As an Asian American, first-generation immigrant from Taiwan, and a licensed psychologist, like many people of color, we have had unique experiences from the witnessing or direct experiencing of social issues and inequities.

In my journey as a person of color I have often felt that while many therapeutic interventions are helpful, there are still nuances of mental health treatments taught in North America that do not quite speak to or resonate with clients of color or with myself. For example, why aren't we all taught how to directly talk about, conceptualize, process, and integrate important social issues such as racism?

Additionally, during graduate training or once I was licensed, looking for professional continuing education courses, diversity topics are often an "add-on" instead of the centerpiece of psychological practice, theory, and/or research.

I began asking myself more questions:

1. There are many people of color conducting amazing clinical and scholarly work, yet it takes so much effort to seek it out. How can we make their work more accessible?

2. How do we honor the rich experiences of people of color who are doing valuable work that is advancing culturally responsive mental health care and training?

3. How can we make learning about race, culture, and diversity an ongoing and central part of our professional journey?

4. Why aren't there more people of color teaching continuing education (CE) courses?

5. What would it be like to take CE courses where there are comprehensive topics on race, culture, and diversity as a natural part of professional development, rather than having a limited selection?

In my search for solutions to these questions, I created The Multicultural Counseling Institute in October 2022. I am excited to develop this collaborative network where training resources on race, culture, and diversity are comprehensive; where we can connect the rich stories and experiences of diverse people to the work that we are doing; and offer a valuable resource for mental health professionals of all backgrounds. My hope is that this is one step towards an ongoing journey in creating a more inclusive and equitable field in mental health.

My name is Anushka Parag, and I am a second-year student at Texas A&M University. I am working towards getting a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Business. I am an active member of Aggie Mental Health Ambassadors where I get to advocate for mental health all across my campus.

As a South Asian, I want to reframe therapy within the South Asian Indian community as a necessary and accessible way to treat mental health struggles. I have noticed through research and personal experience that the hesitancy to get help is especially prevalent amongst men, who struggle to find a space to address mental health issues without it being seen as a weakness. 

In my free time, I prioritize volunteering for organizations such as the Central Texas Food Bank and, most recently, Ronald McDonald House Charities. My hobbies include listening to music, spending time with friends and family, crocheting, and baking.