Promoting Change Through the Voices of Black Graduate Students: A Qualitative Exploration of the Experiences of Black Graduate Students in MFT Program

Char'dae Bell; Maria Portillo; Kamille Greene; Chelsea Spencer

doi:10.29333/ejecs/2419

Authors

Char'dae Bell Kansas State University https://orcid.org/0009-0009-8330-570X
Maria Portillo https://orcid.org/0009-0001-1741-1784
Kamille Greene https://orcid.org/0009-0007-6360-2243
Chelsea Spencer https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1312-1103

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29333/ejecs/2419

Keywords:

Black graduate students, marriage and family therapy (MFT) programs, barriers and support, racism and tokenism and mentorship and representation

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the diverse experiences of Black students who are currently enrolled in, or recently graduated from, various marriage and family therapy (MFT) graduate school programs in the United States. This study uses minority stress theory and critical race theory to explore the lived experiences of Black graduate students at predominately White higher education institutions. The study sample includes 14 individuals (13 female, 1 male) that identify as Black graduate students in MFT programs across the United States. The study sample consists of seven students working towards a master’s degree and seven students pursuing a doctoral degree. Results were analyzed using the thematic analysis approach. The results indicate there are several barriers Black students in MFT graduate programs including: financial concerns, racism, difficulty practicing self-care, lack of diversity within programs, and lack of support. The results also indicate support measures Black graduate students would have liked to see provided in their programs. These include mentorship, representation, and allyship. Implications based on the results are later discussed.

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Author Biographies

Char'dae Bell, Kansas State University

Char’dae C. Bell, MA is a doctoral student in the Couple and Family Therapy program in the Department of Applied Human Sciences at Kansas State University. Her research interests include the role of African American Vernacular English (AAVE) in comprehension of mental health diagnoses, culturally responsive clinical practice, and examining the intersections of language, culture, and mental health.

Maria Portillo

Maria F. Portillo, M.S., T-LMFT, is a therapist and PhD Candidate in the Couple and Family Therapy program in the Department of Applied Human Sciences at Kansas State University. Maria's research interests include consensual non-monogamy, sexual desire, and how people of color navigate intimacy and partnership within cultural and systemic contexts.

Kamille Greene

Kamille M. Greene, Ph.D., currently serves as the Community Clinical Counselor for the Marine Corps Community Services in Arlington, VA. Dr. Greene’s clinical and research interests include minority populations, at-risk youth, intimate partner violence, co-parenting dynamics, and couples therapy. She also enjoys teaching undergraduate and graduate courses with focus areas that include conflict resolution, developing healthy relationships, and diversity.

Chelsea Spencer

Chelsea M. Spencer, Ph.D., is a research assistant professor in the Couple and Family Therapy program in the Department of Applied Human Sciences at Kansas State University. Dr. Spencer's research interests include intimate partner violence, intimate partner homicide, animal abuse, and sexual violence. She specializes in conducting meta-analyses and other quantitative research methods.

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