ABSTRACT
In this introductory chapter, the editors – an Asian American clinical psychologist and an Afro-Latina social worker – describe their inspiration, hopes, and goals for this book. The book is divided into three parts organized around the choice points and action steps involved in developing a culturally affirming and transformative career in mental health. Part I (Finding and Owning Your Voice) examines the process of shedding internalized narratives of inferiority and non-belonging, and owning your authentic voice. Part II (Taking a Leap) delves into career decision points where we choose or create a path or combination of paths (e.g., academia, clinical practice, training and consulting, organizational leadership), and redefine the boundaries to better reflect our values and commitments. Finally, in Part III (Leading for Change and Impact), we explore strategies for transitioning to positions of leadership and influence, and leveraging one’s power across diverse institutions including the media, higher education, clinical settings, government, and the non-profit sector.
