The Residual Effects of Slavery: Clinical Implications for Training and Practice [Online]

Intergenerational approaches to family therapy examine generational influences on present-day relational functioning, but most training programs have not broadly examined the influence of historically traumatic events on clients.

This workshop will conceptualize the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, as a historical trauma, and explore its clinical implications. A theoretical model of the residual effects of slavery that helps inform clinical training will be presented. and therapeutic interventions. Small-group discussions, videotapes, case vignettes and experiential exercises will be used to encourage participants to examine the intersection of the residual effects of slavery with self-of-the-therapist themes. Participants will also be presented with suggested interventions for attending to residual effects of slavery within their clinical practice. This workshop will be facilitated in the spirit of Sankofa that encourages us to “go back and get what was taken.”

Learning Objectives:

• Examine the residual effects of slavery with self-of-the-therapist themes
• Explore the influence that the residual effects of slavery have had on descendants of enslaved Africans and those who are not
• Learn suggested interventions for addressing the residual effects of slavery within clinical practice

Presenter:

Erica J. Wilkins, PhD., LMFT, is a professor and the incoming program director for the Masters of Couple and Family Therapy Program at Jefferson University. Her research explores the ways in which the residuals of slavery affect African American individuals, couples and families. She is currently an invited member of a UNESCO task force focused on healing the wounds of slavery. Dr. Wilkins has presented at local, national, and international conferences. Clinically, she assists clients in coping with the residual effects of slavery, recovery from various historical traumas, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse and addiction, culturally competent services, and contextual therapy. Her private practice is available virtually.