Presented By: Erlanger (Earl) Turner, Ph.D.,
Pepperdine University

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This webinar invites practitioners to move beyond pathology-focused frameworks and toward strengths-based, culturally responsive practice with Black men. Research emphasizes the importance of contextualizing lived experiences within systems of oppression to foster healing and resilience. Practitioners will be encouraged to understand how racism, discrimination, and structural inequities shape mental health among Black men while also recognizing the adaptive coping strategies Black men develop. This perspective is necessary to deepen clinical understanding and help prevent the pathologizing of responses to chronic stressors. Second, the webinar will use a strengths-based approach leveraging cultural assets and relational strengths. Rather than focusing solely on challenges, clinicians will be guided to explore sources of resilience such as community connectedness, spirituality, cultural pride, and family relationships. These assets can be integrated into treatment to enhance engagement and support meaningful, sustainable outcomes. Finally, the webinar will highlight the importance of building trust through identity-affirming and collaborative interventions. Given historical and ongoing mistrust of mental health systems, practitioners must engage with cultural humility, validate clients’ identities, and co-create goals that align with their values and lived experiences.

Learning Objective: Describe 3 core principles of culturally responsive and strengths-based models when working with Black men.

Erlanger “Earl” Turner, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist, tenured professor, and owner of Turner Psychological & Consulting Services. As a nationally recognized speaker, consultant, and mental health expert, his innovative work has advanced racial justice and equitable treatment. Dr. Turner also provides clinical services as a licensed psychologist with The Weight Room, a telehealth practice, where he supports Black and Brown boys and men through culturally responsive therapy and therapeutic programming.
Dr. Turner is the author of Mental Health among African Americans and Raising Resilient Black Kids. In 2020, he made history as the first Black man to serve as President of the Society for Child and Family Policy and Practice (APA Division 37). More recently, he was awarded the 2025 Division 51 Outstanding Advocate for Boys Award. Dr. Turner is a passionate advocate for advancing mental health care, particularly in underserved communities, and continues to shape the conversation on mental wellness and culturally responsive care.