This introductory workshop provides an overview of practical strategies and techniques for addressing the challenges and stress generated from experiences with racial discrimination. The workshop begins with a brief overview of the race-related issues that African American families bring to the therapy room. Informed by the latest theory and research, the workshop equips therapists with practical tools on addressing racial issues in psychotherapy to help therapists open up these discussions and validate families’ experiences. Strategies for helping parents and teens problem-solve in response to tricky and/or painful racial dilemmas are reviewed. Attendees practice techniques for helping parents and teens navigate such discussions. The session concludes with a brief question and answer session and a closing 2-minute meditative affirmation for racial healing.  Original webcast date: August 6, 2020.

Learning Objectives

1. Describe and define the racism and racial socialization and their importance for parenting African American youth and positive youth development.
2. Describe the ways relationship dynamics (e.g., between parents and children, child age, gender, and temperament) and the racial composition of neighborhoods, schools, and community institutions affect the racial socialization process.
3. Apply practical skills for addressing racial issues with African American families in the therapeutic context.