“The aspect of “post” outlined in PTSD does not reflect racial trauma because BIPOC individuals continue to consistently live through societal oppression.”

-Dr. Jude Mary Cénat

It is essential that behavioral health professionals understand the trauma their BIPOC clients may have experienced (and continue to experience). Participants will learn key concepts of racial trauma, including white supremacy, acculturation, colonial mentality, and internalized racism. We will discuss the division that may occur among BIPOC due to internalized racism and the colonial mentality, all of which is compounded by issues of class, gender identity, sexual orientation, and disability.Participants will identify ways to embody values of social justice and anti-oppression in work with clients.

This is an introductory level class that is recommended to complete prior to the training on May 13 & 20 Implementing an Anti-Racist Therapeutic Framework.

Receive 3 cultural hours of continuing education through the NM Counseling and Therapy Practice Board and the American Psychological Association (APA).

The trainer, Sheila Ciminera, LCSW is a social worker and owner of To Bear Witness Therapy.  She began her career working in syringe exchange and has been a proud harm reductionist ever since. Over the past 16 years, she has had the privilege of being a case manager, program developer, individual and group therapist, clinical supervisor, acudetox specialist, professor, and trainer. Her primary focus is supporting helping professionals with compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma. She also specializes in working with individuals dealing with trauma, addictions, and justice involvement- all through the lens of trauma-informed care.