Can You See Us?

*This presentation is no longer eligible for the 1 CE credit*

The term, “I don’t see color” is often used by individuals to describe their views on diversity but this phrase can be detrimental in therapeutic settings when treating persons of color. The ability for providers to “see” color allows for the development of culturally competent programming and is the critical factor of developing a therapeutic alliance. Data shows that racial and marginalized groups are likely to experience limited access and poor engagement in substance use disorder treatment. “Seeing color” allows providers to acknowledge and address the complexity of barriers and issues facing individuals and families in need of mental health and substance use disorder treatment. This workshop provides an overview of the prevalent issues impacting substance abuse disorders among marginalized and underserved communities, presents information to help providers to understand cultural issues relevant to treating persons of color, and examines how programs can develop processes to monitor and access efforts to incorporate cultural humility and cultural responsiveness.

Presented by:
Zina Rodriguez, MSW, MCAP, CDE

Zina is CEO and Co-Founder of Z&D Consulting whose mission is to create inviting, intentional, and inclusive healing spaces for individuals to achieve mental wellness while creating pathways for success for individuals from underrepresented communities. She has over 25 years of combined experience in the private sector and in behavioral health care. Her expertise includes strategic planning, multi-cultural marketing, multi-cultural program development, licensing, and accreditation. She has held senior leadership positions for national and global behavioral health care companies where she has served as Executive Director and in Senior Marketing and Business Development roles.

As a Certified Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Executive, Zina collaborates with organizations to create an integrated DEI strategy to align with their mission and values with the goal of having inclusive environments for their staff and clients. Zina is a global speaker on topics related to Cultural Competency and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Behavioral Healthcare and co-hosts the podcast “Colors of Recovery” covering a range of topics related to mental health, substance abuse, and recovery within marginalized communities.

Zina holds a Master’s in Social Work degree with a concentration in Administration from Fordham University and a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Rutgers University.

Contact: zina@zndconsulting.com
(305)-771-4240