In 2022, suicide was identified as the third leading cause of death among Black or African Americans aged 10 to 24. Despite the acute mental health needs within this community, only 4% of clinical psychologists in the U.S. are Black. This lack of representation may contribute to the low number of Black individuals seeking professional mental health assistance.
Addressing this issue, two Rutgers alumni have published a guide aimed at helping therapists understand race-based trauma in Black clients. Jennifer Jones-Damis and Kelly Moore have highlighted how cultural, social, and political pressures often push discussions about racism into obscurity.
Their book, “Racial Trauma in Black Clients: Effective Practice for Clinicians,” provides strategies for integrating these conversations into therapy sessions and beyond.
Jennifer Jones-Damis explains that race-based trauma can be experienced “vicariously” by Black individuals: “When we witness a racial event – online, in the news or in real life – and the person victimized looks like us, it hits differently.” She notes that even if not directly involved, the impact is still felt.
Kelly Moore shares an example from their book about a client named Sean: “Sean is a composite example of clients we have worked with over the years meant to illustrate the mechanisms by which trauma affects daily life for Black people.” Sean’s story demonstrates how exposure to racial violence can lead to anxiety and fear.
Jones-Damis emphasizes that racial trauma theory isn’t widely taught: “Many of the theories and concepts of psychology were created by white male psychologists.” She stresses the importance of addressing these gaps in understanding Black clients’ experiences.
Moore adds that clinicians should feel comfortable discussing racism with their clients: “Race-based trauma is a lived experience for so many Black people… we’re hoping clinicians of all backgrounds will realize that it’s okay to bring it into the room.”
The authors hope their book will improve therapy experiences for Black clients. Jones-Damis aims to provide language for common experiences: “I hope clinicians… understand that the experience of racial trauma on Black individuals is real.”
Moore expresses her desire for more open discussions about racism in therapy: “My hope… is that more Black people go to therapy and can talk comfortably with their clinician about racism because the clinician is open and willing to talk about it.”
Both authors recognize current challenges but remain optimistic. Jones-Damis reflects on her work as part of a larger movement: “If this book was ever needed, it’s needed now.” Moore echoes this sentiment, emphasizing courage over caution during these times.
