In this second episode with Dr. Ajamu we continue our discussion with an analysis of the novel The Healers by Ayi Kweh Armah. We process the manner in which Armah weaves psychology into his work, challenging us to critically look at what it means to assist the healing process in an inspirational manner. This fun and lively conversation is a bit different than our normal conversations, but one our listeners are sure to enjoy.

Black Folks do Therapy

Episode 26: Part II Interview with Dr. Adisa Ajamu - Psychology and Armah - Analyzing the book The Healers

I met with Dr. Ajamu to discuss his path to becoming a psychologist and his interactions with the psychologists who influenced his path. We processed the importance of developmental psychologists creating a new paradigm for understanding the African American community and creating new paradigms for healing. Finally, we discussed a framework for discussing and understanding the psychological impact of the work of author Ayi Kwei Armah.

Episode 25: Interview with Dr. Adisa Ajamu - On Being a Developmental Psychologist and the impact on the African American community

In this episode we talk with Ms. Dearta Smith about her work as a Speech Language Pathologist, and how this relates to mental health. During the podcast she describes her role within the public school system, provides some of the reasons why speech and language services are provided to children, discusses some of her experiences working with children diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum and explains how Assistive Technology can facilitate communication. She also briefly examined the role of parenting in observing and identifying warning signs of communication concerns. Lastly we discussed her inspiration for authoring several children's books and discussed how parents can facilitate a lifelong love for literacy with their children.

Episode 24: Interview with Ms. Dearta Smith M.A., Speech Pathologist

In this interview, we discussed the impact of policy and the effectiveness of policy making on the mental health of underserved communities. We discussed the legal and political hurdles that must be navigated to allow for access to programs that will bring about equity and healing. We discussed the impact of the current racial climate and how this affects the Black community in addition to interventions for healing.

Episode 23: Interview with Dr. Kevin Cokely, University of Texas

Talked with Dr. Washington about his career path into psychology and how it has manifested. We discussed issues related to Black Psychology and managing our spirit during this time in our country. Discussed issues related to Black men and mental health. We also touched on some of the historical aspects of etiology of Black Psychology and the current and future states.

Episode 22: Interview with Dr. Kevin Washington, Grambling State University

We talked with Dr. Kristee Haggins about her work with Emotional Emancipation Circles, Ubuntu Circles and Black Safe Spaces. We processed the need for the healing these circles provide and looked at the format that they take. Discussed the origins of these healing modalities as a result of unfounded murders by police within the Black community as a means to cope with the trauma these experiences create. Offered methods for people to get engaged with these circles moving forward.

Episode 21: Interview with Dr. Kristee Haggins, Sacramento CA Emotional Emancipation Circles

Talked with Dr. Swift about the nature of change in the time of protest regarding injustice. Discussed racial disparities and interventions for healthy living. Also discussed specific strategies for remaining healthy.

Episode 20: Interview with Dr. Monique Swift, Mental Health and Justice in the time of George Floyd

We discussed the recent murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis and the catastrophic mental health impact this is having on the African American community. Dr. Barner relates personal history related to his proximity to the murder of Emmit Till in Mississippi and the current murder in Minneapolis. We discussed the psychological trauma and conditioning that takes place in the African American community and the long term effect on individuals. We also considered the necessity of studying the evil nature that allows someone to commit such an atrocious act.

Episode 19: Interview with Dr. Pearl Barner Minneapolis MN - Managing emotions related to the Murder of George Floyd

Episode 18: Interview with Dr. Tania Lodge, Clinical Director at Minority Health Group, Akron Ohio

Episode 17: Interview with Dr. Wade Nobles - The importance and evolution of Black Psychology and the Association of Black Psychology

Topics covered include what it means to be an African centered therapist, managing stress in the age of Covid-19, ways to manage negative emotions and being your best self.

Episode 16: Interview With Dr. Jamila Codrington, Brooklyn New York

Episode 15: Dr. Valerie Jackson of Monarch Family Services, Child psychology

Episode 14: Interview with Dr. Shawanda Anderson, Neuropsychologist Houston Texas

Mental health is being recognized as a necessary component of overal health in Zimbabwe but is slow to gain full acceptance. Ms. Machando is doing work to help her community to recognize the benefits and how they can access these services. We discuss the trauma women face and how she helps them to heal from this using various techniques. Also discuss the treatment process as it exists in Harare.

Episode 13: Ms. Debra Machando Harare Zimbabwe - Psychological practices in Harare

Episode 12: Dr. Ifetayo Ojelade A Healing Paradigm (Atlanta, Georgia)

Welcome to Black Folks do Therapy where we endeavor to challenge you to think critically about your mental health and overall wellness. Our goal is to inspire you to align your values and actions and live your life fully 86400 seconds every single day. We do this in part by asking questions and raising issues that you may not have previously considered. Ultimately, we encourage you to do those things that help you to live your best life consistently, always working towards balance.

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Black Folks do Therapy

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