
Sakiera Malone
LISW, LCSW
Presenter's Bio:
Sakiera Malone is a dedicated social worker and psychotherapist with four years of experience in the mental health field. She is an International Certified Gambling Counselor and a licensed independent chemical dependency counselor, specializing in the treatment of adults across various mental health clinics. Her professional interests include women's sexual health, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and addiction. Sakiera is committed to fostering a supportive environment where her clients can achieve healing and growth.
Empowering African American Women: Combating Problem Gambling Through Education and Interventions
Course Summary:
In recent years, the glitzy allure of casinos and online gambling platforms has captivated millions, yet beneath this shimmering surface lies a stark reality: gambling disorders are often overlooked, particularly within marginalized communities. Surprisingly, research indicates that African American women are among the most vulnerable yet least understood demographics affected by gambling disorders. Despite the growing prevalence of gambling in diverse communities, these women remain on the fringes of both public awareness and clinical diagnosis, rendering them invisible in discussions surrounding addiction and mental health. This session aims to illuminate the unique experiences of African American women about gambling disorders, shedding light on the insufficient research and diagnostic biases that perpetuate their marginalization. By exploring the links between gambling behavior, socioeconomic factors, and mental health, we seek to advocate for a comprehensive understanding and tailored interventions that address the specific needs of this underserved population. It is imperative mental health professionals recognize the complexities surrounding gambling disorders among overlooked populations and advocate for equity in diagnosis, treatment, and research—because only by confronting these disparities can we begin to foster healing and recovery in a community often relegated to silence.
