President's Message — Shawn LaRe’ Brinkley, MS, LMFT

The Gift, Priviledge, & Responsibilities of our Work

As we continue through these summer months, I want to focus on our dedication to the invaluable work we do as mental health therapists, I find myself reflecting on the privilege and profound responsibility that comes with our profession. Each day, we have the honor of being entrusted with the most intimate aspects of our clients' lives, guiding them through their struggles, celebrating their victories, and supporting their journey toward mental wellness. It is a privilege that we must recognize and never take for granted.

With this privilege comes great responsibility. Our role extends beyond the confines of our therapy rooms. We must approach the world with curious, open eyes, continuously educating ourselves and our clients about the myriad issues that impact mental health. In order to do this we must be aware of what is going on in the world around us. Often this requires us to look outside our immediate surroundings and examine the ugly truths that exist beyond our small communities. As therapists we must commit to looking past our own experiences and allow our minds to expand to include the experiences of others that are too horrible to imagine. During the month of July, we can turn our attention to the global fight against human trafficking, it is essential that we heighten our awareness and understanding of this pervasive issue.

World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, observed on July 30th, is a stark reminder of the atrocities that occur every day around the world. Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights, and its victims endure unimaginable suffering, often leading to long-term psychological trauma. As therapists, we have a unique role in recognizing and addressing the mental health needs of survivors of trafficking. Back in 2018, I presented on human sex trafficking as a member speaker. After my presentation many members came up to me and shared that they had no idea human sex trafficking existed right here in our communities. Some shared that this was the first time they recognized that this is not an “others” issue as I shared about young women and men from “good” families who found themselves victims of trafficking.

It is our charge to not only support these individuals in their healing journey but also to educate our communities about the signs of trafficking and the resources available for those affected. By fostering a broader understanding and awareness, we can contribute to the global effort to eradicate this heinous crime.

August acknowledges World Humanitarian Day. This is a day set aside to pay tribute to humanitarian workers killed and injured in the course of their work, and to honor all aid and health workers who continue to provide life-saving support and protection to people most in need. It may be a bit of a stretch, but I believe this in some ways includes us as therapists. Many of us work with trauma patients who may come into our offices very much in need of support that often results in them being able to save their own lives. What is not a stretch is that the work we do requires us to tap into our humanity every day and seek the parts of ourselves that holds space for others in their time of need and when many may not be able to find the best parts of their own humanness. Let’s be grateful for the gift of living our lives doing work in support of others.

Let us commit to approaching our work with renewed vigor and a steadfast commitment to justice and compassion. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Shawn LaRe’ Brinkley, MS, LMFT is a licensed Marriage Family Therapist, operating a group practice and a non-profit wellness center providing programs that affirm people of color as well as mental health therapy. She can be reached through her websites: www.livinglovedhealing.org and www.wjbcenter.com.