Black Student Wellness

This in-person support group is a space for any and all Black male identifying students. Meant to mirror the ease and authenticity of conversation in the cultural hub that is the barber shop, key topics include: Black masculinity, being “the only one,” healing generational trauma, relationships, as well as day-to-day stressors of student life. This group serves as a safe space for “real talk,” openness, and vulnerability, supported by our Black Wellness Counsellor.

This drop-in support group allows Black-identifying students to have a space where their concerns – big or small – can be explored with peers as well as a trained Black Mental Health professional. Discussions will focus on emergent concerns that are meaningfully relevant to the Black student experience at McMaster University. The group format will allow for Black students from different programs and levels of study to connect and experience a sense of community support with regard to their mental health.

Blackspace is a black-focused club at Mcmaster University prioritized for Black Women and Non-binary students, dedicated to fostering a sense of community, collaboration, and empowerment. Through this initiative, we aspire to uplift and amplify the voices of the students we are privileged to serve, ensuring that their unique experiences and perspectives thrive within our shared space. Group events are shared @blackspace.mcmaster.

Winter 2022: Starting March 2nd – Wednesdays (5 wks.) Time: 1:30 – 3:00pm

Exploring the imposter phenomenon

Why do feelings of inadequacy follow me? Let’s explore the imposter phenomenon from a unique Black perspective that is internalized through structural anti-Blackness. In this 5-week group session, Black students will reflect on lived experiences to identify, and understand feelings of imposter and learn its impact on mental distress. We will discuss what is harming your confidence and impeding your ambitions.

In addition, Black students will gain strategies and tools to increase self-acceptance and personal empowerment to thrive.

For more information or to register, email Glenda van der Leeuw MSW, RSW at vandeg5@mcmaster.ca or bss@mcmaster.ca

For additional support, you can also connect with The Student Wellness Centre reception so they can create a chart for you and be intentional about your needs. Call 905-525-9140 x 27700 or visit their website to learn more.

Ongoing group sessions :

Wednesdays: September 29th / October 13th & 27th / November 10th & 24 / December 8th all from 12:30pm-2:30pm

Rohan Thompson is a dedicated licensed social worker/psychotherapist. Versed in a broad range of treatment approaches, Rohan has more than 15 years of experience working with individuals and families who need support navigating challenges, healing from traumas, and maintaining mental wellness. He has also worked closely with organizations to improve employee mental health and ensure equity-driven policies, programming, and executive leadership. Rohan’s experience as a psychotherapist and consultant is backed by a Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University, where he was a member of the football team, as well as his passion is fueled by an unwavering belief in the value and impact of mental wellness. In addition to his counselling and consulting work, Rohan supports his community as a youth football coach and a board member of a local not-for-profit.

For more information or meet with Rohan, please email him at: rohan@thebreakthrough.ca

For crisis support, please visit www.wellness.mcmaster.ca/crisis-support/ for immediate resources and support.

Ongoing one-on-one appointments available:

Thursdays: October 7th & 21st / November 4th & 18th / December 2nd & 16 all available for an hour 11:30am /12:30pm / 1:30pm

Rohan Thompson is a dedicated licensed social worker/psychotherapist. Versed in a broad range of treatment approaches, Rohan has more than 15 years of experience working with individuals and families who need support navigating challenges, healing from traumas, and maintaining mental wellness. He has also worked closely with organizations to improve employee mental health and ensure equity-driven policies, programming, and executive leadership. Rohan’s experience as a psychotherapist and consultant is backed by a Master of Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University, where he was a member of the football team, as well as his passion is fueled by an unwavering belief in the value and impact of mental wellness. In addition to his counselling and consulting work, Rohan supports his community as a youth football coach and a board member of a local not-for-profit.

For more information or meet with Rohan, please email him at: rohan@thebreakthrough.ca

For crisis support, please visit www.wellness.mcmaster.ca/crisis-support/ for immediate resources and support.

Launched in Feb 2022, this student-led peer support group is an opportunity to reclaim your mental health and wellness. Black students, take lead in being a part of creating a safe space.

Upcoming Meeting Dates:

March 10th, 6-7 pm

March 24th, 6-7 pm

April 7th, 6-7 pm

April 21st, 6-7 pm

To register email  bxscape@mcmaster.ca

This program is in partnership with the Student Wellness Centre

Coming soon…

Pioneers of Black Mental Health #BHMMAC2023

The Student Wellness Centre has put together a collection of Pioneers in Black Mental Health in recognition of February as Black History Month (BHM) – a time to celebrate the contributions and achievements of Black and African diasporic peoples. To celebrate, the SWC counselling team has curated list of Black Historic pioneers who have contributed to the field of mental health & wellness. Check out the below for mini-biographies and achievement highlights.

To learn more about the collection click here.