Dr. Afiya Mbilishaka innovated “PsychoHairapy,” using hair as an entry point for mental health services in salons, barbershops, and on social media. She is a therapist, educator, research scientist, hair historian, and hairstylist, and owns Ma’at Psychological Services in Washington, DC.
Leading the PsychoHairapy Research Lab, Dr. Mbilishaka has published extensively and presented widely. As a recognized expert, she has testified before Congress for the CROWN Act, an anti-discrimination law to protect Black hair. Dr. Mbilishaka is also a natural hair stylist at N Natural Hair Studio in Silver Spring, Maryland, where she loves creating art with locs, twists, and afros.
Listen in as we discuss:
- The intersection between mental health and hair care
- Why active listening is important
- The history of hair
- Grief of hair loss
- Why people neglect their hair
- And much more!
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Disclaimer: Consider your individual mental health needs with a licensed medical professional. This content is not medical advice.
