Mental Health Training | Legacy Mental Health PLLC

Dr. Char's Training Approach

Dr. Char uses a model of training she developed called the Bridge Model. The BRIDGE Model for Facilitating Training provides a structured approach to effective learning and skill development.

Building a safe learning environment is a key part of my training. I set clear intentions, establish group norms, and normalize discomfort as part of the learning process.
Reflecting on personal and systemic barriers is another crucial aspect. I encourage participants to explore their biases, discuss societal influences, and analyze real-life case examples.
Introducing and modeling effective techniques is something I prioritize. I teach foundational concepts, demonstrate skills through live or recorded sessions, and encourage observational learning.
Developing practical skills through experiential learning is integral to my sessions. I incorporate role-plays, provide structured feedback, and simulate challenging scenarios.
Guiding reflection and group discussion is also a significant part of my training. I facilitate debriefing sessions, peer discussions, and reflective journaling to help participants process their experiences.
Finally, equipping participants with resources for continued growth is essential. I ensure they have access to practical tools, encourage ongoing practice, and foster a long-term commitment to integrating new skills into their professional work.

Training Programs Offered

Dr. Char offers training on healing racialized trauma, building positive racial identity, implicit bias, culturally responsive mental healthcare, creating inclusive workplaces, and addressing race, ethnicity, and culture in clinical settings. She also conducts trainings around her co-authored book Black Lives Are Beautiful: 50 Tools to Heal from Trauma and Promote Positive Racial Identity. These experiences can be delivered virtually or in person. Dr. Char has worked with universities, healthcare facilities, mental health practices, K-12 school systems, and corporations.

Dr. Char's Experience

Dr. Char is a fully licensed psychologist, professor, appointed member of the Michigan Board of Psychology, and elected member of the American Psychological Association’s Division 45 the Society for Race and Ethnic Studies and Advocacy Coordination Committee. Dr. Newton is also co-author of the book, Black Lives Are Beautiful: 50 Tools to Heal from Trauma and Promote Positive Racial Identity, and author of peer-reviewed articles that feature the Broaching Readiness Framework and the Cross-Racial Training Approach: A Practical Training Framework. In 2022 the Michigan Psychological Association awarded her the Distinguished Psychologist of the Year Award. She has conducted trainings for universities, corporations, private practices, K-12th school districts and national organizations such as the American Psychological Association.