Black Male Mental Health Professional Mentoring Program (BMMH-MP)

Program Background

BMMH programA collaboration between the UConn School of Social Work and the Neag School of Education, Girding the Roots: A Mentorship Model for Practitioners and Student Trainees to Support Black Male Mental Health Wellbeing is a pilot initiative designed to advance the success, longevity, and well-being of emerging and current graduate student professionals in mental health training programs who are committed to supporting Black male mental health and wellness.

This culturally grounded model integrates four key components: mentorship, connection, trainings, and professional development round tables, offering a holistic approach to personal and professional growth. To help offset the rising cost of education and program commitment, each student will receive a stipend distributed in quarterly installments.

Student Eligibility

• Master level students entering their final year of their program in counselor education, social work, psychology, or marriage and family therapy.
• Maintain an ongoing and long-term commitment to serving Black youth and male mental health.
• Reside, work, or attend school in the Greater Hartford area.

Program Requirements

• Engage in mentee-mentor engagement throughout the program.
• Attend and participate in all retreat, trainings, and professional development round tables.
• Maintain good academic standing.
• Participate in a required interview.

Mentorship Mentee & Mentor Check-ins

Once participants are matched, their mentorship journey begins with an initial in-person meeting at the program retreat. Each mentor–mentee pair is expected to connect at least once per month, fostering consistent engagement and support. These interactions are designed to be flexible and can take place in person, virtually, or by phone, allowing pairs to build meaningful and sustainable connections even beyond their involvement in the program.

Retreat

Retreats are held separately for the mentees and mentors. The purpose of these separate meetings is to help participants connect with others in their cohort, build a sense of community, and review the program model and expectations.

Trainings

Student mentees will participate in required trainings in child sexual abuse prevention, and trauma-informed counseling. Participant mentors will be invited, but are not required, to attend the trainings.

Professional Development Roundtables

Four professional development roundtables will be held throughout the year. These roundtables are designed to provide an additional avenue to promote emotional, academic, and professional growth, while also supporting the career success, longevity, and overall well-being of both mentees and mentors. Each roundtable will feature expert Consultant-Speakers from across the mental health field who will share insights, strategies, and real-world perspectives related to supporting Black men and boys. Participants will gain valuable knowledge, expand their professional networks, and access career development and training opportunities that support their continued growth and success.

More Information

Interested students should email Milagros Marrero-Johnson and Latoya Haynes-Thoby.