BIPOC Resources
Definition:
BIPOC is an acronym that stands for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.
It is used to center the unique experiences of Black and Indigenous communities within the broader group of people of color, acknowledging the distinct histories of systemic oppression, colonization, and racialized violence they have faced. The term seeks to a firm solidarity among non-white communities while recognizing the need for specificity in addressing racial equity and justice.
Websites & Blogs:
Books:
The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health by Dr. Rheeda Walker
Decolonizing Therapy by Dr. Jennifer Mullan
Healing the Soul Wound: Trauma-Informed Counseling for Indigenous Communities by Eduardo Duran
Videos:
Why we need to decolonize psychology - Thema Bryant
What We Carry for Our Ancestors: Intergenerational Healing - Serene Thin Elk
Survivors Of Native American Boarding Schools Discuss Dark History In The U.S. - NBC News
Podcasts:
Resource List:
Questions BIPOC Individuals Can Ask a Therapist:
What experience do you have working with clients from my cultural background?
This helps gauge their exposure and understanding of your community.How do you bring culture, race, or identity into the therapy space?
Therapy should honor your full identity, not avoid it.How do you handle situations where you might not understand a part of my lived experience?
This reveals humility, openness to learning, and respect for your perspective.Do you have training in cultural responsiveness or anti-oppressive practices?
Shows their intentional work toward being inclusive and aware.How do you help clients who feel caught between their cultural expectations and personal mental health needs?
You’re looking for understanding around family, community, and cultural obligations.
Tips for Therapists:
Prioritize Cultural Humility Over Cultural Competence
Recognize you’ll never fully understand every client’s background and be willing to unlearn biases.Name the Impact of Racism and Oppression
Don’t shy away from conversations about racial trauma, microaggressions, and systemic inequities.
Validate the client's lived experiences rather than minimizing or pathologizing them.
Educate Yourself Continuously
Learn about cultural traditions, terms, norms, and challenges faced by different BIPOC communities.Avoid expecting clients to always teach you about their culture during session time.
Consider Intersectionality
Identity is not just race—gender, sexuality, class, history, and faith all intersect.Apply Evidence-Based Practices with Cultural Sensitivity
Modify language, interventions, or exercises to reflect the client’s worldview.