Thriving in Diversity: The Power of Minority-Majority Organizations in Mental Health
Written by Kayla Childs, Marketing & Digital Communications Manager at Colors of Austin Counseling
Embracing Diversity as the Backbone of our Work
“At Colors of Austin Counseling, our team is primarily made up of minorities; how do you think that differs from traditional working environments made up of predominately White/Caucasian individuals?”
This was a question that I was faced with during an interview for my role at COAC. And I didn’t have an answer. In my decade-long career, I can honestly say I’ve never been in such an environment (at my place of work). The simple thought of it was immensely intriguing and yet unimaginable. What would it be like to be in a room where I’m not the only woman of color; to be surrounded by individuals who share some of my same lived experiences; to not have to practice the art of code-switching? At Colors of Austin Counseling, diversity isn't just a buzzword; it's the foundation of this organization. As a Latina-owned therapy practice, we've crafted an environment where individuals from marginalized communities aren't the exception—they are the majority. This unique dynamic isn't just a facet of our identity; it's a cornerstone of our success.
The Strength of Representation: A Team Reflecting the Community
One of the most empowering aspects of working at Colors of Austin Counseling is being part of a team that mirrors the communities we serve. Our staff isn't just culturally diverse; they bring a rich variety of experiences, identities, and perspectives. For our clients, seeing therapists who share their backgrounds isn't just comforting; it's often a catalyst for trust and understanding. Almost 75 percent of mental health professionals in the US today are white (source). That leaves roughly 25 percent as non-white, whether they identify as Black, Indigenous, persons of color or some other race or ethnicity. Needless to say, the side of the scale with the minority mental health professionals needs some weighing down - that’s obvious. But with those kinds of numbers reflective of the entire profession, what a gem to find a group like COAC - in Austin, Texas of all places.
Cultural Competence as a Foundation for Empathy
In a minority-majority organization, cultural competence isn't an added skill; it's a given. Our therapists inherently understand the nuances of intersectionality and the impact of systemic issues on mental health. We understand the generational traumas of being a POC (person of color), because we share those same generational traumas. This deep understanding allows us to provide more empathetic and tailored care, navigating cultural barriers with finesse. Even for me, as a non-clinician at the practice, I can approach my work through the lens of a person of color, and not a whitewashed, watered down politically-correct sense. We are bold, and unapologetically working toward the decolonization and destigmatizing of mental health care through every facet of our work.
Nurturing an Inclusive Workspace
Working in an environment where minorities are the majority isn't just about client care; it's about fostering an inclusive workplace culture. At Colors of Austin Counseling, everyone's voice is not only heard but celebrated. This inclusivity breeds a sense of belonging and safety, enabling our team to thrive personally and professionally. On my first day in the office for orientation, I was overjoyed to see another black woman sitting next to me and instantly felt the familiar gravitational pull of sisterhood that was typically so rare in the corporate space. Like “Hey, you’re my person! Let’s ride this out together.” Then I met another person of color, and another, and another. And I soon realized, this is different.
The Ripple Effect: Impact Beyond Our Walls
The impact of a minority-majority organization transcends our counseling rooms. By breaking barriers and amplifying diverse voices, we contribute to a broader societal shift towards inclusivity and equity. We serve as role models, inspiring others in our field and beyond to embrace diversity as a strength rather than a limitation.
A Vibrant Mosaic of Strength and Resilience
Working at Colors of Austin Counseling isn't just a job; it's a journey—a celebration of diversity, resilience, and empowerment. In a world where minorities often feel marginalized, our organization stands as a beacon of hope, proving that when minorities are the majority, the potential for impact is boundless.
At Colors of Austin Counseling, we're not just therapists; we're advocates, champions, and catalysts for change. We are on a mission to change the mental health landscape by destigmatizing and decolonizing therapy in a way that is safe, accepting and empowering for all.
Want to learn more about the power of diversity in the mental health field? Check out this article for a deeper dive.
