Mission Statement

Guided by the spirit of Ubuntu—"I am because we are"—the mission of Addiction Counseling with Ubuntu, a division of the National Association of Black Counselors (NABC), is to eliminate the stigma surrounding addiction in Black communities through culturally responsive, evidence-informed counseling and care.

We are committed to promoting both individual and collective empowerment by ensuring equitable access to integrated tools, resources, and services that address the complex intersections of addiction, mental health challenges, systemic racism, poverty, and trauma. Recognizing that healing happens in relationships and community, we center connection, compassion, and cultural relevance in everything we do.

As a proud division of NABC, we champion the leadership, development, and well-being of Black counselors by advocating for transformative professional training, prevention strategies, harm reduction, and community-driven approaches. We uphold the dignity, agency, and resilience of Black individuals impacted by addiction  challenges—working together toward a just, inclusive, and liberatory system of care for all.

Vision Statement

Rooted in the spirit of Ubuntu—"I am because we are"—our vision is a future where Black communities across the nation experience true healing, wellness, and liberation from the burdens of addiction challenges. We believe that individual well-being is inseparable from collective care, and that our strength lies in our interconnectedness.

We strive to improve the quality of Black lives by cultivating a strong, empowered network of Black clinicians—fostering a supportive, affirming space where they can learn, thrive, and lead transformative change. Guided by the values of community, compassion, and shared humanity, we work toward a world where every Black person feels seen, supported, and whole.

Core Values

• Culturally Responsive Care: Recognizing and addressing the unique needs of Black individuals through a culturally aware approach to counseling and addiction treatment. Utilizing the philosophy of Ubuntu

• Empowerment: Supporting the autonomy and agency of Black individuals by providing resources and tools that promote resilience and long-term recovery.

• Collaboration: Building a network of Black counselors and mental health professionals committed to advocating for change and creating supportive spaces.

• Community-Centered Approaches: Fostering healing and growth that prioritizes community-driven solutions to addiction and mental health challenges.

• Social Justice: Actively addressing the impact of systemic racism, poverty, and trauma on Black communities, and working to create equitable access to care.

What We Do

The Division ofAddiction Counseling with Ubuntu is dedicated to providing:

• Evidence-Based Training: Equipping Black counselors with tools and strategies to support clients through culturally tailored, scientifically informed counseling practices.

• Advocacy for Change: Championing the need for inclusive and equitable treatment systems that acknowledge the impact of systemic oppression on addiction .

• Community Support: Offering a space for Black clinicians to connect, share knowledge, and create initiatives that will foster recovery in Black communities.

• Prevention and Harm Reduction: Implementing programs that reduce the risk of addiction  struggles through early intervention and ongoing support.

Who Should Join?

The Division ofAddiction Counseling with Ubuntu is designed for anyone passionate about the healing and empowerment of Black communities, especially those who are working or aspiring to work in the fields of addiction counseling,  or social justice. We welcome:

• Black counselors, therapists, and mental health professionals who want to expand their skills and knowledge in culturally responsive, evidence-informed practices.

• Social workers, addiction specialists, and healthcare providers who are committed to addressing the intersections of mental health and addiction in Black communities.

• Graduate students, interns, and trainees who are looking to learn from and collaborate with a network of Black professionals in the addiction counseling field.

• Advocates and community organizers who wish to be part of transformative initiatives that eliminate stigma and provide equitable access to care.

If you're dedicated to improving the lives of Black individuals and communities, we invite you to join us in leading this important work.

Get Involved

Interested in joining the Division of Addiction Counseling with Ubuntu? Become a member of NABC and help us advance the mission to eliminate stigma and create a just system of care for Black communities. Whether you're a counselor, mental health professional, or advocate, we welcome you to join our network and make a difference.