A recent paper has highlighted the urgent need for greater inclusion of racialized psychologists in Canada, addressing a significant gap in mental health care for diverse communities. Titled Lions at the Gate: How Weaponization of Policy Prevents People of Colour from Becoming Professional Psychologists in Canada, the study draws attention to systemic barriers that have limited the representation of Black, Indigenous, and other people of colour (BIPOC) within the profession.
Every day, individuals from racialized communities encounter difficulties in finding psychologists who share or understand their lived experiences. This shortage not only affects the quality of care but also perpetuates inequities within the profession. The paper’s lead author, Dr. S. C. Faber, a clinical psychologist and professor at the University of Ottawa, shared her personal struggle to find culturally competent care. In her search for a Black psychologist in Ottawa, she found none available, ultimately having to consult a White psychologist in Toronto. This experience, she notes, is not unique, as many face similar challenges.
The research identifies several critical factors that inhibit the entry of BIPOC individuals into the field of psychology. An alarming statistic reveals that among 481 full-time faculty members in Canadian psychology departments, only two were Indigenous and just seven were Black. More than half of these departments lacked any Black faculty members, which raises concerns about mentorship and the perpetuation of a homogenous academic environment.
The authors argue that seemingly neutral policies and flexible accreditation standards can inadvertently maintain the status quo when not accompanied by concrete diversity metrics. Without clear, measurable requirements for equity, even well-intentioned guidelines can allow biases to persist unchecked. The paper emphasizes that the absence of systematic collection of race-based demographic data remains a fundamental barrier to progress in the field.
The aim of the research goes beyond merely identifying issues; it seeks to offer actionable solutions. While the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) has made recent updates to its accreditation standards, the authors argue that these changes alone will not dismantle long-standing barriers unless they are accompanied by mechanisms for accountability.
One proposed solution is to establish race-based data collection as a standard for university programs seeking accreditation. This foundational step is crucial for ensuring accountability and fostering an environment where diversity can thrive. Additionally, the paper advocates for amending the CPA’s by-laws to include designated voting board seats for representatives from the organization’s Black, Asian, and Indigenous Peoples’ psychology sections. Historical data shows that the CPA Board has been, on average, 87.1% White over the past 13 years.
The implications of these findings extend beyond academia; they directly impact public trust and the quality of mental health care. Clients often benefit from therapists who understand their cultural backgrounds and the realities of systemic racism. The authors stress that the health of communities hinges on the accessibility and representation of the psychology profession.
Dr. Faber and her colleagues assert that it is time to move beyond statements of support for equity and to engage in meaningful action that addresses these systemic issues. The call for change is clear: for the psychology profession to reflect the diverse society it serves, it must prioritize inclusion and representation.
As the discourse on mental health continues to evolve, the urgency of these findings cannot be overstated. The future of mental health care in Canada depends on dismantling barriers that prevent BIPOC individuals from entering and thriving in the field of psychology.
