‘Mental health isn’t a one-size-fits-all’

News
Written By The Phoenix Empowered
A Picture of José R. Rosario

About This Event

José R. Rosario was invited to speak as part of Washington State University’s Disability & Intersectionality Fall Speaker Series, a program dedicated to exploring the ways identity, lived experience, and systems of privilege intersect to influence access to mental health care. The session was hosted by the WSU Access Center and the Disabled Students & Allies Club.

José’s Message & Advocacy

During his presentation, José emphasized the importance of culturally responsive and identity-affirming mental health care, noting that no single approach to healing works for everyone. He spoke about how cultural background, disability, queerness, and community experiences shape the ways individuals navigate mental health, seek support, and access care.

Building on his research and clinical training, José discussed disparities in mental health services—particularly for communities impacted by discrimination, trauma, and systemic barriers. He encouraged attendees to reflect on how identity influences both personal healing journeys and the ethical obligation mental health professionals have to provide inclusive care.

Key Themes from the Dialogue

  • The connection between identity, culture, and mental health

  • Barriers marginalized communities face when seeking care

  • The importance of representation and inclusion in mental health professions

  • How stigma, privilege, and systemic inequities influence access

  • The role of allies in amplifying voices and advocating for equitable support

Why This Matters

This event reflects José’s ongoing mission to transform mental health systems into spaces that honor the full humanity of the people they serve. His message reinforces that healing must be inclusive, culturally informed, and grounded in understanding individual identity—rather than imposed through a one-size-fits-all model.

Source

This event and original reporting were covered by The Daily Evergreen.
Read the original article here:
https://dailyevergreen.com/92226/news/mental-health-isnt-a-one-size-fits-all/

The Phoenix Empowered

The Phoenix Empowered is a storytelling-and-education organization dedicated to amplifying the voices of minoritized communities and advancing inclusive mental-health conversations. We believe in the power of connection, creativity, and community to inspire change. Through our platform, we invite individuals to share their stories, explore identity, and engage in vulnerability with no stigma attached. Our work is rooted in the philosophy that “taking stock of who we are gives us power.”

Whether through personal narrative, art, discussion, or activism, The Phoenix Empowered meets individuals where they are — and rises together.

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