The journey toward better mental health for men is one that requires both support and understanding, especially when it comes to breaking down barriers that discourage them from seeking help. Dr. Justin Keith Dodson, PhD, LPC, founder of Navigating Courage Counseling & Consultation, L.L.C., is on a mission to redefine how men, particularly Black men, approach their mental well-being. His work is not just about therapy—it’s about creating a cultural shift that encourages men to take control of their mental health and see it as a vital component of their overall strength.

Dr. Dodson’s practice focuses exclusively on adult men, with a significant emphasis on serving Black men. His deep commitment to this demographic stems from his own life experiences, including the profound loss of his father at a young age and the lingering feelings of exclusion that shaped his early years. These personal challenges have driven Dr. Dodson to help other men unlearn unhealthy patterns and build lives where they feel more in control.

In his practice, Dr. Dodson believes that representation is more than just a concept—it’s a crucial element of effective therapy. With 80% of his clients being Black men, he understands the unique language and cultural nuances that make his clients feel understood and supported. This connection is essential in a field where Black men are significantly underrepresented and where mental health care is often seen as out of reach.

The statistics speak volumes about the need for targeted mental health support. Research from the National Library of Medicine reveals that a staggering 56-74% of Black males who have experienced traumatic events are not receiving the mental health services they need. Moreover, Black male trauma survivors are much less likely to seek out these services compared to other groups. These numbers highlight the barriers—such as accessibility issues, cultural stigma, and the scarcity of relatable mental health professionals—that keep many Black men from getting the help they need.

Dr. Dodson is keenly aware of these challenges and emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where seeking help is normalized. He often encounters negative perceptions about therapy, especially from those close to men who are struggling. Such attitudes can discourage men from taking that crucial first step toward healing. Dr. Dodson advocates for a shift in how we respond to men who choose therapy, urging us to support their growth rather than resist the changes they undergo. Positive reinforcement, even when it disrupts established dynamics, is key to encouraging men to continue their journey toward mental wellness.

Cultural expectations have long dictated that Black men must be pillars of strength, often to the detriment of their mental health. Dr. Dodson challenges this narrative, asserting that true strength includes the ability to recognize when help is needed and to act on that need. He works with successful men, helping them feel more in control of their lives by teaching them how to unlearn destructive behaviors and replace them with healthier patterns.

For those contemplating therapy, Dr. Dodson offers practical advice on how to begin. He suggests starting with a vision of the future—how you want your life to change—and using that vision as a foundation for setting therapy goals. He also recommends doing thorough research to find a therapist who aligns with your needs and values, and ensuring that therapy is a priority in your budget, whether through insurance or private payment. Committing fully to the process, despite its challenges, is essential for real, lasting change.

Even if therapy isn’t on the immediate horizon, there are still steps that men can take to improve their mental health. Dr. Dodson encourages building a supportive social network and incorporating regular physical activity into daily routines as ways to find relief and joy amidst life’s challenges. His message to Black men is clear: you deserve to live fully, to love deeply, to build, and to thrive. Breaking unhealthy patterns is a step toward achieving that full potential.

Dr. Dodson’s work is not just about therapy—it’s about empowering men to redefine what strength means and to take proactive steps toward their mental well-being. By changing the conversation around mental health, he is helping to create a future where more men feel empowered to seek the help they need and live the lives they deserve.

For a more in-depth look at Dr. Justin Keith Dodson’s approach to men’s mental health, you can read the original article by DeAnna Taylor in Ebony Magazine, published on June 13, 2024.

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please call or text 988 (National Suicide Hotline). If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please call 911 or go to your nearest hospital/emergency center. 

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