The Carolinas Group Psychotherapy Society

announces a workshop FREE to members!

($30 for non-members)

An exciting 3-hour online Seminar for therapists
to enhance Diversity, Equity and Inclusion skills on Saturday, February 20, 2021 @ 1 - 4 PM

The Invisible Struggle

Expanding Holistic Cultural Awareness for Self-Development
and to Increase Effectiveness When Working with Black Clients

A Presentation and Discussion led by

B. Diggs Williams, MSW, LCSW

Purpose of This Program

Over the past few years there has been growing tensions and multifaceted challenges that our country has endured. Arguably, the common factor that has been most divisive is associated with racial categorizations and consequent divisions of people along the same lines. Recent happenings related to civil unrest have a direct correlation to the forementioned challenges.

Dissention of this nature has also been one of the most significant historical barriers to harmony and peace. It has become increasingly apparent that there currently is a lack of specific training and therapeutic offerings directly related to managing and/or treating race related issues. As a point of responsibility, the lack of resources pertaining to this national crisis must change.

Description:

The goal of this training is to provide information related to the development and manifestations of prejudice, discrimination, and racism. In theory this will empower participants to develop through introspection and continuous self-analysis. Also, providers will be empowered to better serve Black clients. This training will involve both psycho-education and processing. Challenges inherent to both the provider and client will be addressed.

Outcome/Objectives:

At the conclusion of this training, learners will:

Gain understanding concerning the formation of bias
Better recognize and counter maladaptive cognitive formations
Develop understanding concerning the weight of factors that contribute to human bias
Progress in self-awareness concerning personal implicit bias
Increase tolerance and decrease fragility when faced with uncomfortable dialogue
Grow in understanding the need to be intentional in fighting the threat of dissension
Cultivate more understanding of the challenges and needs in MH for Black clients

Meet Our Presenter:

B. Diggs Williams, LCSW

Mr. Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and currently works full-time at the Durham VA Medical Center (DVAMC). He provides individual, couples, and (primarily) group therapy through the VA. He received his Bachelor of Social Work degree in 2005 (UNCG), his Master of Social Work in 2012 (JMSW Program), and his clinical license in 2012. Mr. Williams carries a national certification in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression. He also specializes in personal/spiritual development, transitional thinking, and cultural competency with a focus on the Black community.

Mr. Williams is involved in multiple efforts that contribute to ally-ship, diversity and inclusion, and anti-Black racism efforts at the departmental and facility level at the Durham VA. He created, developed, and facilitates “The Invisible Struggle” therapeutic group which focuses on providing clinical mental health care for veterans dealing with stress unique to Black people in America. He also serves on multiple boards/teams at the DVAMC including: The Antiracism and Black Equity Advisory Board, the Diversity and Inclusion Workgroup, and the Social Work Service Social Justice Committee. Mr. Williams has provided consultation to multiple levels of supervisors from entry level to the director of the Durham VA and the executive leadership team.

Mr. Williams is a Racial Equity Institute Alumni, has participated in their Black and White caucuses, and continues to contribute to the cause of equity when possible. He has also created and leads a community organization called “Lion Tamers” that is dedicated to the holistic development of Black men. This development takes place mainly in “Sharpening Sessions” which are small groups held virtually (due to the pandemic) monthly. During these sessions focus is placed on education, fellowship, and general support.