Changing Lives: Rasheen Powell's Mission to Redefine Mental Health in Buffalo
By Eric Perry
Rasheen Powell
In a world where many people suffer in silence, Rasheen Powell shines as a guiding light, helping others heal and regain hope in Buffalo, New York. With more than 25 years as a licensed clinical social worker, Powell is deeply committed to supporting youth and breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health. His journey started in Buffalo, a city struggling with issues like drug abuse, violence, and family problems, but he has turned these challenges into a mission of resilience and purpose.
Buffalo is a city filled with contrasts, where many residents face mental health struggles due to challenging economic conditions. Powell has seen this firsthand, saying, "I saw a lot of people doing pretty well for themselves, and I saw some people struggling." This gap motivated him to change the narrative and pursue a career in social work, allowing him to turn his own experiences into something meaningful for others.
With years of experience in public schools and prisons, Powell understands how unresolved trauma can lead to ongoing behavior problems. Research shows that 60% of adults have faced at least one traumatic event in their lives (National Council for Behavioral Health, 2020). Beneath the tough exterior of many young men, there are vulnerable individuals grappling with pain. "When you start pulling back all the defense mechanisms... you'll see it's a hurt little boy who is just missing something or someone," he explains. This deep understanding of human emotion shapes the way he approaches counseling.
New Purpose Counseling PLC: A Place for Healing
At the core of Powell's work is New Purpose Counseling PLC, a practice he started in 2018. Here, he and his passionate team use a holistic, trauma-informed approach that focuses on uncovering the root causes of pain instead of just treating the symptoms. By addressing these underlying problems, they help people break free from harmful cycles and rediscover their strength.
According to a report from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA, 2021), trauma-informed care can greatly improve the lives of those struggling with mental health issues. By focusing on the reasons behind pain, Powell’s practice offers hope and empowerment, helping clients reclaim their lives.
Powell’s vision goes beyond therapy; he is launching the PBM (Positive Black Men) Foundation, which aims to uplift Buffalo's youth through mentorship and wellness programs. "We got to help ourselves, man. If you don't help yourself, ain't nobody else going to come help you," he passionately asserts. This foundation reflects Powell's dedication to fostering resilience within his community and highlights the importance of self-empowerment in healing.
Powell's own experiences with abandonment and family issues drive his commitment to this work. “My own pain comes from my abandonment issues, biological father type stuff. And I didn't realize how it affected me throughout my life,” he shares. Through counseling, prayer, and a supportive network, Powell has learned to confront his own struggles, wisdom he now shares with others.
For over 20 years, Powell has worked in the prison system, helping incarcerated fathers stay connected with their children and providing them with mental health resources. The National Institute of Justice (2019) reports that maintaining family bonds can significantly lower recidivism rates. His partnerships with local organizations, like the CEO Strive program, enhance his impact, offering counseling and mentorship to at-risk youth. “My passion is for life. I'm talking about choosing life. Once you feel the weight off your shoulders, you move differently,” he expresses, showcasing the powerful effects of healing.
As Powell expands his reach through his private practice and the new PBM Foundation, he remains committed to his mission. From individual and couples therapy to support groups for men of all ages, he is determined to eliminate the stigma around mental health and empower the Buffalo community to thrive.
In a city where many people carry the weight of trauma in silence, Rasheen Powell’s work offers a path to healing, resilience, and renewed hope. Through his dedication and compassion, he is not only changing lives but also reshaping the conversation about mental health in Buffalo, proving that one person can truly make a difference!
References
1. National Council for Behavioral Health. (2020). Trauma-Informed Care: A Guide for the Behavioral Health Workforce. Retrieved from https://www.thenationalcouncil.org
2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2021). Trauma-Informed Care in Behavioral Health Services. Retrieved from https://store.samhsa.gov
3. National Institute of Justice. (2019). The Importance of Family Ties. Retrieved from https://nij.ojp.gov