Learning and Healing From Anti-Black Racism in Counseling: A Critical Narrative Inquiry

• In Event: Racial Identity and Healing: Insights From Diverse Experiences in Counseling Education

Abstract

We report on Black counselors’ narratives on anti-Black racism in the field. Using Critical Race Theory (Bell, 1995; Delgado & Stefancic; Taylor & Ladson-Billings, 2009) and Theory of Nigrescence (Cross et al., 1991), we situate anti-Black racism in counseling through storytelling. Our analysis indicated participants experienced anti-Black racism before and during their counseling program enrollment and as professional counselors. Our recommendations illustrate the need for ongoing program climate assessments, support for graduates to identify agency fit, and more intervention research to document how Black and other counselors of color can be safe in counseling programs and the agencies where they work.

Author

• Michael D. Hannon, Montclair State University