An Evidence-Based Approach for Treating Stress and Trauma due to Racism

Abstract

Racism can be stressful or even traumatizing. Psychological unwellness emerges out of the confluence of historical, cultural, and individual experiences, and resulting syndromes may or may not fit into a DSM-5 PTSD diagnostic framework. Although racial stress and trauma are common presentations in therapy, few therapists have the resources or training to treat these issues. Based on the empirical evidence to date, this article describes the essential components of treatment for racial stress and trauma from a cognitive-behavioral perspective, called the Healing Racial Trauma protocol. Each technique is described with reference to the literature supporting its use for racial stress and trauma, along with guidance for how therapists might implement the method with clients. Also provided is information about sequencing techniques for optimal outcomes. Critical therapist prerequisites for engaging in this work are also discussed, with an emphasis on an anti-racist, empathy-centered approach throughout.