Infusing Critical Race Theory Into a Liberation-Based Social Justice Pedagogy in Counselor Education

Abstract

In this chapter, the author critically examines the deeply entrenched practices and theories within counselor education, revealing their roots in historically dominant, Eurocentric, and often racially oppressive assumptions. This study brings to light the pervasive impact of these traditional approaches, illuminating their role in perpetuating racial oppression and disparities in mental health care. The author presents a compelling argument for adopting Critical Race Theory (CRT) as an effective pedagogical and clinical practice framework in the counseling profession, a step toward its much-needed liberation. CRT's tenets are examined as a robust alternative, promoting socially just outcomes in counseling and psychotherapy. The article highlights CRT's capacity to address the well-established relationship between racism, white supremacy, and minority mental health. It proposes a groundbreaking model for praxis, predicated on CRT, which holds potential not only to challenge and disrupt oppressive structures but also to pave the way for the liberation of both the oppressed and the oppressor. This seminal work prompts a re-envisioning of counselor education, asserting a call for a transformative shift toward a liberation-based, social justice pedagogy.

Citation

Reynolds, C. (2023), "Infusing Critical Race Theory Into a Liberation-Based Social Justice Pedagogy in Counselor Education", Lalas, J.W. and Strikwerda, H.L. (Ed.) Contextualizing Critical Race Theory on Inclusive Education From a Scholar-Practitioner Perspective (International Perspectives on Inclusive Education, Vol. 22), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 223-251. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1479-363620230000022013