DSW Showcase Student Presentation

D’Netra Young-Lawal

MSW

The Strong Black Woman Reimagined: Integrating Cultural Competence and Trauma-Informed Care in Social Work Education

Concentration - Social Work Education

Abstract

The Strong Black Woman (SBW) schema, often celebrated for its resilience and strength, carries significant implications for the mental health and well-being of Black women. These cultural expectations can marginalize vulnerability, discourage help-seeking behaviors, and contribute to persistent mental health disparities. This presentation, The Strong Black Woman Reimagined: Integrating Cultural Competence and Trauma-Informed Care in Social Work Education, focuses on how social work educators can address these challenges within academic and training environments. This presentation will explore the intersection of the SBW schema, systemic inequities, and mental health through the lens of cultural competence and trauma-informed care. Participants will learn how to incorporate these frameworks into social work curricula to prepare future practitioners to recognize and address the unique experiences of Black women. Strategies for fostering mental health equity, challenging stereotypes, and creating inclusive learning environments will be emphasized. Designed specifically for social work educators, this presentation will include evidence-based practices, reflective activities, and practical tools to bridge theoretical frameworks with real-world application. Join us in reimagining how social work education can empower students to challenge systemic barriers, advocate for mental health equity, and provide culturally responsive, trauma-informed care for Black women and other marginalized populations.

Biography

D’Netra Young-Lawal, MSW, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker, educator, and advocate for culturally responsive and trauma-informed social work practice. She is a doctoral candidate in Social Work Education at the University of Kentucky. She holds a Master of Social Work from Albany State University and a Bachelor of Social Work from Fort Valley State University.

She is the Director of Field Education and a Lecturer at Fort Valley State University, where she teaches field experience and practicum courses for bachelor-level social work students. She also owns Journey to Oasis Counseling and Consulting Services, LLC, a practice focused on empowering Black women and supporting life transitions.

Her research examines mental health disparities among Black women, particularly the Strong Black Woman (SBW) schema. Her capstone project, “The Strong Black Woman Reimagined: Integrating Cultural Competence and Trauma-Informed Care in Social Work Education,” explores how social work programs can integrate cultural competence and trauma-informed care to prepare students better to support Black women.

Beyond academia and clinical work, D’Netra is deeply engaged in community advocacy. She serves on the Advisory Board of I Am King Foundation, Inc., supporting at-risk Black male youth, and the Executive Board of Georgia Kinship Project, Inc., bridging the gap for kinship caregivers.

D’Netra is committed to advancing social work education, fostering culturally competent and trauma-informed practice, and advocating for marginalized communities. Through her teaching, research, and advocacy, she strives to empower individuals, drive systemic change, and prepare future social workers to make a lasting impact.