Black Woman’s Psyche: An Exploration Into Complexity

Catalog description

This workshop focuses on the ways in which psychotherapists are consciously and unconsciously aware of their relationship to and with Black women, defined here as women who claim a racial, cultural or ethnic identity linked to the African diaspora. Thus, this definition recognizes that Black women’s identities and corresponding psyches are not universal. Rather, there exists a complex-and often complicated-way in which these women are recognized and understood by themselves as well as by the broader society. The workshop explores the distinctions between archetypal representations and social stereotypes, as well as cultural complexes, shadow presentations and defense mechanisms frequently associated with the Black woman’s psyche. Through interactive experiences, discussion, self reflection and writing, the workshop aims to increase participant’s understanding of their own values and beliefs as they relate to Black women. The class will help delineate best practices for establishing a strong therapeutic alliance, whether inter-culturally or intra-culturally. Therefore, this workshop seeks to increase key skills and knowledge necessary quality psychotherapy for Black women.