What’s Next? On Better Supporting Women of Color Clinicians in University Counseling Centers

Abstract

As university counseling centers (UCCs) are diversifying, research on the experiences of clinicians of color, particularly women of color (WOC), and how they navigate their sociocultural identities at UCC workplace settings remains limited. We used a qualitative thematic analysis approach to explore the current support they receive, suggestions for UCCs to better support WOC, and suggestions for other WOC interested in pursuing a career at UCCs. A total of 56 participants responded to an online survey. Two broad themes emerged with the data around (a) existing and expanding support from UCCs for WOC and (b) advice for WOC interested in pursuing a career in UCCs. Subthemes delineated were (a) professional development and support and (b) workplace climate. While most participants named how their agencies supported them, many provided suggestions on how UCCs can improve from the process of recruitment, retention, leadership, and professional development to being respectful of WOC’s boundaries and needs. Related to workplace climate, participants appreciated the spaces created for either them or their clients of color. They suggested UCCs to be strategic in providing spaces where genuine feedback can be provided, creating various spaces for WOC (e.g., listserv, lunch group), and facilitating ongoing diversity training and discussions. Participants also imparted their wisdom to WOC through encouragement and practical advice. This study centers the voices of WOC clinicians and discusses the importance of self-advocacy, the various supports needed from institutions, and how White supervisors and mentors can better serve their WOC supervisees and trainees.