Amidst the Chaos: Developing a Counseling Psychologist Identity during Ongoing Social Unrest

Abstract

Abstract In this reflection paper we discuss the complex challenge of undergoing Counseling Psychology doctoral training as gender expansive women of color during times of great sociopolitical unrest in the United States (U.S.). We consider how via insider status, we are uniquely impacted by engagement in clinical and research work with diverse communities that face ongoing threats to their social and psychological well-being. However, our insider positions are rarely considered in our training experiences. We argue that the field of Counseling Psychology must make a concerted effort to center the voices of students with minoritized identities or runs the risk of engaging in White supremacist practices. We end with recommendations for how Counseling Psychology can better consider and address the needs of doctoral students with minoritized identities.