Black men therapists discuss disparities within mental health

Therapists share why Black men are resistant to therapy and how to change it. ATLANTA — Therapists in Atlanta are talking about a disparity in the mental health field. A study from the American Psychological Association shows that Black therapists make up only 4% of all therapists. It also shows that Black men are less likely to try therapy, but when they do, they want one that looks like them.  Licensed counselor Justen DeBowles said he believes Black therapists make up less that half of that 4%. And traditional male ideology contributes to why Black men seem to be resistant to seeking therapy. “If you express emotion, it’s a sign of either femininity or outright weakness,” DeBowles said. Licensed counselor Coty Martin said there’s a lot of pressure on Black men. “It’s not the easiest thing to do, especially when we’re trying to provide,” Martin said. “We’re trying to protect.” Not just protecting their loved ones, but also themselves. Martin said Black men see people who look like them get shot and killed what feels like every other day, such as 15-year-old Mario Bailey. And they see Black men dying during police interactions, such as Johnny Hollman. He said it’s...