Growing up, I quickly realized that being Black wasn’t just about the color of my skin. It was a fundamental part of my identity that shaped how I saw the world and how the world saw me. Unfortunately, the world wasn’t kind when delivering that realization. On top of that, when the world threw depression and anxiety into the mix,...[ read more ]
In the United States and various parts of the world, race-related bullying has been an enduring and distressing issue. Black teenagers often find themselves confronted with the harsh realities of discrimination, prejudice, and systemic inequalities, which significantly impact their mental health and overall well-being. The persistent exposure to racial bias and hostility can lead to profound psychological and emotional distress,...[ read more ]
In the interwoven web of diverse human identities, the experiences of Black LGBT+ teens and young adults stand at a unique intersection of race, sexuality, and gender identity/presentation. This intersectionality shapes their journey in profound and often challenging ways, molding identities in the face of societal norms, cultural expectations, and personal growth. For Black LGBTQ+ folks, the experience of being...[ read more ]
I became a social worker for lots of reasons. Specifically, I wanted to be able to provide therapy for Black teens. Why? Because when I was a teen, Black figures I weren't related to meant a lot! They gave me guidance, support, hope, and a vision for the kind of successful, happy, healthy, and whole Black person -- Black woman...[ read more ]