Recommendations for Creating and Teaching a Graduate Psychology Course Exclusively for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color Students

Abstract

Introduction Although the development of graduate psychology trainees’ multicultural competence is established to be a necessity, current training implicitly and explicitly centers White clinicians. Statement of the Problem This orientation leads to inadequate opportunities for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) trainees to access mentoring, learning, and support. Literature Review We review the focus in graduate psychology training centered on White clinicians and the need to develop actively anti-racist training specifically suited to BIPOC clinicians. We discuss the principles of decolonization and collective liberation that can underlie such training. Teaching implications A course called In the Center (ITC) was exclusively offered to BIPOC students to prioritize their needs and strengths. Based on ITC, we recommend instructors consider institutional context, ground teaching practices in values, utilize co-teaching, target multiple competencies, and address classroom racial dynamics to build greater community and solidarity among BIPOC students. Conclusion This article discusses considerations for equitable, anti-racist training for BIPOC graduate psychology students built upon principles of decolonization and collective liberation.