Racial trauma, or race-based traumatic stress, is the cumulative effects of racism on an individual’s mental and physical health. Trauma induced anxiety arrests the vocal process and blocks the creative flow of authentic self-expression. The trauma affects the involuntary nervous system, body, brain, and memory function. It is hard to recognize this level of trauma therefore clients are mislabeled as oppositional defiant, difficult to engage, or resistant. A lack of knowledge compromises clinical discussions and outcomes. It is imperative for a safe environment to be created where individuals can be seen fully as they are, without pretense. People of color, traditionally, don't feel welcomed and tend to avoid mainstream clinical resources and consequently are unable to access much needed sometimes critical resources.
Presentation Resources
Sherronda Jamerson, MA, CDPSherronda Jamerson obtained a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology in 2012 from City University College in Seattle, WA, and became certified as a Chemical Dependency Professional in 2007. Her experiences include developing, implementing, and presenting EDI trainings to associations of healthcare professionals, healthcare providers, schools, and community-based organizations. She has also presented at state and national behavioral health conferences on the topics of DEI and Healthcare Equity. She presents with confidence and passion.
