Creating Strength-Based Routes for Black Males to Survive and Thrive in Counselor Education Spaces

Abstract The care and development of culturally responsive Black male counselor educators and counselors is paramount, particularly considering the heightened focus on police mistreatment of Black men during the COVID-19 pandemic. This period underscored the need to address Black mental health with greater urgency. Given the scarcity of studies on nurturing Black male counselors, the authors’ work examines critical academic climate factors, including research and sponsorship, training, and community engagement. The authors believe this research supports Black men’s enrollment and success in counseling programs. By examining the experiences of one Black male Counselor Education & Supervision (CES) professor and three Black male students at an HBCU, the authors highlight the care and practices essential for developing culturally responsive Black male counselor educators in these challenging times. This work aims to illustrate and promote the necessary steps to ensure Black men enter the counseling profession and thrive within it.