As we near the end of Black History Month, we thought it befitting to speak about the role of counseling in the African American community. Here at Spilove we understand that there are barriers that People of Color (POC) face in seeking counseling; we wanted to share about some of the ways we are mindful of these barriers and how we are proactive in gaining more understanding and are contributing to the efforts to break those barriers and increase healing opportunities for People of Color.
It is our intention to maintain a culture of inclusivity, sensitivity, and anti-racism. Below are some of the ways we maintain this culture for all clients but specifically for our clients of color:
· We realize that POC experience certain vulnerabilities in America that non-POC’s do not due to things like systemic oppression and white supremacy. As a team, we’re sensitive to and are committed to growing in knowledge of these vulnerabilities; we also are intentional to ensure all of our clients feel safe and respected
· We are committed to Cultural Competency and uphold this by engaging in continuing education, consuming literature, and gaining insight from POC about racial and social awareness and justice
· We understand that a person’s experience of oppression influences how they process: interactions, relationships, thoughts, and feelings – and we are mindful to not engage in generalized thinking or stereotyping. Instead we ensure that treatment is catered to that individual and their specific cultural uniqueness
· We are mindful not to operate from a “color blind” mindset (which is a perspective of privilege) instead we understand the importance of seeing, acknowledging, and valuing our clients who are POC — their history, their world view, their experience — opposed to assuming that their experience in this nation has been the same as the majority culture
· We are committed to being anti-racist; we understand that just because something isn’t exclusive does not mean it’s automatically inclusive. So, we assert our inclusivity of POC. Quite frankly, in today’s society there is no room for ignorance, oblivion, or blind neutrality
These are just a few ways that we seek to affirm People of Color and we are open to exploring and discovering additional ways to make our healing space safe and inviting for all individuals. As humans, the reality is that we won’t always get it right. But as a team we can vow to be proactive with staying informed, aware, and competent.
Happy Black History Month.
Edie King, MA, LPC, NCC
Clinical Specialist
Edie King is a Licensed Professional Counselor who prides herself on building genuine relationships with her clients to assist them in their journey towards healing. Edie graduated from Eastern University with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Counseling. She specializes in working with people who have experienced relational and emotional trauma, dysfunctional upbringings, addiction, life transitions, relationship transitions/abuse, and challenges with spirituality and identity. Edie uses a client centered approach to help clients gain awareness of their strengths, blind-spots, and ways to have a healthier future. Edie uses CBT, DBT, EMDR, Narrative therapy, and other integrative approaches to help you become the best version of yourself.
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