Date of Award

8-2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Department

Executive Leadership

First Supervisor

Dr. Shannon Cleverley-Thompson

Second Supervisor

Dr. Tanya Henderson

Abstract

Research has indicated that mental health within the Black community has been a consistent challenge. Mistrust, systemic racism, socioeconomic challenges, incarceration, and self-resiliency through faith have impacted the Black community’s mental health. Although mental health education and awareness have increased, Black individuals have continued to progress at lower rates compared to other races. The study’s purpose was to examine the experiences of Black individuals with an incarcerated family member in seeking and accessing mental health counseling in New York State by asking the research question and sub-question. What are the lived experiences of Black individuals with an incarcerated immediate family member in seeking and accessing mental health counseling in New York State? 2) In what ways does the intersection of knowledge gaps and having an incarcerated family member influence Black individuals’ help-seeking behaviors, perceptions of mental health counseling services, and the overall health care system in New York State? Findings show that the race of the counselor, learned silence, mental health challenges, and knowledge of service navigation are the critical barriers for Black individuals in seeking and accessing mental health counseling. Recommendations for future research include broadening the geographical research area, including additional familial layers, and improving clinical enrollment practice.

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