The lived experiences of non-licensed African American pastors providing counseling for
race-related mental health issues are deeply rooted in the historical and cultural context of
African American communities. For generations, the church has been a cornerstone institution,
offering spiritual guidance and social, emotional, and psychological support (Lincoln & Mamiya,
1990). As mental health awareness grows, African American pastors are increasingly called upon
to address mental health needs, particularly those related to race, trauma, and systemic
oppression. However, while previous studies have explored the role of religious leaders in
promoting mental health (Avent, 2016; Lowe & Miller, 2017), limited research focuses
specifically on the experiences of African American pastors providing non-licensed counseling
for race-related mental health issues. This significant gap overlooks the unique pressures and
challenges these pastors face in navigating dual roles as spiritual leaders and informal mental
health counselors.
 

During recent periods of heightened racial tension—such as the COVID-19 pandemic
and incidents of police brutality—African American pastors have become critical sources of
support. Many have taken on the role of informal counselors without formal mental health
training, assisting parishioners through emotionally charged and traumatic experiences. This
study seeks to fill the gap in the literature by examining how these pastors address race-related
mental health challenges, the tools they employ, and the emotional toll of their work.
Understanding their experiences will provide valuable insights into how faith-based and
professional mental health services can collaborate to support African American communities
more effectively.






This study employs the frameworks of cultural competency and pastoral counseling
theory to explore how African American pastors provide non-licensed counseling for race-
related mental health issues. These frameworks help contextualize the pastors & dual roles as
spiritual leaders and informal counselors, operating at the intersection of faith, race, and mental
health within communities that have long faced systemic Racism and marginalization.





Cultural Competency


Cultural competency is understanding, communicating with, and effectively engaging
people from diverse cultural backgrounds (Sue, 2006). It requires not only awareness of cultural
differences but also sensitivity to the historical and social contexts that shape the experiences of
individuals from marginalized communities (Sue, 2006). In this study, African American pastors
serve as cultural mediators, bridging the spiritual and mental health needs of their congregants
while addressing the psychological effects of systemic Racism (Harris, 2024). Their lived
experience with Racism allows them to offer culturally relevant support, fostering trust among
parishioners who may otherwise avoid formal mental health services (Harris, 2024).


Cultural competency within this context is not static; it evolves as pastors respond to
changing community needs and social conditions. Like mental health professionals, pastors
engage in what Sue (2006) describes as "cultural bridging," helping individuals connect personal
experiences of Racism to broader societal structures. However, unlike licensed counselors, these
pastors rely primarily on spiritual resources, which limits their ability to address more severe
psychological disorders. This distinction underscores the need for collaborative care models that
integrate pastoral and professional mental health services (Harris, 2024).






Pastoral Counseling Theory


Pastoral counseling theory combines theological principles with psychological insights,
recognizing that pastors often provide initial emotional support to individuals in distress
(McMinn & Campbell, 2007). While pastors may lack the credentials of licensed mental health
professionals, their role is significant in African American communities where faith and
spirituality are essential coping mechanisms (Bethea-Covington, 2024). Pastors employ tools
such as scripture, prayer, and religious rituals to address mental health concerns, aligning their
support with the spiritual beliefs of their congregants. However, pastoral competency—the
ability to provide effective spiritual care while recognizing the limits of one's expertise—is
crucial in ensuring appropriate mental health interventions (Bethea-Covington, 2024).



To better position the findings within the broader field of counselor education, this study
also draws on counselor competency frameworks outlined by the Council for Accreditation of
Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). According to CACREP standards,
professional counselors must demonstrate competencies in core areas such as ethical practice,
multicultural competence, assessment, and intervention (CACREP, 2016). These standards
highlight a crucial distinction between the roles of pastors and licensed counselors: while pastors
offer informal, faith-based support, licensed counselors are trained to address complex
psychological disorders through evidence-based interventions.


This study emphasizes that the lack of formal counseling training among non-licensed
pastors creates limitations in addressing severe mental health issues. Pastors interviewed in this
study often recognized when their spiritual guidance was insufficient and expressed a need for
referral networks with licensed counselors. By referencing CACREP standards, the findings
highlight the importance of equipping counselors-in-training with skills to collaborate effectively
with faith-based leaders. Such collaboration ensures individuals receive culturally aligned
spiritual care and professional mental health support.







The intersection of Cultural and Pastoral Competency


Integrating cultural competency and pastoral counseling theory underscores the dual role
pastors play as spiritual leaders and informal mental health supporters. In communities where
mental health stigma persists, and access to professional care is limited, pastors often fill critical
gaps in service delivery. However, the findings also suggest that training programs for
professional counselors should emphasize the value of collaborating with faith leaders,
particularly in communities of color where the church plays a central role. Recognizing the
differences between pastoral and licensed counseling can foster more effective partnerships that
improve mental health outcomes through culturally competent, integrated care.


By framing the findings within both pastoral counseling theory and CACREP
competency frameworks, this study contributes to the broader discourse in counselor education.
It highlights the need for professional counselors to understand and respect the role of spiritual
care in mental health while advocating for collaborative models that combine the strengths of
both pastoral and licensed counseling practices.







Studies Related to Race-Related Mental Health and Pastoral Counseling


Research on African American mental health has consistently highlighted the impact of
systemic Racism, economic inequality, and historical trauma on psychological wellbeing
(Williams & Mohammed, 2009). However, limited research exists on how non-licensed African
American pastors specifically address these mental health concerns through counseling. What is
clear from the literature is that African American communities often seek mental health support
from religious leaders rather than formal mental health professionals (Hankerson et al., 2013).



This reliance on religious figures is due to cultural mistrust of the medical system, affordability
concerns, and the church's central role in African American life (Boyd-Franklin, 2013).
Previous studies, such as those conducted by Avent (2016), have shown that non-licensed
African American pastors often engage in counseling without formal mental health training.
However, they draw on their spiritual knowledge and deep understanding of the cultural and
social issues facing their parishioners. The impact of systemic Racism on mental health is
particularly salient in African American communities, where racial trauma often intersects with
other forms of stress, such as economic hardship and community violence (Comas-Diaz et al.,
2019).


Recent studies have emphasized the importance of cultural competence in mental health
services, highlighting the role non-licensed African American pastors can play as culturally
competent counselors (Neely, 2015). However, there remains a significant gap in the literature
regarding the specific experiences of these pastors in addressing race-related mental health
issues. Understanding how they navigate these complex challenges can inform broader efforts to
integrate mental health services into African American communities, particularly within faith-
based settings.


Efforts to incorporate cultural competence into mental health policies have also focused
on reducing the stigma surrounding mental health in African American communities. Recent
policies acknowledge non-licensed pastors' pivotal role and advocate for increased collaboration
between mental health professionals and faith-based institutions to improve service delivery.
These collaborations seek to bridge the gap between secular mental health services and the
spiritual, culturally embedded practices of African American pastors, promoting a holistic
approach to mental wellbeing that aligns with the values and beliefs of the community.


















Research Design and Rationale


This study employs a qualitative phenomenological approach to explore the lived
experiences of non-licensed African American pastors providing counseling for race-related
mental health issues. Phenomenology is well-suited for this research as it focuses on
understanding how individuals make sense of their experiences, particularly in complex contexts
where spirituality, race, and mental health intersect. This approach provides a platform for
capturing the depth and nuance of the participants' narratives, offering insights into the
challenges and strategies involved in their dual roles as spiritual and mental health supporters.




Research Questions
The following primary research question and related sub-questions guide the study:
Primary Research Question:

 How do African American pastors provide non-licensed counseling to address race-
related mental health challenges in their congregations?


Sub-Questions:


1. What spiritual practices and counseling strategies do pastors use to support congregants
facing racial trauma and mental health challenges?

2. How do African American pastors balance their pastoral duties with the demands of
informal counseling?

3. What challenges do pastors encounter in addressing severe mental health issues, and how
do they navigate their limitations?

4. How do African American pastors collaborate with licensed mental health professionals,
and what barriers exist to such partnerships?



These research questions guide the study’s methodology, ensuring that data collection and
analysis remain focused on exploring how non-licensed pastoral counseling addresses mental
health needs in African American communities.



Participants and Sampling


The study used purposive sampling to recruit 10 African American pastors from
predominantly Black churches in the eastern and southern regions of the United States. The
participants were selected based on the following criteria: they self-identified as African
American, had at least five years of pastoral experience, and provided informal counseling for
congregants dealing with mental health concerns, particularly those related to systemic Racism.
The sample size of 10 was determined using the principle of data saturation, where no new
themes emerged from additional interviews (Creswell & Poth, 2017).


Although purposive sampling ensures that participants have relevant experience, the
geographical focus may limit the transferability of the findings. This study reflects the realities of
pastors in specific regions, and the experiences of pastors in other areas or social contexts may
vary. Future research could broaden the sample to include participants from diverse geographical
locations to capture broader perspectives.




Data Collection

Data were collected through semi-structured Zoom interviews, accommodating
geographical constraints and COVID-19 precautions. Each interview lasted between 45 and 60
minutes, following an interview guide designed to elicit detailed responses. The guide included
questions about the participants' counseling practices, the role of spirituality in addressing mental
health issues, and their experiences working with mental health professionals. Follow-up

questions encouraged participants to reflect on their challenges and how they balanced pastoral
care with mental health support.

To ensure the credibility of the data, member checking was used. Participants were
provided with interview summaries to confirm the information's accuracy and clarify any
ambiguities. This iterative process ensured that the researchers captured the participants'
perspectives authentically.




Role of the Researchers


Since qualitative research relies heavily on the researcher as the primary instrument for
data collection and analysis, the research team used bracketing techniques to minimize bias. The
researchers consciously set aside personal experiences and assumptions related to pastoral
counseling to prevent these from influencing the data interpretation. Furthermore, the researchers
had yet to have prior relationships with the participants, reducing the risk of bias during the
interviews.



Data Analysis


Following Braun and Clarke's (2006) six-step framework, thematic analysis was
employed to analyze the data. This process involved familiarizing the research team with the
transcripts, generating initial codes, organizing codes into broader themes, and refining the
themes to ensure they captured the core of the participants' experiences. Key themes that
emerged included the use of spiritual practices, the challenges of navigating mental health
stigma, and the importance of collaboration with mental health professionals. The thematic
analysis allowed the researchers to identify shared patterns and unique experiences within the
data.




Ethical Considerations


The study followed ethical research standards by obtaining informed consent from all
participants. Participants were informed about the purpose of the study, their right to withdraw at
any time, and the measures in place to ensure confidentiality. Pseudonyms were assigned to all
participants to protect their identities. Additionally, the study adhered to Institutional Review
Board (IRB) protocols, ensuring all research activities complied with ethical guidelines for
human subjects.




Limitations


Several limitations should be acknowledged to enhance the transparency of the findings.
First, the data are based on self-reported experiences, which may introduce bias. Participants
may have unintentionally portrayed their counseling practices more favorably or omitted specific
challenges. This limitation is standard in qualitative research, where subjective narratives are
central to the inquiry.


Second, the geographical constraints of the sample limit the transferability of the
findings. Since participants were recruited from specific regions, the challenges and strategies
they described may not fully represent those faced by pastors in other areas. Future studies could
expand the sample to include pastors from different regions to capture a broader range of
experiences.

Finally, while the sample size of 10 participants aligns with qualitative research
standards, it limits the study’s ability to generalize findings to all African American pastors. The
insights provided by this study are specific to the selected participants, contributing to the
understanding of pastoral counseling in specific contexts rather than offering universal
conclusions.














Thematic analysis was utilized to systematically analyze the interview data, allowing the
research team to identify recurring patterns and themes from the participants' experiences. This
method was particularly appropriate for the study, as it explored commonalities and differences
across the participants' narratives while maintaining the depth and richness of their lived
experiences. The goal was to understand how non-licensed African American pastors navigate
their roles in providing counseling for race-related mental health issues.


Following Braun and Clarke's (2006) six-step process, the analysis began with an in-
depth familiarization of the data, followed by identifying key codes and emerging overarching
themes. Below is a detailed explanation of the thematic analysis process:


1. Familiarization with the data:

Each researcher read and re-read the interview
transcripts, fully immersing themselves in the data to comprehensively understand the
participants' experiences. This stage involved noting initial impressions and gaining a
holistic view of the narratives.


2. Generating initial codes:

The research team systematically identified and coded vital
phrases, recurring ideas, and meaningful patterns from the data. The codes were directly
linked to the research questions, such as how pastors approach counseling on race-related
mental health issues, the tools they use, and the challenges they face.



3. Searching for themes:

The initial codes were grouped into broader, more abstract
themes that captured the essence of the participants' experiences. For example, the theme
"Spiritual Guidance in Mental Health" emerged from multiple references to using
scripture and prayer in counseling.



4. Reviewing themes:

The research team then reviewed them to ensure they accurately
reflected the data. This step involved cross-referencing themes to avoid redundancy and
ensure each theme was distinct and well-defined.


5. Defining and naming themes:

Once finalized, each was carefully defined and labeled to
represent the key insights. For example, the theme "Racial Trauma as a Recurring Issue"
was named to encapsulate participants' discussions of the long-lasting impact of Racism
on mental health.


6. They were producing the report:

The final step involved synthesizing the themes into
coherent findings that could be integrated into the study’s results. The report emphasized
the significance of the identified themes and how they contributed to a deeper
understanding of the phenomenon under investigation.
Themes and Participant Statements

Through the thematic analysis, several major themes emerged from the data, supported by
participants' statements that highlighted their lived experiences:



1. Spiritual Guidance in Mental Health:

 Participant 1: "I rely on scripture and prayer when counseling parishioners because it
gives them a sense of hope and purpose. I always remind them that their faith is a
powerful tool in overcoming the mental and emotional struggles they face, especially
when it comes to Racism."


Participant 3: "When someone comes to me with mental health issues related to
Racism, I turn to our faith. I share passages about resilience and endurance, and we
pray together for strength."



2. Racial Trauma as a Recurring Issue:

Participant 2: "I see a lot of my congregation suffering from racial trauma—whether
it's something they experience at work, in their community, or through media. It
deeply affects their mental health, and they come to me looking for comfort and
answers."

Participant 4: "Racism isn’t just a one-time event. It’s like a constant pressure on our
people’s lives. You see the pain build up over time, and they come to the church to
find relief from this stress that never seems to go away."



3. Pastoral Limitations in Mental Health Counseling:

Participant 5: "I’m not a licensed counselor, and sometimes I feel like I’m in over my
head. I can offer spiritual guidance, but when someone is dealing with deep mental
health issues like depression, I know they need professional help."

Participant 6: "There are limits to what I can do. I try to provide support, but when it
comes to serious mental health conditions, I have to refer them to a professional
counselor. It is just beyond my skill set as a pastor."



4. Mental Health Stigma in the African American Community:

Participant 1: "Many people in our community see mental health struggles as a
weakness. They would rather suffer in silence than admit they need help, which
makes it harder for me as a pastor to reach them and offer support."

Participant 3: "There is still this stigma around mental health. People think it is a sign
of spiritual failure, and they're ashamed to ask for help. It's something we need to
address openly in the church."



5. Collaboration with Mental Health Professionals:

Participant 4: "I often refer people to mental health professionals when I feel that
spiritual counseling alone isn’t enough. It’s important to recognize that sometimes we
need both spiritual and professional help."

Participant 2: "I’ve had great success working with mental health professionals in the
community. We can provide spiritual support, but they have the expertise to deal with
the psychological aspects."









Trustworthiness


To ensure the credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability of the study, the
following strategies were implemented throughout the research process:


 Credibility: The research team employed member checking, where participants were
invited to review the findings and confirm that their experiences were accurately
represented. Additionally, triangulation was used to compare data across participants and
ensure consistency in identifying common themes.

Transferability: Thick, detailed descriptions were provided to capture the participants'
experiences in their cultural and spiritual contexts, allowing future researchers or
practitioners to assess the applicability of the findings to similar populations or contexts.

 Dependability: An audit trail was maintained, documenting the research process,
including all data collection and analysis decisions. This provided transparency and
enabled future replication of the study.

 Confirmability: The research team maintained a reflective journal, recording thoughts,
decisions, and potential biases. This helped ensure that the findings were grounded in the
data and not influenced by the researcher's preconceptions.







Discussion


The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the lived experiences of African
American pastors providing non-licensed counseling for race-related mental health issues
among their congregants. The research was rooted in understanding pastors' significant role
in Black communities, where the church has historically served as both a spiritual and social
institution. Through the phenomenological lens, this study delved into the unique approaches,
challenges, and insights of non-licensed pastoral counseling, mainly focusing on how African
American pastors navigate mental health issues tied to the pervasive effects of Racism.
The findings of the study revealed several key themes, including the impact of systemic
Racism on mental health, the role of spirituality and scripture in pastoral counseling, the
stigmatization of mental health issues within the African American community, and the
professional limitations pastors face when addressing complex psychological concerns. Each
of these themes offers a deeper understanding of how African American pastors operate
within their dual roles as spiritual leaders and informal mental health counselors, addressing
the needs of a vulnerable and underserved population.





Racism and Mental Health: A Dual Burden



One of the most salient themes that emerged from the study was the acknowledgment of
systemic Racism as a pervasive and enduring force that contributes to mental health struggles in
the African American community. All pastors described Racism not just as an individual
experience but as a societal and structural issue that negatively impacts African Americans'
mental wellbeing. This understanding aligns with existing research that highlights how Racism
functions as a chronic stressor, exacerbating psychological distress and mental health disorders
such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (Carter et al., 2017).

The pastors in this study articulated a sophisticated understanding of how systemic
Racism affects their parishioners. For example, some pastors described how the lingering effects
of Racism can shape individuals' self-perception, limit their potential, and create a sense of
hopelessness. These insights highlight the intricate connection between race, identity, and mental
health, reflecting broader literature on the psychological toll of Racism. Pastors' awareness of
these issues underscores their deep engagement with both the spiritual and emotional lives of
their congregants, positioning them as crucial community figures capable of addressing race-
related trauma.





The Role of Spirituality in Addressing Mental Health Issues


The second central theme that emerged from this study was the centrality of spirituality in
the counseling practices of African American pastors. Pastors overwhelmingly relied on
scripture, prayer, and spiritual guidance to help their congregants navigate mental health issues
related to Racism. They saw these spiritual practices as essential tools for restoring emotional
balance, promoting resilience, and fostering a sense of purpose and identity.
This finding is consistent with previous research demonstrating the importance of
religion and spirituality in the African American community as a primary coping mechanism
(Taylor et al., 2007). For many African Americans, the church is not only a place of worship but
also a sanctuary for healing and hope, especially in the face of societal discrimination and
personal challenges. The pastors in this study expressed a deep conviction that faith could
provide answers and solace where secular mental health approaches might fall short.


However, while spirituality is a powerful resource, it also raises questions about the
limitations of non-licensed pastoral counseling. While scripture and prayer offer emotional and
spiritual support, they may not be sufficient for addressing more severe mental health disorders
such as clinical depression, schizophrenia, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While
meaningful, reliance on spiritual resources may inadvertently prevent congregants from seeking
professional help when needed. This tension highlights the need for greater collaboration
between religious leaders and mental health professionals, a topic that emerged throughout this
study as a critical area for development.







The Stigma of Mental Health in the African American Community



The theme of mental health stigma was another significant finding in this study. Pastors
acknowledged that within the African American community, mental health remains a taboo
subject, often viewed as a sign of personal weakness or spiritual failing. This stigma is
particularly acute in churches, where the emphasis on faith and spiritual healing can sometimes
discourage individuals from seeking professional psychological help. As several pastors pointed
out, there is a "what happens in the family stays in the family" mentality, which can prevent open
discussions about mental health struggles.


This finding supports existing research on the cultural barriers to mental health treatment
in African American communities (Ward et al., 2013). African Americans are significantly less
likely to seek mental health services than their White counterparts, often due to a combination of
stigma, mistrust of the healthcare system, and a lack of access to culturally competent care. The
pastors in this study recognized this barrier and actively sought to reduce stigma by creating safe
spaces for open dialogue about mental health within their churches.


Despite these efforts, there remains a gap between the need for professional mental health
services and the resources available in the Black church. Pastors are uniquely positioned to
bridge this gap, but without formal mental health training, they may be ill-equipped to recognize
or address more complex psychological disorders. This further underscores the importance of

building partnerships between churches and mental health professionals to serve better the
mental health needs of the African American community.







Professional Limitations and the Need for Collaboration


Another critical theme identified in the study was the pastors' recognition of their
professional limitations. While the pastors expressed a strong desire to help their congregants
navigate mental health issues, many acknowledged that they lacked the formal training necessary
to address certain psychological conditions. This self-awareness is crucial, highlighting the
pastors' openness to collaboration with mental health professionals.


Several pastors in this study had experience working with licensed therapists through
referrals or informal consultations. They desired more structured partnerships between the
church and the mental health profession. They emphasized the value of a "dual approach" that
integrates spiritual guidance with psychological care. This model could provide holistic support
to individuals dealing with race-related trauma and mental health challenges. This is consistent
with previous research suggesting that collaborative models between faith leaders and mental
health providers can enhance mental health care delivery in underserved populations (Hankerson
& Weissman, 2012).







Discussion and Integration of Afro-Centric Themes



The findings of this study highlight the significant role African American pastors play in
addressing mental health challenges through a culturally grounded framework that reflects core
Afro-centric principles. Themes of communal care, spirituality, resilience, and cultural
competence emerged prominently, offering valuable insights into how faith-based leaders
provide informal mental health support. These Afro-centric practices align with the philosophy
of ubuntu, which emphasizes that individual wellbeing is interconnected with the health and



harmony of the broader community. This approach to counseling contrasts with more
individualistic Western models and provides meaningful implications for multicultural
counseling practices and counselor education programs.





Implications for Multicultural Counseling Practices


Understanding ubuntu can profoundly shape how counselors approach their work in
multicultural settings. In the context of Afro-centric counseling, pastors’ reliance on communal
care fosters a sense of shared responsibility and belonging among congregants, which can be a
powerful tool for healing (Balestrery, 2023). Counselors working with African American
clients—or other communities that emphasize collective identity—can benefit from integrating
similar principles. For example, involving clients’ family members or community networks in
treatment plans can reinforce healing processes, drawing on the same communal strengths that
these pastors rely on in their informal counseling practices (Balestrery, 2023).



Additionally, using spirituality as a coping mechanism—such as prayer, scripture, and
religious rituals—provides further insights for multicultural counseling (Asnaani & Hofmann,
2012). Licensed counselors can strengthen therapeutic alliances by recognizing and validating
the spiritual beliefs of their clients. Incorporating spiritual elements, when appropriate, can
enhance trust and improve therapeutic outcomes, mainly when working with clients from
communities that place a high value on faith. These insights suggest that counseling strategies
must be tailored to diverse clients' cultural and spiritual needs to ensure that treatment is relevant
and effective (Asnaani & Hofmann, 2012).







Integration into Counselor Education and Training Programs


The findings of this study have direct implications for counselor education programs,
particularly in the areas of cultural competence and faith-based counseling. Counselor Education


programs accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational
Programs (CACREP) emphasize the importance of preparing students to work effectively with
diverse populations (CACREP, 2016). The insights from this study underscore the need for these
programs to incorporate training modules that address the intersection of spirituality, race, and
mental health (Sharma et al., 2023).


Training future counselors to engage with faith-based leaders can foster collaborative
care models, ensuring clients have access to professional mental health services and spiritual
support (Sharma et al., 2023). Role-playing exercises and case studies involving scenarios where
counselors collaborate with pastors or other spiritual leaders can be particularly beneficial. Such
training would equip counselors with the skills to navigate partnerships with faith communities,
ensuring that culturally relevant care is provided in settings where formal mental health services
may not always be the first point of access.


Counselor education programs can also benefit from integrating cultural humility into their
curricula. Cultural humility emphasizes a lifelong commitment to self-reflection and openness to
learning from others, including non-licensed caregivers such as pastors. This approach aligns
with Afro-centric values, encouraging counselors to respect the expertise of community leaders
and acknowledge the value of informal counseling practices (Sharma et al., 2023).







Expanding Collaborative Models


The study’s findings also highlight the need for more structured partnerships between
African American pastors and licensed mental health professionals. Collaborative models that
integrate spiritual and professional care can help bridge the gap between informal counseling and
clinical treatment, particularly for individuals who may be reluctant to seek formal mental health
services due to stigma or mistrust of healthcare systems (Hankerson et al., 2018). Programs that

train counselors to engage meaningfully with faith-based leaders can contribute to more
comprehensive and accessible mental health care for underserved communities.
By fostering partnerships between counselors and pastors, both groups can complement
each other's work—pastors can provide culturally aligned spiritual support while licensed
professionals address more complex psychological issues (Hankerson et al., 2018). These
partnerships reflect the core principle of ubuntu, recognizing that healing occurs through shared
efforts and interconnected care. Collaborative care models rooted in Afro-centric principles can
serve as powerful examples for other communities where spiritual leaders play a central role in
mental wellbeing (Hankerson et al., 2018).