Promoting Black Women's Mental Health

Promoting Black Women's Mental Health celebrates the strengths and complexities of Black women in American life. Many misunderstand and mis-characterize Black women and underappreciate their important contributions to families, communities, and the nation. In this book, a team of Black women mental health practitioners and scholars discuss a range of conditions that impact Black women's self-concepts and mental health. Drawing on a study of Black women across the United States, authors explore the social determinants of Black women's mental health and wellness and Black women's girlhood experiences. The book also explores Black women's stereotypes, their traumas, how they shift in relationships, and images that affect their racial and gender identity development. The book draws on scholarly and popular sources to present Black women's strength and challenges. Authors include commentary, case examples, reflection questions, and resources to improve practitioners' capacities to help Black women clients to recover, heal, and thrive.

'Promoting Black Women's Mental Health: What Practitioners Should and Shouldn't Do is an important resource that is practical, informative, and inspiring. This book provides thoughtful insights on integrating therapy, physical health, spirituality, and relationships for Black women. Most importantly, it encourages practitioners to look beyond survival mode and to focus on Black women's strengths and thriving.' Thema Bryant, author of Homecoming: Overcome Fear and Trauma to Reclaim your Whole, Authentic Self, 'Promoting Black Women's Mental Health should be required reading for health professionals and training programs. Black women deserve to be better understood and this powerful book continues that dialogue.' Gail E. Wyatt, UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, USA

Donna Baptiste, EdD, LCP, LCPC, LMFT, is Chair and Clinical Professor of the graduate program in Counseling at The Family Institute at Northwestern University, USA. Dr. Baptiste maintains a clinical practice with people of all backgrounds, including Black women and couples. She also has background in research, studying, writing, and conducting trainings on cultural-informed practices related to various aspects of Black family life. Adia Gooden, PhD, received her BA in psychology from Stanford University, USA, and her PhD in clinical psychology from DePaul University, USA. She is now a licensed clinical psychologist whose work focuses on Black women and self-worth. She has provided therapy to many Black female clients and conducted continuing education trainings on cultural competence and working with Black women in therapy.