USM Counseling Services Diversity Statement
USM Counseling Services is sensitive and committed to intercultural diversity, inclusion and social justice and examining the impact of systemic and historical issues of power, privilege and access to resources at the individual, the institutional and structural levels. We are committed to an active process of critical thinking and self-reflection to ensure that all students are treated fairly and competently.
Our service and training missions strive to create environments that staff and clients alike are treated with respect and valued across all differences. Thus, our policies, procedures, activities, relationships, and interactions with individuals and groups in the campus community are consistent with these values. Discrimination and harassment are not tolerated at Counseling Services. The hiring of staff and selection of interns and fellows are consistent with the University Affirmative Action Guidelines.
If you have observed or experienced an incident of bias or hate, discrimination and/or harassment, please report the incident to the Deputy Title IX Coordinator Dr. Sarah Holmes at USM.TitleIX@maine.edu or (207) 780-5767.
Becoming An Ally
Educate yourself about the experience of individuals who have marginalized identities, examine your own identity and biases, and learn to act in ways that contribute to increased safety and wellness for all, instead of creating further harm. “When one suffers, we all suffer.” – Gandhi
Recommended Resources
Scene on Radio is a podcast that tells stories exploring human experience and American society. In this episode, the concept of whiteness is explored – where it comes from, what it means and what it has been used for: Scene On Radio Podcast’s Season 2: “Seeing White”
103 Things White People Can Do for Racial Justice
14 Organizations and People Working to Support BIPOC Mental Health During the Coronavirus Crisis
Five Ways To Support Multiracial People
A Guide to being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Youth: This resource shares why it can be tough for transgender and nonbinary people to bear the burden of educating others about their lived experience. This guide was created to help your education on the basics of gender identity and expression. You’ll be able to better support the trans and nonbinary folks in your lives, and help to create a safer, kinder and more accepting world.
Understanding Non Binary People
Achieving Health Equity: Why it Matters and How to Take Action – Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
Education & Resources: BIPOC
For members of the BIPOC community, you can find a full organized list of compiled resources here. Resources below include those that may also be applicable or of interest to allies:
Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic and Sexual Minority Boys and Men Report by the American Psychiatric Association
44 Mental Health Resources For Black People Trying to Survive in this Country
Black Lives Matter Meditations
Talk Space #Black Lives Matter
Black Emotional & Mental Health Collective (BEAM) Tool Kits and Resources
National Queer & Trans Therapists of Color Network: Advancing healing justice by transforming mental health for Queer & Trans POC)
Sista Ayfa: This organization provides mental health and wellness education and support for Black Women
Unapologetically Us: Online community support for Black women
Black Men Heal: Mental health services and support for Black men
Therapy for Black Men.Org: An online resource and support for Black men
Asian Mental Health Project: This site aims to educate and empower individuals from Asian communities in seeking mental healthcare
Behavioral Health Division of the Indian Health Service: The Federal health program for American Indians and Alaska Natives
We R Native: For Native Youth, by Native Youth – Maintaining A Balance
One Sky Center: The American Indian/Alaska Native National Resource Center for health, education and research
Education & Resources: LGTBQIA+
For members of the LGTBQIA+ community, you can find a full organized list of compiled resources here. Resources below include those that may also be applicable or of interest to allies.
Mental Health Disparities: LGBTQ: Report and population fact sheet from the American Psychiatric Association
LGBT Behavioral Health National and Regional Resources: This is a comprehensive guide to National and Regional resources compiled by the United States Health and Human Services LGTB Issues Coordinating Committee (SAMHSA).
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Health: This page offers resources from the CDC, other government agencies, and community organizations for LGBT Youth, their friends, educators, parents, and family members to support positive environments.
Trans 101: Trans 101 is a starter pack designed to help support trans people around you! It’s all about helping people better understand what it means to be trans, and how to make the world a better, safer, happier place for trans and gender diverse people!
Center of Excellence for Transgender Health: UCSF’s Center of Excellence for Transgender Health (Trans CoE) was founded in 2009 with a mission to increase access to comprehensive, effective, and affirming health care services for transgender and gender diverse communities.
GLADD: GLAAD rewrites the script for LGBTQ acceptance. As a dynamic media force, GLAAD tackles tough issues to shape the narrative and provoke dialogue that leads to cultural change.
National LGBTQ Task Force: For advocacy and community involvement resources.
Gender Diversity: Resources and assistance for those exploring their gender identity.
Gender Resources for Parents
Trans 101 – Parent and Family Resources