"I hear you": The Psychology of Our Differences

When interacting with people, we can easily identify our differences. But, what happens when we recognize that we all have differences? Communities where individuals can grieve and heal collectively, emerge and are united by a shared identity that influences the ways in which we experience the sociopolitical world. So, how do we advance mental health practices to meet the needs of a diverse world and honor differences? José R. Rosario is a speaker, author and above all, an advocate. As a member of many diverse identity groups, Jose recognizes that common experiences bring people together and that taking stock of who we are gives us power. Jose wants to inspire others to acknowledge their identities, share their stories and empower those who are underrepresented to rise. As a mental health professional, Jose understands that this empowerment, and the creation of a space to be vulnerable, can lead to individual and group growth, awakening agents for change (TedxProvidence, 2019).