Social Justice Initiative

Mental Health: It’s Everyone Story

Bloomental Psychology is committed to supporting the mental growth and achievements of every individual, especially in the face of societal misconceptions that depict mental health challenges as insurmountable. These misunderstandings hold particular weight within BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities, where historical practices have often sidelined discussions about mental health.

Dr. Tama Lane stands firmly on a profound truth: equity and justice are inseparable. This conviction is vividly reflected in her robust support for decolonizing therapeutic methods, as evidenced in her practice and various initiatives.

She champions a space where client vulnerabilities aren’t muted but acknowledged, understood, and embraced. Central to her mission is the empowerment of communities of color, urging them to prioritize their mental well-being. Treating her clients with utmost reverence, Dr. Tama feels a resounding duty, both personally and professionally, to guide them through their healing odysseys. She holds a steadfast belief that transforming the discourse surrounding mental health is key to dismantling pervasive mental health stigmas.

However, when individuals confront and voice their feelings, they’re often met with stigmatizing labels —words that restrict and distort. These cultural norms not only put mental health at risk but also diminish its inherent significance. Each person’s identity emerges from the stories they’ve assimilated over their life’s span. Yet, stories can evolve, and with reflection and assistance, they can find a new narrative.

The interplay between mental health care and communities often besieged by adversities is intricate, shadowed by a history of hesitance towards self-expression. Historically, revealing mental health challenges or expressing vulnerability often had grave implications, sometimes even amounting to life-or-death situations. Factors such as cultural heritage, ancestral narratives, past oppressions, and prevailing societal standards profoundly shape an individual’s emotional makeup. For many in marginalized groups, there exists an ingrained ethos to suppress anguish and mute their voices. Phrases like “keep family matters within” or “just move past it” have deepened the fallacy that emotional pain indicates frailty, and that such frailty is a cause for disgrace.

Navigating Our Narratives: Strength in Every Word

At Bloomental, we understand that true progress in mental health requires creating a haven where individuals, especially those from BIPOC communities, can courageously reflect upon and re-envision their narratives. Acknowledging experiences of vulnerability isn’t a concession of weakness, but a testament to strength. Discussing life events that challenge, and sometimes disrupt our mental health journey, is not just resilience; it’s a superpower.

In a profession where a mere 4% of doctoral-level psychologists are Black in America, I’ve observed firsthand the gaps in cultural competence and genuine understanding. It’s a realm where awareness, attitude, and skills can often fall short, affecting quality care across diverse ethnic, racial, sexual orientation, QUILTBAG, religious, gender, and socio-economic groups.

At Bloomental, our approach is distinctively collaborative. We believe in nurturing collective growth and embracing each individual’s unique journey. As you tread the path toward rediscovering your core-self, we stand by you, empowering every stride. It’s about liberation from labels, emancipation from misconceptions, and gaining true autonomy in envisioning a hopeful and purpose-filled future.