Kasim Abdur Razzaq, a former basketball star from St. Paul, is now a dedicated mental health practitioner. He aims to inspire more Black professionals to enter the mental health field, leveraging his own experiences and a grant from the Bush Foundation to create a pipeline for future therapists.
Key Takeaways
- Kasim Abdur Razzaq transitioned from a basketball career to mental health after discovering a passion for helping youth with behavioral and mental health issues.
- He holds multiple advanced degrees and works primarily with Black and Muslim communities.
- Razzaq received a grant from the Bush Foundation to develop a pipeline for Black mental health professionals.
- His approach emphasizes cultural alignment and collaboration with the community.
- Only 2% of mental health professionals in Minnesota are Black, highlighting the need for more diversity in the field.
From Basketball to Mental Health
Kasim Abdur Razzaq’s journey from a high school and college basketball star to a mental health practitioner began when he started working with young people dealing with behavioral and mental health issues. His initial role involved helping youth develop skills to manage their mental health symptoms, which ignited his passion for the field.
Advanced Education and Private Practice
Razzaq pursued further education, earning master’s degrees in clinical social work and education, followed by a doctorate in clinical and counseling psychology. He now runs a private practice focused on serving Black and Muslim communities, groups that have historically faced marginalization in mental health care.
The Need for a Black Mental Health Professional Pipeline
Razzaq’s work is driven by the disparities in mental health support for Black and Muslim communities. These groups often face barriers to access, misdiagnosis, overmedication, and a lack of culturally aligned services. His goal is to create a pipeline of Black mental health professionals who can provide culturally competent care.
The Bush Foundation Grant
With the support of a grant from the Bush Foundation, Razzaq plans to take time away from his full-time job to organize and develop this pipeline. He aims to collaborate with schools and community organizations to identify and train potential mental health professionals from within these communities.
A Vision for the Future
Razzaq envisions a future where the mental health workforce is more diverse and culturally competent. He hopes to develop a solid business model for his work and improve the representation and effectiveness of mental health professionals. His efforts aim to not only increase the number of Black therapists but also to change the way mental health services are delivered.
Overcoming Challenges
Razzaq’s journey has not been without challenges. He applied for the Bush fellowship four times before finally receiving it. His persistence underscores his commitment to making a difference in the mental health field.
Conclusion
Kasim Abdur Razzaq’s work is a testament to the importance of representation and cultural competence in mental health care. By developing a pipeline for Black mental health professionals, he hopes to inspire others to join the field and provide much-needed services to marginalized communities.
