Black Women on the Couch Panel Event at City St George's

Join us for the official in-person launch of Black Women on the Couch, a groundbreaking new initiative dedicated to amplifying the voices, stories, and wellbeing of Black women in the UK. Developed and hosted by Rotimi Akinsete, this in-person panel event brings together Black women in powerful conversations exploring identity, healing, and resilience.

Building on the success of Black Men on the Couch (BMOTC), a nationally recognised programme that has, for over a decade, brought Black men’s mental health and lived experiences into the public sphere, BWOTC extends this vision by centring Black women. At the heart of the project are powerful public conversations between Black female psychotherapists and high-profile Black women, creating a unique space for honest dialogue about identity, resilience, healing, and hope. Rooted in the values of community, sisterhood, and care, these live sessions will explore how therapy can act as a transformative tool—supporting self-reflection, professional growth, and navigating the complexities of relationships, whether with ourselves, our families, our communities, or in wider society.

The event will feature a panel discussion with inspiring speakers who will share their insights and experiences. Panelists include:

• Professor Jessica Jones Nielsen, Assistant Vice President for Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), who led the University’s successful attainment of the Race Equality Charter Mark.
• Helen P. George, Psychotherapist and author of the recently published book 'Black Women, Trauma and Therapy'.
• Dr Ohemaa Nkansa-Dwamena, Associate Professor in the School of Health and Medical Sciences at City St George's and a Counselling Psychologist.

Launching during Black Futures Month at City St George’s, Black Women on the Couch embodies this year’s theme of ‘Standing Firm in Pride and Power’ by creating space for Black women to speak openly and unapologetically. Whether you are a student, member of staff, or part of the wider public, this event invites you to witness, reflect, and be inspired. By attending, you’ll be part of a powerful call to rethink the role of therapy in Black women’s lives and to recognise its potential to drive meaningful social change.

Refreshments will be provided. Limited tickets are available, so reserve your spot today.

If you have accessibility requirements, please contact [email protected].

Please be advised that this event will include discussions by speakers that will explore sensitive themes, including mental health challenges, wellbeing, grief, loss and trauma. We acknowledge these topics can be distressing, and encourage attendees to practice self-care throughout and after the event. Support resources will be shared following the event.

Please read our Terms and Conditions of attending public events at City St George's.

Info: The event will begin with time for arrivals and informal networking.

Info: The event will open with a brief introduction, followed by an inspiring, therapy-style panel conversation. We’ll close the session with a Q&A, offering space for attendee questions and shared reflections.

Info: The event will conclude with closing remarks, followed by an opportunity to network and connect over refreshments.

Host or Publisher Office for Institutional Equity and Inclusion