Date of Award
Winter 4-28-2026
Thesis Access
Open Access Honors Thesis
Thesis Location
Honors College Thesis
Degree Name
B.S.
Department
Psychology
Faculty Advisor
Dr. Christoper Trentacosta
Abstract
Black American Christians in predominantly Black churches often face limited access to adequate mental health resources due to historical mistrust, systemic inequalities, and cultural stigma. These barriers are rooted in longstanding distrust of psychological services, the underrepresentation of Black mental health care professionals, and the high cost and inaccessibility of care. Additionally, stigma within Black Christian communities may discourage individuals from seeking help from mental health professionals, particularly when such care is perceived as conflicting with religious beliefs. Despite these challenges, Black churches remain central and trusted institutions within their communities, positioning them as crucial sites for mental health support. Integrating faith-based and culturally sensitive psychological services into these settings may help bridge gaps in care while respecting spiritual values. Collaboration between mental health professionals and church leaders has the potential to reduce stigma, increase accessibility, and address the systemic disparities in mental health treatment among Black Americans.
Recommended Citation
Wingate, Grace N., "The Integration of Mental Health Services within the Black Church: A Literature Review of Systematic Inequalities, Stigma, and Culturally Responsive Approaches" (2026). Honors College Theses. 98.
https://digitalcommons.wayne.edu/honorstheses/98
Included in
Clinical Psychology Commons, Community Psychology Commons, Multicultural Psychology Commons