likely to connect on mutual cultural background and lived experiences without the fear of being judged or misunderstood. These shared experiences can provide culturally sensitive care and assist with navigating the unique issues that marginalized communities frequently face with greater empathy and nuance. The therapy space can become where safety and trust are fostered - a space people need the most.  

I want to make myself visible to those who need someone like me to support them and create pathways for those aspiring to be in this field. When people see more diversity, they feel inspired, and hopeful, and have a sense of belonging. As a budding professional in the mental health field, I strive to offer inclusive and unbiased care.

Mikah Jones, Clinical Intern

Inner Coach Counseling, LLC

References: 

Data tool: demographics of the U.S. psychology workforce. American Psychological Association. 2022. Accessed October 26, 2023. https://www.apa.org/workforce/data-tools/demographics

Black mental health: what you need to know. Mass General Brigham McLean. January 30, 2023. Accessed October 26, 2023. https://www.mcleanhospital.org/essential/black-mental-health

Peters Z, Santo L, Davis D, Defrances C. Emergency department visits related to mental health disorders among adults, by race and hispanic ethnicity: United States, 2018–2020. Natl Health Stat Report. 2023;(181):1-9.

Black and African American communities and mental health. Mental Health America. 2020. Accessed October 26, 2023. https://www.mhanational.org/issues/black-and-african-american-communities-and-mental-health