Research has shown disparities in mental health outcomes and representation for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), as well as challenges in standardized diagnostics. For instance, Black individuals are more likely to receive a schizophrenia diagnosis compared to white individuals, and Black adolescents may exhibit depression differently than other groups.Tips
Tips-Identify your needs and preferences: When seeking mental health support, it can be daunting to know where to start. Many individuals struggle to determine what qualities to prioritize in a mental health professional.
Consider compatibility: I recommend seeking similar qualities in a mental health professional as you would in a friend.
Create a criteria list: To establish your non-negotiables, reflect on the type of support you require.
Inquire about experience: Once you have identified your needs, ask potential providers about their experience working with clients with similar needs.
Initiate the search process: After outlining my essential criteria, I began researching available professionals, both in-person and online. Here are some guidelines to assist you:
Leverage your connections: During my college years, finding a mental health professional was simplified by my university’s provision of six free counseling sessions for students.
Seek advice from others: I consulted with two BIPOC peers about their experiences in finding the right therapist. They shared their journey and successful strategies.
Embrace trial and error: Just as I had to explore multiple counselors before discovering the right match for me, individuals of color often engage with several counselors before finding a suitable fit.
Research has shown mental health disparities for BIPOC individuals, with challenges in diagnostics. Black individuals may receive schizophrenia diagnoses more often than white individuals, and Black adolescents may show depression differently.
When seeking mental health support, identify your needs and preferences. Look for qualities in a mental health professional that you value in a friend.
Create a criteria list of non-negotiables for the support you require. Ask potential providers about their experience with clients with similar needs.
Initiate the search process by researching available professionals, both in-person and online. Utilize connections, seek advice from others, and be open to trial and error in finding the right therapist.
