February is Black History Month, a time for reflection of the trials and tribulations that follow an entire community spreading across the globe and generations.
From racism and stereotyping to stigma and cultural differences, Black communities face barriers that prevent individuals for receiving timely and appropriate care.
With barriers such as these, it may make it feel like mental health care is inaccessible, but MHAfred is here to remind you that it is. Black voices have been an integral part of mental health care developments. Their experiences, expertise, and determination to make a difference in their own communities have greatly influenced culturally informed care.
The following individuals have made crucial contributions to the world of psychology, specifically through the lens of the Black experience:
Bebe Moore Campbell
Most people understand that without a safe space to discuss mental health challenges, help is less sought after. American author, journalist and teacher Bebe Moore Campbell has advocated for a more transparent and accepting conversation surrounding Black mental health.
Campbell founded NAMI-Inglewood, now known as NAMI Urban Los Angeles, bringing a safe space to the heart of a predominately black area in California.
Her advocacy spreads across generations, with published titles such as “Sometimes My Mommy Gets Angry,” a children’s book that explains mental health challenges. Campbell was dedicated to making sure everyone, big and small, understood mental health is a serious matter, but not one that must be fought in silence.
Mamie Phipps Clark, Ph.D. and Kenneth Bancroft Clark, Ph.D.
According to the American Psychology Association, recent studies found that by 2023, 21.34% of psychologists represent racial and ethnic minorities. Of this amount, about 5.49% of Psychologists identify as Black, representing 3rd overall, behind White and Hispanic representation, respectively.
Though a seemingly small number, their presence in the field of Psychology applies a first-hand perspective to mental health challenges in marginalized communities. Dr. Mamie Phipps Clark and Dr. Kenneth Bancroft Clark are notable figures in the early inclusion of Black Psychologists.
Both were the first African Americans to receive their doctorates in psychology. They each made personal accomplishments in their professional life, with Mamie opening her own practice to serve poor minority families and Kenneth becoming the first African American to serve as president of the American Psychological Association, among other notable accomplishments.
The Clarks are more famously known for their “Doll Test,” an experiment that explored racial perceptions. The test involved giving children four dolls that were all similar, except for skin color, and observing their behavior towards the dolls. Their findings exposed demoralizing and dehumanizing views towards darker skin that manifested as early as childhood and would have a great impact on the children’s psyche and self-worth.
Their work was pivotal to developing a deeper understanding of mental health in black communities and made lasting impacts on the Civil Rights movement, transcending the field of psychology.
Beverly Greene, PhD
Challenges faced by minority groups are almost never discussed without mentioning intersectionality. Dr. Beverly Greene, a professor and psychological “pioneer,” highlighted the crossroads of one’s personal identity and how it impacts care.
Among her numerous studies, “When the Therapist is White and the Patient is Black: Considerations for Psychotherapy in the Feminist Heterosexual and Lesbian Communities” is considered a staple of her work and a “landmark” in the field of psychotherapy.
Dr. Greene’s work is more than just studies; it’s advocacy on paper. Understanding and knowledge proves a powerful tool, and her findings have influenced the world of psychology, especially under the lens of being Black.
Celebrating History
These are a few individuals that have made great progress in the field of mental health as it pertains to black communities. Their contributions were catalysts of advocation for better community resources, education, and prevention.
With social tension, both lingering from the past and modern concerns, it’s important to keep in mind that the work has been done and it shows us more can be accomplished.
As we reflect on this Black History month, take a moment to learn about the significant moments in history that have changed the way we view mental health. You may come across some more unsung heroes of the past that inspire you to follow suit.
The MHAfred HELPLINE Directory can help you find a mental health provider that is culturally informed. When searching for a provider in the directory, simply click “Additional Filters” and browse through the selection of filters under “Client Focus.” There, you’d select the focus that best aligns with your identity (i.e. “African American Culture,” “Racially/Ethically Diverse,” etc.). After filling out all necessary filters, click “search,” which will gather a list of providers in our directory that meet your needs as closely as possible.
If you need assistance in your search for providers, call our office at (540)- 371-2704, or email us at mhafred@mhafred.org. Remember, help is available.
Written by Viviana Smith/Program Coordinator
Resources
Black Pioneers in Mental Health | Mental Health America
African mental health: Quick facts | Mental Health America
African mental health: Historical context and cultural beliefs | Mental Health America