Barry University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program proudly celebrates the recent publication co-authored by Makayla Ivey, M.S. student in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and an Associate Director, Center for Academic Success and Advising & Pre-Nursing Program in the Counselors for Social Justice Newsletter.

Along with Dr. Philippa Chin, Assistant Professor and Program Director, their article “Finding Support as a Black Counselor-in-Training,” explores the realities of environmental stress experienced by Black counselors-in-training (BCITs) and Black Counselor Educators (BCEs) as they navigate predominantly non-Black academic spaces.

Through an authentic dialogue between student and educator, Ivey and Chin shed light on how systemic inequities, microaggressions, and institutional neglect can create psychological strain, and how community, mentorship, and culturally affirming spaces foster resilience, belonging, and leadership.

Their work highlights the importance of intentional diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within counselor education, advocating for transformative, community-based approaches, such as justice circles and affinity groups, to empower both Black counseling students and Black educators.

This publication also reflects the broader mission of Barry University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program, which is dedicated to preparing culturally competent counselors who are equipped to address mental health needs across diverse communities, promote social justice, and enact meaningful change in the field.

To read the full article, click here.