Podcast

People of Color in Psychology

We are a show devoted to People of Color in Psychology. People of Color in Psychology is the podcast where mental health professionals gain insight to culturally relevant psychological practice and research. You’ll learn from mental health experts to help advance your personal and professional development. Here, we will have conversations with mental health experts from diverse backgrounds who will be sharing their personal journey and culturally relevant psychological practice and research.

Produced by The Multicultural Counseling Institute and your host, Dr. Jack Tsan, our goal is to promote pathways for mental health providers who are people of color to lead the national conversation in culturally-responsive care and training. My hope is that together we will be able to learn from each other and appreciate the importance of advancing the contributions of people of color in psychology.

Ep34 - Christine Leyva, PhD

September 22, 2023

Self-verification theory is a theory in social psychology that proposes that people have a need to have their self-concepts (or beliefs about themselves) confirmed. This need is so strong that people will often go to great lengths to ensure that their self-concepts are verified. Self-verification theory has been used to explain a wide range of human behaviors, including why people choose certain friends and jobs, why they react to feedback in certain ways, and why they make the decisions they do.

In this podcast episode, we speak with Dr. Christine Leyva, who will be talking about self-verification theory and how it relates to women's self-esteem. We will explore why it is important for women to have their self-concepts verified, and how they can go about a process of empowering themselves in a healthy and positive way.

Dr. Leyva’s Contact:

⁠https://www.anxietyaustin.com/about-us/dr-leyva/⁠

Research:

Swann, W. B., Chang-Schneider, C., & Angulo, S. (2008). ⁠Self-verification in relationships as an adaptive process⁠. In J. V. Wood, A. Tesser, & J. G. Holmes (Eds.), The self and social relationships (pp. 49–72). Psychology Press. ⁠https://doi.org/10.4324/9780203783061⁠

⁠Perceived acceptability of abusive behavior in the maintenance of psychologically abusive relationships⁠. Dissertation by Dr. Christine Chang (Leyva).

Music Samples:

Intro by ⁠Alex_MakeMusic⁠ - ⁠A source of hope⁠

Outro by⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Alex⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠-⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Inspirational Cinematic Adventure

September 15, 2023

Psychodynamic therapies are evidence-based treatments, yet studies on these treatments when working with people of color are rare. As the field of psychodynamic therapy has evolved, there are more efforts to incorporate multicultural competencies into the theory. In fact, emphasis is placed on the relationship between therapist and client, recognizing forces unseen by the client can influence the interaction, understanding how history shapes current functioning, and so in the case of clients of color, imagine the profound implications when both therapist and client can name and discuss openly unconscious, internalized racist beliefs, and the oppressive systems which reinforce it.

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Geneva Reynaga Abiko, who is the owner of Borderlands Therapy Collaborative, and draws from a psychodynamic, intersectional, mujerista perspective in working with people of color.

Dr. Geneva's Contact:

Borderlands Therapy Collaborative - ⁠http://borderlandstherapy.com/⁠

Resources:

APA Policy Statement on Evidence-Based Practice in Psychology

⁠https://www.apa.org/practice/guidelines/evidence-based-statement⁠

Evidence Based Practice in Psychology - ⁠https://www.apa.org/practice/resources/evidence⁠

Book: ⁠Psychoanalytic Theory and Cultural Competence in Psychotherapy⁠

Levendosky, A., Turchan, J., Luo, X., & Good, E. (2023). A re-introduction of the psychodynamic approach to the standard clinical psychology curriculum. Journal of clinical psychology, 13. ⁠https://doi.org/10.1002/jclp.23551⁠

Shedler, J. (2010). The efficacy of psychodynamic psychotherapy. American Psychologist, 65(2), 98–109. ⁠https://doi.org/10.1037/a0018378⁠

Watkins, C. E. (2012). Race/ethnicity in short-term and long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy treatment research: How “White” are the data? Psychoanalytic Psychology, 29(3), 292–307. ⁠https://doi.org/10.1037/a0027449⁠

Music Samples:

Intro by ⁠Lexin_Music⁠ - ⁠Desire for Freedom⁠

Outro by⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Alex⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠-⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Inspirational Cinematic Adventure

September 8, 2023

Cultural adaptation is the process of modifying evidence-based psychotherapies to make them more relevant and acceptable to a particular cultural group. This can involve a variety of changes, such as adapting the language, concepts, and metaphors used in therapy; the way that therapy is delivered; and the goals and expectations of therapy. To engage in the adaptation requires cultural humility, the willingness to learn about the cultures of others. It is important for therapists who work with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds to be culturally humble. This means being aware of one's own biases and limitations, and being willing to listen to and learn from clients about their experiences.

In this episode, we talk to Dr. Chanderbhan, who has worked with communities consisting of a variety of ethnic identities. Dr. Chanderbhan will discuss how she has used cultural humility to learn about and adapt evidence-based treatments in a culturally responsive way.

Dr. Chanderbhan's Contact:

Website - ⁠https://www.chandpsych.com/⁠

Music Samples:

Intro by ⁠PaulYudin⁠ - ⁠Adventure Epic⁠

Outro by⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Alex⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠-⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Inspirational Cinematic Adventure

September 1, 2023

Providing culturally affirming care for Black women must take place at both the system and individual level. To genuinely provide culturally responsive care, we must be congruent in and outside of the therapy environment. In this episode, we have a conversation with Dr. Kimber Shelton about her book, A Handbook on Counseling African American Women. We’ll talk about some of the ideas covered in the book as well practical things to explore for our own internal work.

Dr. Shelton's Contact:

Website - ⁠https://www.kls-counseling.com/

Book:

⁠A Handbook on Counseling African American Women: Psychological Symptoms, Treatments, and Case Studies⁠

Conference: Freedom Movement - Liberating Black Women’s Mental Wellness Conference. Atlanta, GA. October 13th, 2023

⁠https://www.counselingblackwomen.com/conference⁠

Sponsor a student to attend this conference ⁠https://pages.donately.com/counselingblackwomen/⁠

Music Samples:

Intro by ⁠Alex_MakeMusic⁠ - ⁠Soft ambient⁠⁠ 

Outro by⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Alex⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠-⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Inspirational Cinematic Adventure

August 25, 2023

Microaggressions are brief, everyday exchanges that communicate negative, often subtle, messages of inferiority to a person based on their marginalized group membership. Microaggressions can have a significant impact on the mental and emotional health of people of color. In this episode, we'll discuss with Dr. Somjee steps to help our clients explore these issues about the impact of microaggressions so that we can create a space for healing. We'll also talk about the internal and external cultural work that mental health professionals need to do in order to be most effective in helping their clients.

Dr. Somjee's Contact:

Website - ⁠http://www.lubnasomjee-phd.com/⁠

LinkedIn - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/lubnasomjeephd/⁠

Music Sample:

Intro by ⁠⁠Alex_MakeMusic⁠⁠ - ⁠Legendary Treks⁠

Outro by⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Alex⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠-⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Inspirational Cinematic Adventure

August 16, 2023

One of the biggest stressors in life is finances and economic stability. Financial stressors amongst immigrant families is often overlooked in a therapy context. For example, what is it like for clients in mixed status families to be constantly in flux with their financial security and consequently the impact it has on their day-to-day decisions? Imagine the pressures, emotions, and dynamics in a mixed status family amongst clients who are confronted by the push and pull between two worlds of immigration status and the access to financial opportunities.

Listen to my conversation with Dr. Ana Romero as she shares her discovery and ongoing journey about the psychology of finances in a way to help elevate her clients. 

Dr. Ana's Contact:

Brewing Dinero - ⁠https://brewingdinero.com/⁠

Instagram - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/brewingdinero⁠

Music Sample:

Intro by ⁠24414830⁠ - ⁠Inspiring Epic Motivation Cinematic Trailer⁠

Outro by⁠ ⁠⁠Alex⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠-⁠ ⁠⁠Inspirational Cinematic Adventure

Ep27 - Michelle Madore, PhD

August 9, 2023

Getting into and navigating the psychology pipeline goes beyond just skill development especially as people of color face issues such as microaggressions and are more likely to lack mentorship support compared to their counterparts. What are the unspoken activities and ways to navigate the system? Likewise, the importance of seeking support as well as multiple mentors need to be considered.

Listen to my conversation with Dr. Michelle Madore as she shares her path in navigating the psychology pipeline based on her lessons learned.

Dr. Madore's Contact:

Website - ⁠https://www.madoreneatlab.com/⁠

Research - ⁠https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Michelle-Madore-2/research⁠

Madore, M. R., Kaseda, E., Chin, L., Tan, A., Wong, C. W., Lee, J., Thaler, N. S., Gee, S., Al-Dasouqi, H., & Irani, F. (2023). Future directions in neuropsychology: training, education, clinical practice, and advocacy for Asians and Asian Americans. Clinical Neuropsychologist, 37(5), 1097–1113. ⁠https://doi.org/10.1080/13854046.2023.2192416⁠

Music Sample:

Intro by ⁠Paul Yudin⁠ - ⁠Inspiring Emotional Piano⁠

Outro by ⁠⁠Alex Kizenkov⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠-⁠ ⁠Inspirational Cinematic Adventure⁠

August 2, 2023

Mental health research and scholarly work benefits from diversity in editing, writing, and participation. Due to systemic inequities, the lack of representation in editors, peer reviewers, and faculty members to support emerging African American and Black scholars in mental health is a major challenge. However, one journal, founded by Dr. Wadley is changing the status quo by lifting up the community of clinicians and scholars in the field of sexuality and relationships.

Listen to my conversation with Dr. Wadley along with co-host, Dr. Moore, as we converse with Dr. Wadley about his journey as the founding editor of the Journal of Black Sexuality and Relationships.

Dr. Wadley's Contact:

Email - ⁠phdjamesw@yahoo.com

Website - ⁠http://www.drjameswadley.com/⁠

Journal of Black Sexuality and Relationships:

⁠https://nebraskapressjournals.unl.edu/journal/journal-of-black-sexuality-and-relationships/⁠

⁠https://www.routledge.com/Leading-Conversations-on-Black-Sexualities-and-Identities/book-series/BSI#⁠

The Association of Black Sexologists and Clinicians:

⁠http://www.theabsc.com/events/⁠

Music Samples:

Intro by ⁠Enhee⁠ - ⁠Hip Hop Beat⁠

Outro by ⁠⁠Alex⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠- ⁠⁠Inspirational Cinematic Adventure

July 26, 2023

Multiracial clients tend to experience more mental health challenges compared to monoracial clients. There are unique challenges we must attend to and be aware of as the population of multiracial people, at about 33.8 million people in the year 2020 according to the US Census, will likely be increasing. Multiracial clients may struggle with incongruent discrimination, racial identity, and experience microaggressions specific to being multiracial. Listen to my conversation with Dr. Miranda Nadeau as she provides insights about her experiences and in working with multiracial clients.

Dr. Nadeau's Contact:

Website - ⁠https://www.panorama-therapy.com/⁠

Research - ⁠https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Miranda-Nadeau⁠

Article on Multiracial Mental Health - ⁠https://www.panorama-therapy.com/multiracial-mental-health-1/⁠

Career at Panorama Therapy - ⁠https://www.panorama-therapy.com/careers/⁠

Music Samples:

Intro by ⁠PaulYudin⁠ - ⁠Cinematic Inspiring Motivation

Outro by ⁠Alex⁠⁠ ⁠⁠- ⁠Inspirational Cinematic Adventure 

July 19, 2023

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based therapy that has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of mental health conditions. However, CBT was originally developed in Western cultures with client populations mostly lacking in diversity. Thus, in order to provide equitable treatment, cultural adaptation of CBT (CaCBT) emerged. What components are adapted? What aim, frameworks, and models are considered in order to make a cultural adaptation? In this episode, we hear from Dr. Farooq Naeem, a pioneer in CaCBT.

YouTube Video on Cultural Adapted CBT for South Asians:

⁠https://youtu.be/I3lZJhYZIaY⁠

Dr. Naeem's Contact:

⁠https://psychiatry.utoronto.ca/faculty/farooq-naeem⁠

⁠https://www.camh.ca/en/science-and-research/science-and-research-staff-directory/farooqnaeem⁠

Research

Music Samples:

Intro by ⁠AleXZavesa⁠ - Cinematic Dramatic

Outro by ⁠Alex⁠⁠ ⁠⁠- ⁠Inspirational Cinematic Adventure 

July 12, 2023

When we think about inclusion, what does that really mean? Same is true when we think and talk about community. Who are we including or excluding? What would it be like to truly appreciate and celebrate all the unique holidays? How do we truly change and examine our own internalized racist ideas and positionality of Whiteness in our beliefs? In this episode, Dr. Rehman Abdulrehman brings forth evocative ideas and practical steps in doing cross-cultural work. 

Dr. Abdulrehman's Contact:

https://leadwithdiversity.com/

Dr. Abdulrehman's Work:

https://livingwithracism.com/⁠

⁠https://leadwithdiversity.com/testbias/⁠

⁠Different People Podcast

Music samples:

Intro by ⁠Ramolmusic⁠ - ⁠Joyful Eid Al-Fitr 

Outro by ⁠⁠Alex⁠⁠ - Inspirational Cinematic Adventure

June 29, 2023

Immigration evaluations are often misunderstood and most assume it pertains to only undocumented immigrants. Immigration psychological evaluations are essentially used to explain the mental health state of an individual in an immigration case, which can include the immigrant as well as their partners, depending on the referral question. Most evaluations will likely explore trauma and sometimes the immigrants who undergo these evaluations may not even recognize that they have undergone trauma and developed PTSD symptoms. How do we build upon our knowledge and remain culturally aware, especially among mental health professionals who work with clients who are immigrants?

Dr. Jimenez's Contact:

⁠https://www.jimenezcounseling.com/⁠

⁠http://houstonimmigrationevaluations.com⁠

Music samples:

Intro by ⁠RomanSenykMusic⁠ - Epic Cinematic Dramatic Adventure Trailer 

Outro by ⁠⁠Alex⁠⁠ - Inspirational Cinematic Adventure

Further Reading:

Mercado, A., Antuña, C. S., Bailey, C., Garcini, L. M., Hass, G. A., Henderson, C. E., Koslofsky, S., Morales, F. R., & Venta, A. (2022). Professional guidelines for psychological evaluations in immigration proceedings. Journal of Latinx Psychology, 10(4), 253–276. ⁠https://doi.org/10.1037/lat0000209⁠

June 22, 2023

In this episode, Dr. Andrew Choi, a 1.5-generation Korean American, speaks about his work and research on Asian Americans and LGBTQ populations. Dr. Choi discusses model minority racialization, content vs. function of stereotype, and implications on career. Additionally, Dr. Choi discusses some strategies and stance in helping clients examine their own oppression by taking a balanced ecological and affirming approach.

Dr. Choi's Contact:

Twitter⁠: https://twitter.com/aycphd⁠

Website: ⁠aycphd.com

Research: ⁠https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Andrew-Choi-7⁠

Research and Papers of note:

Choi, A. Y., & Israel, T. (2016). Centralizing the psychology of sexual minority Asian and Pacific Islander Americans. Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity, 3(3), 345–356. ⁠https://doi.org/10.1037/sgd0000184⁠

Choi, A. Y., Israel, T., & Maeda, H. (2017). Development and evaluation of the Internalized Racism in Asian Americans Scale (IRAAS). Journal of Counseling Psychology, 64(1), 52–64. ⁠https://doi.org/10.1037/cou0000183⁠

Choi, A. Y., Merrill, C. R. S., & Israel, T. (2017). Factor structure of the Internalized Homonegativity Inventory (IHNI). Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity, 4(4), 491–498. ⁠https://doi.org/10.1037/sgd0000245⁠

Music samples:

Intro by ⁠Amaksi⁠ - Inspire Epic Journey

Outro by ⁠Alex⁠ - Inspirational Cinematic Adventure

June 12, 2023

Fighting racism is an ongoing work. It plays out in how we measure and assess mental health symptoms to how we recruit students into graduate training programs. Are we intentional in thinking about ways to actively confront and change racist practices and structures? Standing and fighting against the racist status quo can come at a cost; however, the work is necessary. By not confronting racism, we perpetuate it. In this episode, Dr. Monnica Williams, an African American psychologist, speaks courageously about her work blending in issues of race in looking at OCD assessments, to student recruitment using methods we can all consider in the workplace, to the idea of speaking up and committing to this work.

I encourage listeners to please support anti-racism research, training and practice and the people who are doing this type of work.

Dr. Williams' Contact:

Website - ⁠https://www.monnicawilliams.com

To Donate to Research, donors must make a designation to Dr. Monnica Williams’ research fund - ⁠https://www.uottawa.ca/giving/donation-form⁠

ResearchGate - ⁠https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Monnica-Williams⁠

Authored Books:

Managing Microaggressions: Addressing Everyday Racism in Therapeutic Spaces⁠

Eliminating Race-Based Mental Health Disparities: Equity and Culturally Responsive Care⁠

Sexual Obsessions in OCD: Definitive Guide to Understanding, Diagnosis, & Treatment

Research Articles of Note:

Williams, M. T., Faber, S. C., Nepton, A., & Ching, T. H. W. (2022). Racial justice allyship requires civil courage: A behavioral prescription for moral growth and change. American Psychologist, 78(1), 1–19. https://doi.org/10.1037/amp0000940

Williams, M. T., Domanico, J., Marques, L., LeBlanc, N. J., & Turkheimer, E. (2012). Barriers to treatment among African Americans with obsessive-compulsive disorder. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 26(4), 555–563. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.janxdis.2012.02.009

Williams, M. T., Faber, S. C., & Duniya, C. (2022). Being an anti-racist clinician. The Cognitive Behaviour Therapist, 15. https://doi.org/10.1017/s1754470x22000162

Music Samples from: 

Alex_Kizenkov - Epic Heroic Cinematic Trailer

June 5, 2023

Mindfulness-based interventions have been shown to be effective in treating anxiety and depression (Hofmann & Gomez, 2017) and have even seen a growth in use and in publications (Zhang et al., 2021). However, it is unclear whether those implementing mindfulness-based interventions are culturally responsive that is to: a) differentiate between Buddhism’s Right Mindfulness vs secular Mindfulness; b) understanding and adapting mindfulness-based interventions to meet the needs of populations of color being treated; and c) recognizing potential harms especially when working with populations of color. 

I will be hosting a soft launch webinar (1 CE credit) on Friday, July 28th, 2023 at 10:00 AM Central Standard Time.

Register at ⁠https://www.tmcinstitute.org/continuing-education⁠

Dr. Tsan's Contact:

Website - ⁠https://www.drjacktsan.com/⁠

Music Samples from: ⁠https://pixabay.com/music/⁠

⁠Relaxing Time⁠

⁠Lexin Music - Spirit Landscape

May 31, 2023

A common misconception about Asian Americans and their collectivistic culture is that enmeshment can be used to describe family interpersonal relationships. This perceived sense of enmeshment can sometimes be misunderstood by people from individualistic cultures. If we impose value systems of individualism and boundary setting, how might that impact the relationship with Asian American clients? Is there a way to explore boundaries with Asian American clients in a culturally responsive way? As part of our AAPI series in May, in this episode we hear from Dr. Korde who implements ACT-based strategies in working with clients from the AAPI community to explore boundaries in relationships.

Dr. Korde's Contact:

Website - ⁠https://www.humanpsychotherapy.com/⁠

Research - ⁠https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Runa-Korde⁠

Psychology Today - ⁠https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/runa-korde-san-francisco-ca/1010057


May 26, 2023

The model minority myth is a stereotype that portrays Asian Americans as being a successful and hardworking group of people who have overcome discrimination to achieve success. This myth is often used to minimize the role of racism in the lives of Asian Americans and to pit them against other racialized groups.

The model minority myth has a number of negative impacts on Asian Americans both psychologically and socio-politically. We need to work to dispel this myth and to create a more inclusive society where all people are treated equitably. As part of this AAPI episode, Jaki Yi will be sharing her research on the model minority myth and its negative effects on the AAPI community. Tune in to this important conversation.

Jaki Yi's Contact:

Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/Jaki_Yi_PhD⁠

Research Article:

Yi, J., Neville, H. A., Todd, N. R., & Mekawi, Y. (2023). Ignoring race and denying racism: A meta-analysis of the associations between colorblind racial ideology, anti-Blackness, and other variables antithetical to racial justice. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 70(3), 258–275. ⁠https://doi.org/10.1037/cou0000618⁠

Yi, J., La, R., Lee, B. A., & Saw, A. (2023). Internalization of the model minority myth and sociodemographic factors shaping Asians/Asian Americans' experiences of discrimination during COVID-19. American Journal of Community Psychology, 71, 123– 135. ⁠https://doi.org/10.1002/ajcp.12635⁠

Yi, J., & Todd, N. R. (2021). Internalized model minority myth among Asian Americans: Links to anti-Black attitudes and opposition to affirmative action. Cultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology, 27(4), 569–578. ⁠https://doi.org/10.1037/cdp0000448

May 22, 2023

How do we lead through the example of deep interconnectedness in human relationships?

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Reyna, a descendant of the indigenous peoples, Choctaw and Purépecha. Dr. Reyna shares a brief history of how the Choctaw Nation sent money to starving Irish families during the potato famine in 1847. This act of generosity was particularly remarkable given that the Choctaws had themselves suffered greatly just 16 years earlier during the ⁠Trail of Tears⁠, when they were forced to walk over 5,000 miles from their homeland to Indian Territory.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the ⁠Irish people⁠ returned the Choctaws' generosity by providing aid to Native Americans. Dr. Reyna believes that these acts of kindness and compassion are a testament to the deep interconnectedness of all human beings. She also believes that these values of generosity, community building, and cultural sensitivity are essential for creating a more just and equitable world. As a School Psychologist, Dr. Reyna works to promote these values in her work with students and families. Dr. Reyna's work is an example of how we can all lead through the example of deep interconnectedness in human relationships. By working together to build strong communities and to promote understanding and compassion, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Dr. Reyna's Contact:

Email - rsreyna184@gmail.com

May 15, 2023

In this AAPI episode, we'll be exploring the complex and often contradictory ways that Asian American men are socialized about gender and race. Asian American men are socialized about gender and race largely influenced by white hegemonic masculinity. Further, these messages come from our families, our communities, and the media. They tell Asian American boys and men what it means to be a man, what it means to be Asian, and how those two identities intersect. In this episode, Dr. Keum discusses his findings, themes from the voices of Asian American participants from his recently published article, Asian American Men’s Gendered Racial Socialization and Fragmented Masculinity: Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. Dr. Keum also shares affirming interventions to consider at the therapeutic, family, and systems level.

Link to research article featured in this episode

Asian American Men's Gendered Racial Socialization and Fragmented Masculinity: Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/epub/10.1177/00110000231170310

Dr. Keum's Contact:

Email - briankeum@g.ucla.edu

Website - ⁠https://hitlab.luskin.ucla.edu/⁠

⁠LinkedIn⁠

⁠Research⁠

May 12, 2023

According to the US Census, the Multiracial population has changed considerably since 2010. It was measured at 9 million people in 2010 and is now 33.8 million people in 2020, a 276% increase. Maintaining a sense of cultural humility will be key to helping clients navigate their multiracial identities. In this AAPI episode, Dr. Dhaliwal who identifies as multiracial, shares with us her journey both professionally and personally. She offers tips in the professional space for early career mental health providers. Additionally, Dr. Dhaliwal shares a tip in inviting clients to have difficult conversations about race, even when clients ask about our own racial identity.

Dr. Dhaliwal's Contact:

Website: https://www.raddiversityconsult.com/

Facebook Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/inclusiveaffirming22/

US Census: ⁠https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2021/08/improved-race-ethnicity-measures-reveal-united-states-population-much-more-multiracial.html


May 8, 2023

South Asian Americans are a growing racial group in the United States and make up a large portion of the U.S. immigrant population. Many are highly motivated and come into therapy when many resources have been exhausted. We must recognize that traditional forms of therapy might not work and that it is important to provide a framework, freedom of language expression, and help South Asian clients feel confident in the therapeutic process. In this AAPI episode, Dr. Srivastav will discuss an affirming stance in creating space for South Asian clients in therapy.

Dr. Srivastav's Contact:

Website:  ⁠www.evergreen-psychotherapy.com

May 5, 2023

Many of us who practice psychology in the United States are not aware of the profound and deep Eurocentric ideals embedded in western psychology. How do we learn about the impact and collaborate outside of our immediate network? BIPOC mental health providers are truly well positioned to help reshape and rethink as efforts to decolonize psychology take shape. In this episode, Dr. Neeta speaks to us about the importance of international partnership and shares some of the lessons learned early in her career as a psychologist living abroad.

Dr. Neeta's Contact:

Website: ⁠https://drneeta.com/⁠ 

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/the.global.psychologist/⁠ 

TEDTalk: ⁠https://www.ted.com/talks/dr_neeta_ramkumar_why_psychologists_should_be_everywhere⁠ 

Psychology Across Borders: ⁠https://drneeta.com/psychology-across-borders⁠ 

Resources: ⁠https://drneeta.com/diy-conference 

May 1, 2023

It is well documented that Asian Americans, though well represented in certain workforces, are significantly underrepresented in senior leadership positions. According to Bloomberg, “analysis of national EEOC workforce data found that Asian American white-collar professionals are the least likely group to be promoted into management — less likely than any other race, including Blacks and Hispanics.” Some say it is a cultural difference. However, is that all there is to it? What are some of the internal and external nuances that might be playing a role in this situation? And what is the role of the model minority stereotype? Is it true that most Asians are followers and not leaders? And what are some ways to reframe leadership? In this episode, Dr. Kim speaks about her high impact research on Asian leadership and offers ways to rethink how everyone can rethink leadership qualities and most importantly to understand some of the barriers that Asians in North America face.

Dr. Kim's Contact:

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyouriekim/⁠

Dr. Kim's Research discussed in this episode:

1. Should I lead? An intrapersonal perspective on the Asian–White leadership gap (⁠https://doi.org/10.1037/cbs0000226⁠)

2. Granting Leadership to Asian Americans: the Activation of Ideal Leader and Ideal Follower Traits on Observers’ Leadership Perceptions (⁠https://doi.org/10.1007/s10869-022-09794-3⁠)




May 1, 2023

This month we are celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islanders heritage month. We will be showcasing a series of conversations with AAPI mental health professionals about their contributions. Specifically, we will do a deep dive into each of their specialty clinical or research areas and offer practical tools to consider as part of our personal and professional journey. Another consideration is the importance of a shared community therefore you will also continue to hear published conversations with other BIPOC mental health professionals.

Sources:

https://time.com/5592591/asian-pacific-heritage-month-history/⁠

⁠https://www.npr.org/sections/codeswitch/2013/05/01/180312136/on-celebrating-asian-pacific-american-heritage-month⁠

⁠https://www.archives.gov/exhibits/treasures_of_congress/text/page15_text.html⁠

⁠https://www.history.com/topics/inventions/transcontinental-railroad⁠

⁠https://www.pbs.org/ancestorsintheamericas/program1_1.html⁠

⁠https://www.asian-nation.org/first.shtml

AAPI Episode Cover Illustrator:

Khou Vue - ⁠https://www.koovoo.me/

Ep9 - Gracie Reyes-McDonald, PhD

April 24, 2023

According to the CDC, Autism has been identified in about 1 in 36 children. In the past, autism was often seen as a deficit or a disorder that needed to be fixed. However, there is a growing movement to view autism as a difference or neurodiversity in the wide range of human neurological variation. So how might one take such an affirming stance in Autism Care? What does affirming autism care look like? Furthermore, what are the complexities faced when English is not the primary or first language for a client? 

In the episode, Dr. Reyes-McDonald speaks about her personal experience with Autism, her approach to affirming care, and will be opening a new Autism Center in Texas.


Dr. Reyes-McDonald's Contact:

Grace Psychological Services: https://gracepsychological.com/

Careers at Grace Psychological Services: https://gracepsychological.com/careers/

April 20, 2023

ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that can affect people of all ages, races, and ethnicities. However, research has shown that people of color and women are disproportionately underdiagnosed and undertreated for ADHD. Consequently, some individuals do not get diagnosed until they are an adult. Part of it may be systemic lack of support or resources and lack of understanding normative cultural behaviors. As mental health clinicians are not immune to mental health conditions, there are those who live with ADHD and at times fear disclosing or seeking support for it.

In this episode, Dr. Shauna Pollard talks about her personal journey with ADHD and how it has led her to create a consultation group for BIPOC clinicians with ADHD. Additionally, she discusses resources and uses of current technologies to help her ADHD clients.


Dr. Shauna Pollard's Contact:

Website: ⁠https://drspllc.com/⁠

Email: admin@drspllc.com

⁠ADHD Group for Clinicians: https://drspllc.com/online-therapy/adhd-groups/

April 18, 2023

According to the Pew Research Center, the Muslim population is growing and is one of the fastest growing religions in the United States. Most Muslims in America are immigrants from the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. This year's Ramadan, a religious holiday for Muslims, occurs from March 22, 2023 - April 20, 2023, so many Muslims will be practicing fasting and developing a deep connection with their religion. Also be mindful that, given the intersectionality of ethnicity and religion inside the US historical contexts, how might we aim to support and be an ally to Muslim clients? What are some important themes to explore in therapy and what might a culturally responsive approach look like?

In this episode, Dr. Dadouch shares her clinical practice strategies that mental health professionals can explore to support and be an ally to Muslim clients.


Dr. Dadouch's Contact:

Sakinah Center⁠ - ⁠https://www.sakinah.center/

Email - info@sakinah.center

April 11, 2023

Mentorship can be incredibly valuable for LatinX therapists as they are underrepresented in the mental health field. Consequently, there are unique challenges such as navigating the mental health profession in early-to-mid career, developing clinical and professional skills maintain your own voice, and ultimately building a successful career. Often, mentorship is viewed as a relationship between a more experienced person and a less experienced person, in which the more experienced person provides guidance and support to the less experienced person. But is that necessarily true? In this episode, Dr. Mejia challenges that perspective of mentorship, approaches a growth mindset, and offers a unique perspective in exploring and approaching mentorship.


Dr. Mejia's Contact:

Email - mirnamejiaphd@gmail.com

LinkedIn

Ep5 - Brian Keum, PhD

April 6, 2023

In a digital world where social media and online content is easily accessible, it is becoming ever more important to think about online racism and the impact it has on people of color. According to research, there is a unique difference between online racism versus traditional means of exposure. Once the exposure to online racism occurs, it is the hope that mental health professionals have the appropriate interventions to help their clients. For this episode, Dr. Keum shares his research and strategies that mental health professionals can adopt to support their clients exposed to online racism.


Dr. Keum's Contact:

Email - briankeum@g.ucla.edu

Website - ⁠https://hitlab.luskin.ucla.edu/⁠

⁠LinkedIn⁠

⁠Research⁠


Several Research Papers Briefly Mentioned in this Episode

1. ⁠Profiles of online racism exposure and mental health among Asian, Black, and Latinx emerging adults in the United States⁠

2. ⁠Online Racism, Rumination, and Vigilance: Impact on Distress, Loneliness, and Alcohol Use⁠

3. ⁠Coping with online racism: Patterns of online social support seeking and anti-racism advocacy associated with online racism, and correlates of ethnic-racial socialization, perceived health, and alcohol use severity⁠

4. ⁠Witnessing racism against racial minority individuals online and loneliness among White emerging adults: Anti‐racism advocacy as a moderator

April 3, 2023

This world can be a challenge when systems we live in do not support how we show up based on race and gender identity. Being an effective therapist to help individuals navigate such a system requires that we create a space to hold our biases, consult, and help clients stay the course with their goals. In this episode, Dr. Wilson discusses her work implementing systems thinking and you can hear about several important steps to consider at the therapist level and in implementing culturally informed cognitive behavioral therapy.


Dr. Wilson's Contact:

⁠https://holistic-purpose.com/⁠


Recommended Book: 

⁠Mental Health Practice with LGBTQ+ Children, Adolescents, and Emerging Adults in Multiple Systems of Care (Diverse Sexualities, Genders, and Relationships)⁠

March 7, 2023

Mental health professionals saw an increase in people seeking mental health services during the pandemic. Due to the increased demand, it is likely that many mental health professionals at some point in time experienced compassion fatigue. For people of color especially, compassion fatigue hits even harder while trying to navigate one’s lived experiences, meanwhile also advocating for social justice work that can impact clients who are marginalized. In this episode, Natasha D'Arcangelo talks about her strategies at the macro and micro level to nurture her therapeutic relationship with clients that are marginalized and remain enriched in her work as a mental health professional to prevent compassion fatigue.


Natasha's Contact:

LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/natasha-darcangelo


Recommended Books:

Anti-Racist Psychotherapy: Confronting Systemic Racism and Healing Racial Trauma - By David Archer

Forward-Facing(R) Professional Resilience: Prevention and Resolution of Burnout, Toxic Stress and Compassion Fatigue - By Eric Gentry and Jeffrey Dietz

February 24, 2023

OCD symptoms amongst African American clients may be misunderstood or undetected. In this episode, we explore how to better understand African American clients who experience OCD symptoms. Dr. Moore discusses her experience working with African American clients, unique OCD subtypes beyond just checking and cleaning, and how to maintain a culturally responsive presence in therapy.


Dr. Moore's Contact:

Website: www.drjameekamoore.com

Instagram: jam_sessionz

Ep1 - Jack Tsan, Ph.D.

February 6, 2023

People of Color in Psychology is where mental health professionals gain insight to culturally relevant psychological practice and research. You’ll learn from mental health experts to help advance your personal and professional development. As people of color and mental health professionals, this podcast hopes to steer the conversation about psychological practice and science to be more inclusive. Equally important considerations include, how do we share each other’s unique experiences to help inform our personal and professional growth? How might we support and encourage each other? How might we find a community with similar experiences as a person of color?

If you are a BIPOC professional in the mental health field and would like to be on the podcast, "People of Color in Psychology", please send us an email!

Listen to where you get your podcast!

LinkLinkSpotifyLinkLink