Using Hip-Hop and Spoken Word in Counseling Practice
Program Description: The purpose of this webinar is to detail the theoretical tenants, and practical strategies, associated with Hip-Hop and Spoken Word Therapy (HHSWT) - a counseling process wherein youth write, record, and perform emotionally-themed lyrics. HHSWT positions itself as a culturally responsive approach to counseling that aids clients in telling their stories, in their own ways, for their own purposes. A line of research suggests using hip-hop in the counseling process can support the evocation and exploration of difficult thoughts and feelings and can produce positive client outcomes (such as the development of coping skills, and decreases in anxiety, stress, and depressive levels). As a relational tool HHSWT builds on humanistic concepts, including irreducibility at the core of the counseling relationship, offering clients an authentic platform to discuss the complexities of their lived experiences and identities. Participants in this webinar will not only become privy to these theoretical aspects of HHSWT, but of the tangible ways in which they can use hip-hop towards developing real relationships and healing.
Objectives:
Participants will learn about the theoretical underpinnings of HHSWT from a humanistic perspective
Participants will practice using HHSWT strategies
Participants will understand how the use of HHSWT can foster authentic relationships with clients
Presenters: Ian Levy, Ph.D.
Presenter Bios:
Dr. Ian Levy is an Assistant Professor of School Counseling at Manhattan College, New York City native, former High School counselor, and the Vice President of Counselor Educators for the New York State School Counselor’s association. His research interests include the examination of mental health practices in urban schools, which entails exploring the effective use of the school counselor and other school staff to support the emotional lives of young people. Most notably, Dr. Levy piloted the development, implementation, and evaluation of a Hip-Hop based counseling framework. His work has been featured on various news outlets including the New York Times, and CNN, and published a variety of reputable academic journals. In 2016 he was named the New York State School Counselor of the Year. Ian is the author of the HipHopEd: The Compilation on Hip-Hop Education, Volumes 2 & 3. Ian is also an emcee, and released his album – And Then It Glistens – in 2020.