phenomenological study of black males in the mental health profession

• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/2047/D20196173

Using a phenomenological approach and the feminist ecological perspective, this qualitative study used individual semi-structured interviews to explore the perceptions and lived experiences of 10 Black male psychotherapists from the New England area regarding their motivation for entering the field and their perceptions about their under representation in practice. Nine themes were generated from the individual narratives with each theme containing one or more sub themes. Those themes included (a) Important Relationships with Adults who Encouraged or Supported their Pursuits; (b) Inner/Personal Qualities; (c) Psychological Orientation; (d) Barriers to Entry; (e) Intersection of Culture and Oppression; (f) Masculine Identity; (g) Benefits of Increasing Culturally Aware Black Male Clinicians; (h) For Us By Us (FUBU); and (i) Intentional Recruitment and Retention. Participants through their stories revealed that Black male clinicians in the New England area have had to overcome regular exposure to systematic oppression and racism in America. The participants also highlighted their dedication to social change and social justice, which has enabled them to endure and overcome, despite enduring traumatic circumstances in their lives. The contributions of the study, limitations and future recommendations for research are also discussed.