Work

A Legacy of Sacred Spaces: Translating Contributions of Black Women in Psychology to Culturally Informed Clinical Practices at Predominantly White Institutions

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The revolutionary contributions of Black women psychologists have significantly deepened the science and practice of psychology. Translating this legacy into clinical practice honors their work and responds to the lived realities of Black women. This article operationalizes the concept of sacred spaces for adaptive coping, rooted in theories and concepts introduced to psychology by Black women. The authors present The Sacred Healing Circle, a curriculum-based model that demonstrates the translational utility of Black women’s scholarly contributions. This culturally responsive group therapy intervention is specifically led by Black women, created for Black women, and intentionally grounded in scholarship by Black women in psychology. Designed to support psychological wellness at predominantly White institutions (PWIs), the curriculum provides actionable strategies that center healing, resistance, and empowerment. By drawing from Black psychological theory, The Sacred Healing Circle affirms identity, fosters collective care, and creates space for culturally grounded clinical practice. This work continues a legacy of psychological activism and serves as a model for liberatory practices that center the needs and voices of Black women.

Source: Journal of Black Psychology

DOI: 10.1177/00957984251371513

Authors: Tanisha Pelham-Owusu, Shawntell N. Pace, Ecclesia Savage, Collette Chapman-Hilliard

Institutions: Vanderbilt University, Medical College of Wisconsin, University of Georgia

Language: English

Topic: Counseling Practices and Supervision

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Gender equality, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,900