In my sixth episode of Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People, we talk about the relationship race has on domestic violence, mental health

According to Gerald Chambers, MFT (marriage and family therapist) race has a big impact on domestic violence, mental health and criminal justice. Besides having a successful private practice for individuals, couples and families seeking therapy and advice, he leads groups for men who have been convicted of domestic violence.

Most of his domestic violence groups are  composed of men of color who are court mandated to attend. He told me that very often white men who are more affluent hire attorneys who can either get them probation, have their charges dropped or pay for private therapy with lighter consequences.

Race also plays a role in who gets incarcerated someone’s behavior is a result of mental health issues and who gets sent to therapy. Black and brown people in particular are more likely to get incarcerated and be regarded as criminals  by the same judge who may send a white  person to therapy or to an institution  and be regarded as someone who needs help for mental health issues.

Gerald grew up around domestic violence and says he was abusive in the past. Having taken responsibility for his actions, and transformed the way he lives and engages with people, Gerald has been very effective as therapist and group leader.

As an African-American man, he understands  the root causes  and the issues that many of the men of color in his groups are dealing with as well as the targets of their violence.

You can listen to him address the relationship between race, domestic violence and mental health on this recent episode of Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People. 

Episode 6: Race, Mental Health, Domestic Violence, and the Criminal Justice System

Everyday Conversations on Race for Everyday People brings people together for cross race conversations about race. We want to eliminate fear of difference and help people  find new connections to build inclusive workplace, communities and beyond. Listen at www.raceconvo.com