ABSTRACT Background Black youth face significant mental health disparities pertaining to symptom severity, treatment access and fit of treatment for their unique sociocultural needs. Aims The purpose of this qualitative study was to learn from a treatment‐seeking group of Black youth about how they define healing spaces as it relates to their past mental health experiences. Materials and Methods Semi‐structured interviews centring contextual factors around healing were conducted with four Black youth who were in outpatient care for an anxiety and/or stress‐related disorder. Data were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Findings Participants highlighted that healing spaces should increase self‐awareness and perspective, as well as be validating spaces that counteract systemic injustice. Discussion We discuss ways for clinicians to support Black youth in healing , as they define it, with a focus on clinical training implications, including adaptability in applying manualised treatments and expanding one's intellectual preparation in Black studies. Conclusion Our findings highlight the need to allow rapport building within the therapeutic space, ensure treatment is rooted in one's context, and be well‐versed in the implications of systemic injustice and its impact on the lives of those served.
Hampton-Anderson et al. (Fri,) studied this question.
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