STUDENT HIGHLIGHTS
Tyesha Butler, Nashville MSSW and GRA student, was recently selected for the 2021 CSWE Masters’ Minority Fellowship program (MFP). The Master’s MFP is a program designed to enhance the training of full-time, master’s-level, direct practice-focused social work students in their final year of study at a CSWE-accredited institution. As a fellow, Butler plans to work with the African American community to help dispel the stigma of going to therapy and shape how mental health is viewed. “While in graduate school, I first chose field placements where I could be intentional about serving marginalized groups,” she explained. “During my first placement I worked at Raphah Institute, which is a restorative justice diversion program, where I served youth impacted by the justice system. The restorative justice work done here provides an opportunity to, ‘confront the root causes of societal harm, take a uniquely crafted approach, and see transformative healing for all.’ I helped youth reimagine a better future for themselves through home visits when youth were in crisis and circle facilitation. Currently, I am interning at a charter school and learning a lot about the needs of youth in an academic setting. Working in the school system I get the opportunity to meet students at all of their intersections and am able to address specific relational, emotional, and academic needs that young people face.” As she looks toward graduation this spring, Butler is looking for opportunities to work where she can continue to serve communities that look like her. “At the end of my fellowship I hope to have gained a better understanding of what it means to work towards cultural humility, so much so that it is a framework of practice,” she said. “I also am eager to be on the contributing end of aiding in reducing mental health disparities in racial and ethnic populations through accessible therapy and other mental health services. I have already gained so much knowledge from staff, faculty and community members that support this fellowship, that I know I will be gleaning from their wisdom for many years to come.”
TYESHA BUTLER
