Episode 94: The Dope Black Therapist: Creative Representation in Therapy [featuring Blaise Harris]

Ever heard someone say they just "don't do therapy?" Even though the profession has gained a better reputation and become more inclusive, there are still many communities that are unrepresented and can have a harder time opening up to someone who probably "isn't going to get it." That's where finding your niche and ways to connect with and serve that community plays a huge role in how you show up as a therapist, whether that's by having your clients do boxing in session or just normalizing the shit that others can't handle. If you are curious about what creative representation can look like and how to tailor therapy to clients, as well as the struggles that the therapist may face when making custom therapy available to clients, this episode is for you. In this episode, I talk with Blaise Harris, therapist, private practice owner, author, and host of the "Dope Black Therapist" podcast, about why he went into private practice, what struggles he faced, and how his experience as a black man and retired firefighter impacts the way he does therapy and shows up for his clients. Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode: Understand the impact of unaddressed personal issues in professions that demand "leaving it at the door." Learn how to use creativity to customize and create safe spaces to talk openly, support one another, and break the stigma surrounding mental health. Hear Blaise's personal story of going from firefighter to therapist and how he shows up for his clients in unique ways while still maintaining self-care. "Therapy that works" will look different for everyone, and stepping up to create that custom therapeutic environment to match each person's needs can result in criticism and pushback when breaking the norm and challenging the stereotypical therapist image. Despite what grad school teaches, there are many ways to be an ethical and effective therapist who caters to the unique healing processes of clients. More about Blaise: Blaise Harris is a licensed mental health counselor and former firefighter with over 14 years of service as a first responder and is the founder and owner of G Squared Consulting and Counseling Services. Blaise has a passion for helping others and hopes to end the stigma surrounding mental health amongst first responders and in the community. Blaise hosts a biweekly podcast called, The Dope Black Therapist, where he shares practices, tools, and coping mechanisms, as well as addresses issues regarding mental health. Blaise's Website: thedopeblacktherapist.com ------------------------------------------------------- 🎙️ Listen to more episodes of the All Things Private Practice Podcast here: www.allthingspractice.com/all-things-private-practice-podcast 🎙️Spotify: atppod.com/spotify 🎙️Apple Podcasts: atppod.com/apple 🎙️Google Podcasts: atppod.com/google 🗨️ Join the All Things Private Practice FB Community:  www.facebook.com/groups/privatepracticebuilding ---------------------------- Mentioned in this episode: A Thanks to Our Sponsor, The Receptionist for iPad! Visit the website for The Receptionist for iPad here!