The National Association of Black Counselors (NABC) strongly condemns H.R. 3518, legislation that would prohibit federal funding for graduate medical schools maintaining diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies. [Full bill text available at: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3518/text]

This bill represents a dangerous regression in our nation's commitment to health equity and exposes the fragile nature of institutional commitments to racial justice.

The Broken Promise of Equity

The rapid dismantling of DEI initiatives across sectors reveals an uncomfortable truth: these programs were maintained only when required, not because they were valued. We have witnessed:

• DEI offices closing following Supreme Court rulings

• Minority recruitment programs dissolving when public pressure eased

• Support services for marginalized students quietly defunded

This pattern proves what communities of color have long known - when institutions genuinely value something, they fight to preserve it. The disappearance of these initiatives demonstrates they were implemented for compliance rather than conviction.

The Grave Consequences of H.R. 3518

This legislation would:

1. Threaten Healthcare Equity by reducing the pipeline of diverse physicians, despite overwhelming evidence that representation improves patient outcomes in marginalized communities

2. Disproportionately Harm HBCUs that train nearly half of Black doctors while already operating with limited resources

3. Worsen Health Disparities by decreasing culturally competent care for communities facing systemic healthcare neglect

4. Institutionalize Discrimination by punishing schools committed to inclusive learning environments

The Exploitation of Black Goodwill

As Black professionals, we have invested our time, talent, and trust in systems that consistently demonstrate their priorities:

• Our inclusion serves institutional optics rather than our empowerment

• Action comes only when reputations are at stake

• Diversity measures often center majority comfort over minority survival

Our Demands

The NABC calls for:

1. Immediate withdrawal of H.R. 3518

2. Protection of federal funding for HBCU medical programs

3. Accountability measures for institutions abandoning equity commitments

4. Centering of Black health outcomes in medical education policy

The Path Forward

True equity requires more than performative gestures - it demands sustained commitment when inconvenient and unobserved. The counseling community recognizes this legislation as part of a broader retreat from racial justice, and we will mobilize accordingly.

Take Action

1. Contact your congressional representatives

2. Support HBCU medical programs

3. Join NABC's advocacy efforts

#NABC #OpposeHR3518 #ProtectHBCUs #HealthEquityNow

May 2025

The National Association of Black Counselors (NABC) vehemently opposes The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R. 1) and its devastating cuts to Medicaid and Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies. These changes threaten mental health access for millions of Black Americans and violate our ethical mandate to advocate for equitable care.

The National Association of Black Counselors (NABC) condemns H.R. 1's Medicaid work requirements and ACA subsidy cuts, which threaten mental health access for Black communities. Verified data confirms:

Documented Impacts

1. 8 Million Medicaid Losses

   • Congressional Budget Office projects 8 million will lose coverage due to:

     • Administrative burdens of 80-hour monthly work requirements (CBO, 2024)

     • Coverage gaps mirroring Arkansas’ 18,000+ losses under similar policies (KFF, 2024)

2. 6 Million ACA Enrollees Priced Out

   • Terminating enhanced subsidies will spike premiums by 82% for low-income households (KFF, 2024)

   • Black Americans (34% of ACA enrollees) disproportionately affected (CMS, 2024)

Ethical Violations

These policies conflict with:

• ACA Code of Ethics (Section A.7): Prohibits policies that exacerbate care disparities

• NBCC Multicultural Guidelines: Require advocacy against systemic barriers

NABC’s Position

1. Reject H.R. 1 and all Medicaid work requirements

2. Permanently extend ACA subsidies to prevent coverage losses

3. Invest in culturally responsive safety nets

Next Steps

For advocacy instructions, refer to the May 30, 2025 email sent to all NABC members.

Endorsed by:

NABC Executive Committee
NABC Advocacy and Legislative Committee

As we honor Mental Health Awareness Month this May, we are confronted with a deeply troubling development: the Trump administration has announced the termination of $1 billion in federal grants dedicated to school mental health services. These funds, established under the 2022 Bipartisan Safer Communities Act in response to the Uvalde school shooting, were instrumental in hiring school counselors, psychologists, and social workers nationwide.

The Department of Education justified this decision by alleging that the grants violated federal civil rights laws, claiming they were misused to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. However, many educators and mental health professionals argue that these funds were crucial for addressing the escalating mental health crisis among students, particularly in underserved communities.

Implications for the Black Community

The Black community stands to be disproportionately affected by these cuts. Historically, Black students have faced systemic barriers to accessing quality mental health care. The now-defunded grants had begun to bridge this gap by facilitating the recruitment of culturally competent mental health professionals in schools serving predominantly Black populations. Eliminating this funding risks widening existing disparities, leaving Black students without essential support systems during a time when mental health challenges are on the rise.

Challenges for Black Mental Health Practitioners

These cuts represent a significant setback for Black mental health practitioners. The grants provided opportunities for employment, training, and the implementation of programs tailored to the unique needs of Black students. With the withdrawal of federal support, many practitioners may find it challenging to sustain their roles in educational settings, thereby reducing the availability of culturally responsive care for Black youth.

A Call to Action

The National Association of Black Counselors urges policymakers, educators, and community leaders to recognize the critical importance of school-based mental health services. We advocate for the restoration of funding to ensure that all students, regardless of race or socioeconomic status, have access to the mental health support they need. As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, let us reaffirm our commitment to equity and the well-being of our youth by opposing measures that undermine these essential services.

For more information on the grant termination, please refer to the NPR article: Trump administration stops grant funding for school mental health.

The National Association of Black Counselors (NABC) expresses deep concern over the recent executive orders signed by President Donald Trump, which aim to expand the powers of local law enforcement and intensify immigration enforcement efforts. These policies, including the expansion of 287(g) agreements and increased collaboration between local police and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), have significant psychological implications for Black communities and other marginalized groups.​

Psychological Implications for Our Communities

The amplification of law enforcement powers and aggressive immigration policies contribute to heightened anxiety, fear, and trauma among our clients. The increased presence of law enforcement in communities, particularly those of color, can lead to:​

• Chronic Stress and Anxiety: The constant threat of surveillance and potential detainment fosters a pervasive sense of insecurity.​

• Intergenerational Trauma: Families, especially those with mixed immigration statuses, experience compounded stress, affecting both children and adults.​

• Erosion of Trust: The collaboration between local police and federal immigration authorities undermines trust in institutions meant to protect and serve, deterring individuals from seeking necessary services or reporting crimes.​

Impact on Mental Health Services

These policies not only affect our clients but also place additional burdens on mental health professionals:​

• Increased Caseloads: As communities grapple with the psychological toll of these policies, counselors may see a rise in clients experiencing trauma-related symptoms.​

• Compassion Fatigue: Continuous exposure to clients' trauma can lead to emotional exhaustion and decreased empathy among clinicians.​

Recommendations for Supporting Clients

To mitigate these impacts, NABC recommends the following strategies:

1. Trauma-Informed Care: Implement practices that recognize and respond to the effects of all types of trauma, ensuring a safe environment for clients.​

2. Community Engagement: Collaborate with local organizations to provide resources and support networks for affected individuals.​

3. Advocacy: Engage in policy advocacy to challenge and change harmful policies affecting mental health and community well-being.​

Self-Care Strategies for Clinicians

To address and prevent compassion fatigue, mental health professionals should:

• Set Boundaries: Establish clear limits between work and personal life to prevent burnout.​

• Seek Support: Engage in peer supervision or support groups to share experiences and coping strategies.​

• Prioritize Well-being: Incorporate regular self-care activities, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies, into daily routines.​

• Continuous Education: Stay informed about best practices in trauma-informed care and self-care techniques.​

Conclusion

NABC remains committed to supporting both our communities and mental health professionals during these challenging times. By fostering resilience, advocating for equitable policies, and prioritizing self-care, we can navigate the psychological impacts of these federal policies together.​

April 2025

The National Association of Black Counselors (NABC) strongly condemns President Donald J. Trump's recent executive order, which eliminated disparate-impact liability across federal agencies. This order represents a dangerous rollback of civil rights protections and undermines decades of progress toward racial equity, justice, and accountability in American society.

Disparate-impact liability is a critical legal tool that recognizes how policies and practices, though neutral in language, can result in harmful, discriminatory outcomes for marginalized communities. It has been instrumental in addressing inequality in education, housing, employment, and healthcare. To eliminate this protection is to ignore the reality of systemic discrimination and silence the data that reveal its continued presence.

This executive order does not "restore equality." It rebrands inequity. It does not advance "merit-based" opportunity it denies the structural imbalances that continue to disadvantage Black Americans and other historically excluded groups. Suggesting that fairness can be achieved without acknowledging and addressing outcomes is a fundamental misunderstanding of civil rights law and the purpose of social justice advocacy.

Let us be clear: Equity is not about giving advantages to some; it’s about removing barriers for all. This order seeks to erase those barriers from public view, not from public life. It enables institutions to perpetuate harm without accountability and shifts the burden of proof onto those already bearing the weight of inequality.

As Black mental health professionals, we see the psychological toll of systemic injustice every day. We know that structural racism is not always overt. It is often embedded in the very systems this executive order now seeks to shield from scrutiny.

We call on lawmakers, educators, clinicians, and allies to resist this regressive action and to stand firm in protecting the mechanisms that hold our nation to its promise of equal justice under the law.

NABC will not be silent. We remain committed to equity, accountability, and truth.

Signed,

Dr. M. Nickleson (Dr. Nick) Battle, Jr., LPC (DC/VA), LCPC (MD), CCTP, CCAPT, BC-TMH
President, National Association of Black Counselors (NABC)

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, NABC is proud to shine a spotlight on the invaluable contributions of Black women in the field of counseling. Their resilience, wisdom, and dedication have not only shaped the profession but have also paved the way for healing, empowerment, and social change in communities across the globe.

Black women have long been at the forefront of mental health advocacy, breaking barriers and challenging systemic inequities in the counseling profession. From pioneering research to providing culturally competent care, Black women counselors have played a critical role in addressing the unique mental health needs of marginalized communities. Their work has been instrumental in dismantling stigmas, fostering resilience, and promoting holistic well-being.

We honor figures like Dr. Mamie Phipps Clark, whose groundbreaking work on racial identity and child development laid the foundation for understanding the psychological impact of segregation. Her research was instrumental in the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case, proving that systemic racism harms mental health.

We also celebrate modern-day leaders like Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, founder of Therapy for Black Girls, who has created a platform to destigmatize mental health care and make therapy accessible for Black women and girls. Her work reminds us of the power of representation and the importance of culturally competent care.

At NABC, we recognize that Black women counselors often navigate dual challenges addressing the mental health needs of their clients while confronting systemic racism and sexism within the profession. Despite these obstacles, they continue to lead with compassion, strength, and an unwavering commitment to justice.

As we reflect on the legacy of Black women in counseling, we are reminded of the importance of representation, mentorship, and advocacy. Their stories remind us that counseling is not just a profession it’s a calling to uplift, empower, and transform lives.

This Women’s History Month, let us celebrate the Black women who have shaped the counseling profession and continue to inspire us to create a more inclusive and equitable future. Join NABC in honoring their contributions and amplifying their voices as we work together to advance mental health for all.

#WomensHistoryMonth #BlackWomenInCounseling #NABC #MentalHealthEquity #RepresentationMatters

Initiatives aimed at promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) were designed to level the playing field and provide opportunities for historically underrepresented groups. However, when we step back and look at the data, white women were the group that profited the most. They gained access to educational and employment opportunities at an unprecedented rate. Although white women benefited the most in terms of numbers, Black communities were significantly more affected by DEI.

This is because creating an opportunity for an equally, if not more, deserving and qualified Black person changed more than just one life, but paved the way for generations to come. These jobs were revolutionary for Black professionals, changing family paths and ending cycles of structural marginalization. They weren't merely stepping stones to something else. Whole family legacies could be changed by a single leadership opportunity, a single acceptance letter, or a single promotion.

The truth is, while white women benefitted from DEI, their economic and social positioning meant that, for many, these opportunities were optional rather than essential. Many white women were not and still do not serve as their families' main breadwinners. In the past, many of them either used these jobs as leverage for even more profitable possibilities or worked only until they were married to a man who could adequately provide for them and their family. Their access to power was and still still is largely tied to white men, and their political and economic interests reflect that reality.

Voting trends are where this alignment is most noticeable. White women have often voted against policies that would have improved racial justice in favor of maintaining a system that places a higher priority on their relationship with white male authority. Where we view this as voting against their best interests, it is not. They cast their votes against our shared interests, not against their own.

Conversely, Black people have continuously put in the most effort and received the fewest benefits. We have fought for justice, equity, and progress, only for our so-called “allies” to reap the primary benefits. I don't want to imply that all white women or white people for that matter are bad, but we need to be careful and selective about who we call an ally. Being an ally is has to be more than simply reaping the rewards of the fight; it means actively destroying the structures that sustain injustice. And this is not to speak to their motives and intentions, as many of these women would argue that they have good intentions. But just because someone has good intentions, does not guarantee positive outcomes. Even the most well intentioned actions can lead to harm. Remember, that the road to destruction is often paved with good intentions.

Black Communities' Mental Health Toll

Black communities' mental health is significantly impacted by the never-ending cycle of struggling for progress only to have its advantages dispersed or reversed. Stress, worry, and disappointment are brought on by the psychological weight of systematic injustices as well as the weariness of navigating a society that undervalues Black knowledge and labor.

This emotional and mental stress shows up in a number of ways:

• Racial battle fatigue, the exhaustion from constantly experiencing and witnessing racism, discrimination, and microaggressions.
• Imposter syndrome, where Black professionals may feel they have to prove themselves constantly, despite being equally or more qualified than their white counterparts.
• Generational trauma, as the fight for equity is not new but rather a continuation of centuries-long struggles that weigh heavily on Black families.
• Hopelessness and burnout, as many Black professionals feel they must work twice as hard for half the recognition, leading to emotional and physical exhaustion.

Black Counselors' Contribution to Empowerment and Healing

Black mental health providers are essential in assisting people and communities in processing, recovering, and planning in the face of these obstacles. In addition to acknowledging the realities of systemic oppression, Black counselors offer culturally competent care that gives clients the skills they need to deal with and overcome these stressors.

Black counselors assist by: 

• Establishing judgment-free environments where Black clients can freely communicate their sorrow, disappointments, and anxieties.
• Offering therapeutic approaches to treat mental health issues linked to stress and racial trauma.
• Promoting social and workplace reforms that shield Black workers from racial injustice and discrimination.
• Giving Black people coping mechanisms that validate their experiences and foster resilience.
• To combat emotions of loneliness and hopelessness, promote self-care, community healing, and group efforts.

Going Ahead

The repercussions are evident when we observe the rollback of DEI efforts. Our "progress" was never as safe as we believed. Black people will be the ones who suffer the most from this retreat, even as the same white women who previously benefited from workplace diversity initiatives and affirmative action may be forced back into traditional positions. With policies shifting to favor nationalism and xenophobia, white women may be relegated to the kitchen and the bedroom once more, but Black people? We run the danger of being forced back into the fields.

This moment requires vigilance. Neither romanticizing allyship nor assuming that shared marginalization equates to shared struggle are acceptable. Our ability to clearly and strategically navigate these shifting waves has always been essential to our existence. As we proceed, we must make sure that our communities are safeguarded, that our mental health is given first priority, and that the next battle for equity focuses on those who need it the most, not simply those who stand to gain the most.

As we observe Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, we are reminded of Dr. King’s unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the empowerment of Black communities. His dream of a society where all individuals thrive in unity and dignity resonates deeply with our mission as counselors. At  NABC we recognize the critical role we play in supporting the stability and mental well-being of the ourcommunity—work that aligns with the legacy of advocacy and transformation championed by Dr. King.

The Legacy of Dr. King: Justice and Empowerment

Dr. King’s vision extended beyond civil rights to encompass the economic, emotional, and spiritual health of the community. He understood that true freedom includes access to the resources and support needed for individuals to thrive. Today, as counselors, we are uniquely positioned to carry this legacy forward, ensuring that our communities have access to culturally competent mental health care that fosters healing, growth, and resilience.

Counseling: A Pillar of Community Stability

Mental health counseling is more than a profession; it is a tool for empowerment. In our work, we address systemic inequities, advocate for marginalized voices, and provide the support necessary to build strong, stable communities.

• Reducing Stigma: Mental health challenges often carry stigma, particularly in our communities. Counselors serve as educators and advocates, normalizing conversations about mental health and encouraging individuals to seek help without shame.
• Healing Generational Trauma: Dr. King spoke of the "chains of discrimination," and we see the lingering effects of these chains in the form of generational trauma. Counselors help individuals and families break these cycles, fostering healing and resilience.
• Advocating for Equity: We continue the fight for justice by advocating for equitable access to mental health resources, addressing disparities that disproportionately impact our communities.

Our Commitment as Counselors

As members of NABC, we are called to action by Dr. King’s enduring message. Our commitment to our community is reflected in our initiatives to expand access to mental health care, provide culturally competent training, and advocate for systemic change. We understand that mental health is foundational to personal success, family stability, and community well-being.

How We Can Honor Dr. King’s Legacy Today

1. Engage in Service: Volunteer your time to provide mental health education in schools, churches, and community centers.
2. Advocate for Justice: Use your platform to call for policies that address mental health disparities and support underserved populations.
3. Foster Unity: Promote understanding and collaboration among community members, just as Dr. King envisioned.
4. Care for Yourself and Others: Counselors must prioritize their own mental health to continue serving others effectively.

A Shared Dream for a Better Future

Dr. King once said, "Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?'" As counselors, our answer is clear: we are here to listen, to guide, to advocate, and to heal. On this Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to strengthening the Black community, ensuring that Dr. King’s dream lives on in the lives we touch and the progress we make together.

Healing means something different to everyone, and the process can look vastly different depending on the person. However, far too often, we are in a hurry to "heal" or move past situations that have deeply hurt us, as if we are following some unspoken timeline. The reality is that healing is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Rushing through it—especially based on someone else's definition of what healing should look like—can be more detrimental than the initial pain itself. True healing requires that we allow ourselves the freedom to feel, to reflect, and to process the emotions we experience.

The Importance of Allowing Yourself to Feel

In a society that often celebrates "moving on" or "getting over it," there can be immense pressure to speed through the healing process. We’re told that time heals all wounds, but in reality, time alone isn’t enough. Healing requires introspection, emotional acknowledgment, and processing. Yet many of us are quick to stifle our emotions, forcing ourselves to be “okay” before we’ve truly addressed the pain. This approach only leads to suppressed emotions resurfacing later in unhealthy ways, such as through anxiety, depression, or even physical ailments.

Allowing yourself to feel whatever you feel—whether it’s anger, sadness, confusion, or grief—is a critical part of the healing journey. It’s in this space of acceptance where real growth can occur. Healing doesn't mean constantly feeling "better"; it means honoring the process, no matter how long it takes. The more we embrace our emotions, rather than push them away, the more we allow ourselves to heal at our own pace.

The Psychological Impact of Rushing to Heal

When we rush through the healing process, the psychological consequences can be profound. The pressure to be "okay" or to return to normal often leads to unresolved emotional trauma, which can fester beneath the surface. This can manifest as chronic stress, difficulty maintaining relationships, or persistent feelings of inadequacy. Trying to meet the expectations of others—or even your own preconceived notions of how healing should look—can be damaging. You might end up feeling frustrated with yourself for not healing "fast enough" or for not conforming to someone else's version of recovery.

Furthermore, rushing the healing process can lead to a superficial sense of closure. You may appear to be functioning well on the outside, but internally, the emotional scars remain unaddressed. This false sense of healing can create a disconnect between how you feel and how you present yourself to the world, leading to emotional exhaustion, burnout, and even identity confusion.

Healing Looks Different for Everyone

Healing is deeply personal, and it doesn't follow a linear path. For some, healing may involve taking a step back from their routine to process their emotions. For others, it might mean engaging in creative outlets, seeking therapy, or focusing on self-care practices. Some might find comfort in reconnecting with their spirituality or leaning on their support system. Whatever the method, it is crucial to remember that there is no "right" way to heal.

What works for one person may not work for another, and that’s okay. The danger lies in comparing your healing journey to someone else’s, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy or frustration. Healing isn’t about meeting certain milestones; it’s about finding what brings you peace and helps you move forward in a way that feels right for you.

The Role of Counselors as Partners in the Healing Journey

As counselors we play a pivotal role in helping individuals navigate their healing journey. We act as partners, offering guidance and support without imposing their own expectations or timelines. Our role is not to tell you how to heal but to help you discover your path toward healing. By creating a safe and non-judgmental space, we allow individuals to explore their emotions, confront their pain, and work through it at their own pace.

We can also provide valuable tools and techniques tailored to each person’s needs, whether that involves cognitive-behavioral strategies, mindfulness practices, or simply holding space for the individual to express their feelings. As clinicians we recognize healing is not a destination but a journey, and we are there to walk alongside our clients, helping them process each step of the way.

Embrace Your Healing Journey

The journey to healing is uniquely yours, and it should never be rushed to fit someone else’s timeline or expectations. You deserve the time and space to heal in a way that honors your experience, your emotions, and your needs. Whether it takes weeks, months, or even years, your healing is valid and should be approached with patience and compassion.

Remember, healing isn't about how quickly you can move on; it's about how fully you can embrace the process. And with the right support, including from counselors who act as compassionate partners, you can take the time you need to heal on your own terms.

July marks a significant month for the disability community as we celebrate Disability Pride Month. This annual observance is dedicated to honoring the history, achievements, experiences, and struggles of people with disabilities. It also serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality and inclusion for all.

The Significance of Disability Pride Month

Disability Pride Month commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) into law on July 26, 1990. This landmark legislation was a monumental step forward in the fight for civil rights and equality for people with disabilities. The ADA prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in various areas of public life, including:

• Employment: Ensuring fair treatment and equal opportunities in the workplace.
• Housing: Protecting the right to accessible and non-discriminatory housing.
• Transportation: Making transportation systems more accessible and inclusive.
• Access to Government Programs and Services: Ensuring that public programs and services are accessible to all.

Celebrating Achievements and Contributions

Disability Pride Month is not only about recognizing the past but also about celebrating the present and future contributions of the disability community. People with disabilities have enriched our society in countless ways, contributing to diverse fields such as art, science, technology, sports, and advocacy.

Throughout this month, we honor the resilience and strength of individuals with disabilities. We acknowledge their unique identities and cultures and celebrate their vital role in shaping a more inclusive world.

Reflecting on History and Ongoing Struggles

While we celebrate the progress made since the ADA's enactment, it's essential to recognize the ongoing challenges faced by people with disabilities. Discrimination, lack of accessibility, and societal stigmas still exist, and the fight for full inclusion and equality continues.

Disability Pride Month serves as a reminder of the importance of advocating for disability rights and creating a society that values and respects all its members. It is a time for reflection, education, and action.

Join Us in Celebrating Disability Pride Month

At NABC, we are committed to supporting and uplifting the disability community. We believe in fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. Join us this month in celebrating Disability Pride Month by:

• Learning about the ADA: Understanding the history and impact of this crucial legislation.
• Supporting Disability Rights: Advocating for policies and practices that promote accessibility and inclusion.
• Celebrating Diversity: Acknowledging and honoring the unique contributions of people with disabilities.

Together, we can create a world that embraces diversity and champions the rights and dignity of all individuals.

Happy Disability Pride Month!

#DisabilityPrideMonth #ADA #Inclusion #Accessibility #CelebrateDiversity