Cultural Awareness:
The influence of Black “culture” on substance use disorders and making therapy look “cool.”
Presented by Kendria Harris, MA, LCAS, CCS
Workshop Overview
Cultural competency involves understanding and respecting the diverse backgrounds, values, and experiences of clients, which is crucial in addressing the unique challenges faced by different cultural groups. For instance, recognizing the impact of historical and systemic racism on Black clients can help counselors build trust and provide more relevant support. By integrating ethical practices with cultural awareness, counselors can create a more inclusive and supportive environment that fosters recovery and resilience in all clients. I will discuss how Hip-hop culture significantly impacts addiction counseling in the Black community by both challenging and reinforcing stigma around substance use. On the positive side, many hip hop artists openly discuss their struggles with addiction and mental health, helping to normalize these issues and encourage individuals to seek help. This openness can reduce stigma and promote a supportive environment for those in recovery. Programs using music and lyrics as therapeutic tools can also faces challenges, as some aspects of hip hop culture may glorify substance use, potentially normalizing it and complicating efforts to address addiction. We will also discuss ways to effectively counsel African American clients in addiction treatment, it is crucial to build trust by acknowledging and addressing historical and systemic racism that may affect their perception of healthcare providers. Engaging community leaders and culturally relevant support systems can enhance the therapeutic process, while increasing the representation of African American counselors helps reduce cultural barriers. Early engagement strategies, such as showing genuine interest in the client’s background, are essential for building rapport. Overcoming mistrust involves transparency about treatment processes and respecting client autonomy. Utilizing culturally specific approaches, such as integrating spirituality and community-based support, and creating safe therapeutic spaces that consider cultural preferences, are vital. Collaborating with community healers and involving family members in the treatment process can provide holistic and culturally resonant care. Additionally, addressing socioeconomic factors and participating in cultural sensitivity training are important to support the unique needs of Black clients. We will discuss how clinicians of all cultures can effectively serve clients from the African American/Black culture, break down walls of stigma, foster open dialogue regarding challenges, paired with the eventual aim of making therapy “cool.”
June 27th, 2025
9:00 am – 11:00 am Training Presentation
LOCATION: Register to receive link information for this online training.
COST: FREE – There is no charge for this complimentary training.
REGISTRATION: Sign-up via Zoom.
Participants will be instructed on how to:
- Learn about the, perceived or realistic, impact of Hip Hop “culture” on substance use disorders, stigma, counseling, and healing, and how to incorporate into therapy.
- How spirituality, music and family play a part in healing and/or the perpetuation of substance use disorders in “black” communities.
- Utilizing culturally specific approaches to create safe therapeutic spaces that consider cultural preferences.
ABOUT THE PRESENTER
Kendria Harris, MA, LCAS, CCS
Assistant Clinical Director, Fellowship Hall
Kendria Harris, MA, LCAS, CCS received her bachelor’s degree from The University of Southern Mississippi, May 2004. She completed a master’s degree at The University of North Carolina Wilmington in 2009 and as a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS) and a Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS), Kendria has 23 years and a wide range of experience in the SA field ranging from prevention to treatment. She has served the community in substance abuse prevention efforts and community coalition involvement, where she worked closely with adolescents and teenagers in low income/high-risk communities. She has served in medication assisted treatment programs for adults, interventions for adolescents and teens, facilitated a SACOT/PHP program, serving pregnant and parenting women in a residential setting and in outpatient programs, including SAIOP group facilitation, clinical supervision, and team leadership. Kendria joined FH in 2017 as a primary counselor in their women’s program, served as family counselor for 5 years and after a brief period in full-time private practice, Kendria rejoined Fellowship Hall this year as their Assistant Clinical Director. As an adult child of an addict Kendria has dedicated her life’s work and passion to fighting the disease of addiction and works to encourage the whole family to heal from the effects of the disease.
NCSAPPB CREDITS
We have applied to the NC Substance Abuse Professional Practice Board (NCSAPPB) for approval of 2 Substance Abuse Specific credits. Completion of a short, post-workshop electronic survey will be required to receive your certificate.
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