Black, Indigenous, and People of Color: What to Expect in BIPOC-Centered Therapy.

Identity is a complex and dynamic concept, influenced by many factors. One major factor associated with identity is racial, ethnic, and cultural background. This piece of our identity is foundational to how we relate to and interact within our communities and relationships.

 

While mental health and interpersonal struggles occur for a wide range of people, black, indigenous, and people of color have significantly different and disproportionately negative experiences than caucasians, and are marginalized within society. Therefore, if you are a BIPOC individual, it is essential to feel comfortable and affirmed throughout your therapeutic experience.

If you are seeking BIPOC-specific or affirming services, it is important that your therapist understands how the following challenges may impact your mental health and general well-being:

  • Discrimination (in work, school, social settings, businesses,
    relationships, or society at large)
  • Racism
  • Internalized racism
  • Trauma
  • Community trauma
  • Intergenerational trauma
  • Familial and intimate relationships
  • Spirituality

It is important to keep in mind that symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health-related challenges often present and are viewed differently between ethnic groups and cultures. At New Leaf, your therapist will also consider and be curious about the following factors when meeting with you in order to provide competent and holistic services:

  • Your family’s unique culture
  • How you identify with your own background
  • Your individual experiences and beliefs
  • How the demographics and philosophies of the community you live in impact you
  • How you relate to others, or not, within your immediate area
  • Additional services and resources you may benefit from

Finding the right therapist can be difficult. If you identify as black, indigenous, or a person of color, it is especially important to find a therapist who is culturally humble and informed. At New Leaf, we prioritize your feelings of safety and want you to feel seen and heard. Please reach out to us to learn more about our therapists and their approaches to treating BIPOC individuals.

We are here to help. If you live in the greater Ventura or Los Angeles County areas,
please reach out and connect with a therapist today.

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or call: 805-774-1506

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