The Alberta Black Therapists Network comprises licensed and regulated Black professionals with interdisciplinary backgrounds who specialize in mental health and addictions. The group strives to tackle health disparities, particularly in mental health, that disproportionately affect Black Canadians. Before approval for membership, all members must evidence good standing with liability and insurance.
The ABTN acknowledges anti-Black racism, oppression, and systemic changes as the underlying causes of mental health challenges experienced by Black Canadians. The network deems it paramount to address these issues to enhance the general well-being of Black Canadians and advance psychological well-being for the community and society at large.
The ABTN strives to provide the highest quality therapeutic services to their communities by networking, continued training, and using evidence-based approaches. They also aim to increase emotional wellness and promote self-care skills such as self-awareness, self-confidence, positive thinking, goal setting, responsible decision-making, and healthy relationships. By normalizing lived experiences and engaging in psychoeducation, they hope to reduce barriers to psychological health and decrease stigma against seeking additional support when needed.
ABTN offers many benefits to therapists who want to continue building their brand. We provide yearly educational opportunities, supervision, and mentoring. Additionally, we have a private WhatsApp group where therapists can connect with each other and ask questions in a safe space.
To help reduce isolation and foster connections within the community, ABTN hosts various unique events. These include family BBQs, social happy hours, monthly networking events, and opportunities for knowledge sharing, consultation, and learning how to start and maintain a successful private practice. We also hold a yearly Gala and an Annual Black History Month get-together dinner.
