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CRESTSprogram Blog
Welcome to the CRESTSprogram Blog, which advances trauma-informed care through culturally responsive, research-based strategies. Our mission is to bridge the gap between research and practical application, empowering educators, mental health professionals, parents, and communities to support Black children and other youth of color affected by traumatic stress.
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Our blog shares insights on trauma-informed interventions, culturally relevant healing practices, evidence-based research, and real-world applications in clinical, educational, familial, and community settings. We aim to foster meaningful conversations, promote equity in mental health care, and provide resources that enhance resilience and well-being.
Join us as we explore innovative strategies, highlight diverse perspectives, and advocate for inclusive, evidence-based approaches to addressing traumatic stress. Stay informed, engaged, and inspired with the CRESTSprogram Blog.
Facilitating Racial-Cultural Identity Development and High Academic Achievement for Black Boys
Explore how racial-cultural identity development and Afrocentric approaches can support the academic success and emotional well-being of Black boys.
Cirecie West-Olatunji, Ph.D.
Jul 13 min read
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Lifelong Learning: Journey to Decolonize Deepening the Experience - Celebrating Summer!
Summer has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, bringing longer days and radiant light. From Ancient Egypt to Indigenous ceremonies, cultures across time have honored the solstice with rituals of renewal, connection, and nature. This post explores those traditions and invites you to reflect on your own summer practices and how ancestral wisdom can inspire mindful living today.
Kimberlee Bow, Ph.D.
Jun 235 min read
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Reclaiming Our Power: The Sacred Work of Black ParentingÂ
Parenting Black children is an act of love, resistance, and cultural legacy. Explore how to raise them with pride, purpose, and protection.
Cirecie West-Olatunji, Ph.D.
Jun 172 min read
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Reimagining Early Childhood for Black Children
Black children deserve early learning environments that affirm their identity and protect their joy. This blog explores how mental health professionals can shift from deficit-based models to culture-centered care, addressing bias and uplifting Black children from the start.
Cirecie West-Olatunji, Ph.D.
Jun 102 min read
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The Hidden Toll: Understanding Race-Based Stress in the Black Community
Race-based stress isn’t just emotional—it’s embodied, generational, and deeply rooted in systemic injustice. In this powerful piece, Dr. Cirecie West-Olatunji explores how everyday racism manifests in physical and psychological harm, affecting everything from cardiovascular health to childhood development. But amid the pain, there is also resilience. Learn how culturally affirming care, communal healing, and systemic accountability can pave the way toward restoration and libe
Cirecie West-Olatunji, Ph.D.
Jun 32 min read
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Lifelong Learning: Journey to Decolonize: Inviting Grit, Passion, and Perseverance
Decolonizing isn’t easy—it takes grit, purpose, and community. This blog explores what it means to walk the lifelong journey of unlearning, healing, and rebuilding with hope and intention. Discover how grit fuels the fight to decolonize your mind, practice, and purpose.
Kimberlee Bow, Ph.D.
May 274 min read
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The Parent Perspective: Equity, Respect, and Real Engagement
Parent engagement isn’t optional—it’s essential. This blog explores how to truly support and uplift parents as partners, not participants, in education and community programs. Discover what sustainable, respectful engagement really looks like—and why it changes everything.
Sarita Sashington
May 206 min read
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Confronting the Silent Crisis: Adolescent Suicide Through a Culturally Responsive Lens
Adolescent suicide is rising. We must create culturally affirming, connected spaces where all youth feel seen, valued, and supported.
Cirecie West-Olatunji, Ph.D.
May 133 min read
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Helping Students Heal After COVID-19: Culturally Responsive Trauma-Informed Strategies for Educators
Post-pandemic education isn’t just about recovery—it’s about healing. Explore trauma-informed, culturally responsive strategies.
Cirecie West-Olatunji, Ph.D.
May 63 min read
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Mind-Body Connection
Explore the mind-body connection through movement, memory, and mindfulness. A trauma-informed guide to reconnecting with your inner self.
Kimberlee Bow, Ph.D.
Apr 285 min read
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Lifelong Learning: Journey to Decolonize Deepening the Experience - Learning While Leading
What if teaching is a lifelong, intergenerational exchange? Reflecting on learning, mentorship, and the power of staying curious.
Kimberlee Bow, Ph.D.
Apr 234 min read
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Effective Parenting to Address Children’s Mental Health Issues
Raising mentally strong kids takes more than love—it takes cultural awareness, emotional safety & a strong village. Here’s how we can show up.
Cirecie West-Olatunji, Ph.D.
Apr 163 min read
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The Experiences of Black Youth in Predominately White K-12 Schools
Black students at PWIs face isolation & bias—but through mentorship & peer support, they find strength, voice, & belonging.
Tyla Kennedy
Apr 83 min read
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Using Local History to Promote Excellence Among Black Schoolchildren
Teaching local Black history empowers students, boosts identity, and connects them to a legacy of excellence in their own communities.
Cirecie West-Olatunji, Ph.D.
Apr 13 min read
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Lifelong Learning: Journey to Decolonize Deepening the Experience - Celebrating Spring, Connection, and Community!
From Holi to Nowruz, spring traditions celebrate renewal, nature, and culture—reminding us of our deep connections across time and place.
Kimberlee Bow, Ph.D.
Mar 254 min read
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Breaking the Chains: Supporting Black Parents of Incarcerated Youth
Black parents of incarcerated youth face injustice, trauma, and isolation. CRESTSprogram offers support, healing, and a path to justice.
Ebony B. White, Ph.D.
Mar 183 min read
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Integrating Race-Based Stress Interventions in Counseling Black Youth
Black youth face daily racial stress that affects their well-being. Culturally responsive care is essential for healing and empowerment.
Cirecie West-Olatunji, Ph.D.
Mar 113 min read
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The Transformative Power of Restorative Justice for Black Youth
Restorative justice replaces punishment with healing, helping Black students feel seen, supported, and stay connected to their education.
Cirecie West-Olatunji, Ph.D.
Mar 43 min read
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Lifelong Learning: Journey to Decolonize Deepening the Experience - Development and Falling Flat
Decolonizing your work is a journey—like learning to walk, it takes falling, getting up, and embracing the process with self-compassion.
Kimberlee Bow, Ph.D.
Feb 254 min read
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Rooted in Love: Empowering Black Children to Thrive
Rooted in love, resilience, and pride—empowering Black children to know their worth and thrive every day.
CRESTS Program
Feb 182 min read
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