Dr. Abe: A Mental Health Leader for a Community in Need

Whether new arrivals, permanent residents, or naturalized citizens, African immigrants in the Twin Cities area often encounter obstacles when it comes to addressing mental health concerns and seeking professional care in a new cultural and social context. We sat down with Dr. Abe Gebeyehu, a remarkable school-based mental health practitioner, to learn what it means to lead a community of African immigrants who may need Adult Rehabilitative Mental Health Services (ARMHS).

Before we dive into his thoughts, let’s contextualize African immigrant challenges in the U.S. today.

Language barriers can also present another obstacle in the journey toward mental well-being for African immigrants to the US, further limiting their access to mental health services. For example, individuals may struggle with English proficiency, hindering their ability to communicate their thoughts and emotions effectively. This can lead to misdiagnoses, misunderstandings, and a lack of culturally competent care, exacerbating the challenges faced by those seeking mental health support.

Financial considerations carry the potential to pose yet another challenge for African immigrants seeking mental health care in the United States. The cost of mental health services coupled with the potential lack of insurance coverage can create significant barriers to access. Individuals can find themselves unable to afford the necessary treatment, leading to delayed or inadequate care that can have long-term consequences for their mental health.

The process of acculturation (adapting to a new culture) can contribute to heightened stress and mental health challenges for African émigrés. Social isolation, discrimination, and a sense of not belonging can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and anxiety. The lack of a support system and a familiar community can further compound mental health struggles, making it crucial for mental health professionals to address the unique socio-cultural aspects of their experiences.

Knowing what these obstacles cost emotionally and mentally, Dr. Abe Gebeyehu, leads his community through them—and you can too.

Dr. Abe Gebeyehu is a school-based Mental Health Therapist at Kofi Services, a Wilder Foundation organization in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, where he is considered a mental health pioneer in the local community. His is a story of what it means to be a leader in his field, and how other community leaders can be empowered to normalize mental health in immigrant communities.

Kofi Services is a culturally specific, school-based mental health program for African-American youth in grades 2 through 8 and their families who are experiencing difficulty in school, personal relationships, or other areas of their lives.

“I’ve worked in mental health for the past five years in Saint Paul, where I live,” Dr. Gebeyehu says. “I work with children and families of African heritage at school, at home, and community. I’ve worked with people who have gone through severe mental health crises, struggled with family adjustment, and endured trauma.”

When meeting his client’s needs, Dr. Gebeyehu believes in taking a patient-centric approach with a structural treatment focus. “I visit families where they are and bring in other resources when further services are required, acting as a connection between the school and the family, supporting when obstacles to achievement occur.”

Dr. Gebeyehu also maintains that it is crucial to attentively address mental health issues in communities comprised of those of African heritage, whether or not they are new arrivals. That said, the challenges that new African immigrants face, coupled with a scarcity of mental health professionals who understand the cultural nuances and practical problems faced by people in these communities continue to present challenges, both to clinicians and immigrant populations.

“By not discussing mental health,” Gebeyehu says, “we contribute to the stigma that surrounds it. Some of the negative consequences of stigma include discrimination and a lack of understanding from family, friends, coworkers, or others. When we promote mental health, we help people improve their health and well-being, develop positive self-esteem, and become valued and contributing members of their communities.” Promoting mental health education and resources also helps people build resiliency, he says, allowing people to cope better with life’s adversities.

“From my perspective and philosophy,” he says, “culture is mental health because cultural awareness promotes successful communication, social integration, and the development of solid therapeutic alliances with clients. Embracing cultural differences enriches the therapy experience, improves patient outcomes, and lowers the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Working cooperatively to understand and respect cultural ideas and values can help mental health professionals create a more inclusive and supportive mental health landscape for everyone.”

Dr. Gebeyehu also stresses the importance of cultural knowledge in healing mental health issues, something that has become of increasing concern in the industry, particularly with regard to immigrant communities.

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Supporting individuals throughout their most difficult times, ARMHS not only addresses mental health issues, but also the cultural challenges faced within immigrant communities in the Twin Cities area. Click here if you or a loved one would like to be connected with our dedicated team of professionals to learn more about achieving greater independence and a more fulfilling life.