Our Mission
The Intersectional Wellbeing Lab is dedicated to advancing the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ and (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, and other non-heteronormative and non-cisnormative identities) BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities through rigorous and compassionate psychological research. We are committed to addressing the unique challenges, disparities, and strengths within these communities, with the ultimate goal of promoting inclusivity, equity, and positive mental health outcomes.
Our mission is built on three core principles:
Research Excellence
We conduct cutting-edge research that delves into the multifaceted aspects of the psychological well-being of LGBTQ+ and BIPOC individuals. Our work is grounded in scientific rigor, ethical integrity, and a commitment to producing high-quality evidence that informs policy and practice.
Cultural Competence
We recognize the importance of cultural competence in understanding the diverse experiences and identities within LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. Our lab fosters an inclusive environment that values and respects the richness of these diverse backgrounds. We actively engage with community stakeholders to ensure that our research aligns with real-world needs and concerns.
Advocacy and Outreach
We are dedicated to translating our research findings into actionable recommendations and interventions that positively impact the lives of LGBTQ+ and BIPOC individuals. Through collaboration with community organizations, healthcare providers, and policymakers, we aim to promote social justice, reduce disparities, and foster a society where all individuals can thrive.
At the Intersectional Wellbeing Lab, we believe that by understanding and addressing the psychological factors that influence the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, we can contribute to a more inclusive, equitable, and resilient society. Through our commitment to research, cultural competence, and advocacy, we strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.
Research Aims
The aim of our the Intersectional Wellbeing Lab is to investigate, understand, and ultimately enhance the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. Through interdisciplinary research endeavors, we seek to achieve the following overarching objectives:
- Identify Disparities: Our primary aim is to identify and elucidate the disparities in mental health and overall well-being experienced by LGBTQ+ and BIPOC individuals. We endeavor to pinpoint the root causes of these disparities, acknowledging the intersectionality of multiple identities, including race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, and socioeconomic status.
- Uncover Protective Factors: We aim to explore and highlight the protective factors and resilience mechanisms that promote positive health outcomes within LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. This involves recognizing and amplifying the strengths, coping strategies, and support systems that contribute to the well-being of individuals within these communities.
- Influence Policy and Practice: We strive to actively engage with policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations to inform and influence policies and practices that impact the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. By translating our research into actionable recommendations, we aim to contribute to the creation of more equitable and inclusive systems of care and support.
- Promote Social Justice: Our ultimate aim is to contribute to the broader social justice movement by advocating for equal rights, opportunities, and access to resources for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or racial background. We aspire to be a catalyst for positive change in society by addressing systemic inequalities and fostering a culture of acceptance and inclusion.
Through these research aims, our psychology lab is dedicated to advancing the scientific understanding of health and well-being within LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, while actively working towards improving the lives of those we serve.
Upcoming Events
We are excited to soon announce a series of upcoming events hosted by our psychology research lab, dedicated to advancing the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. These events are designed to foster dialogue, knowledge sharing, and community engagement, and we invite you to join us in these meaningful endeavors.
Until these events are created, we encourage anyone interested in the Intersectional Wellbeing Lab to come connect with us. We will be attending or presenting at these upcoming conferences:
National Multicultural Conference and Summit
January 18-19, 2024 in Santa Fe, NM
Conference Link: https://www.multiculturalsummit.org/
American Psychological Association (APA) Convention
August 8-10, 2024 in Seattle, WA
Conference Link: https://convention.apa.org/attend/future-conventions
Opportunities
Are you passionate about promoting the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, and other non-heteronormative identities) and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities? Do you aspire to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to making a positive impact through psychological research? If so, we invite you to explore the exciting opportunities available to join our psychology research lab.
At the Intersectional Wellbeing Lab, we believe that diverse perspectives and lived experiences enrich our research and strengthen our mission. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment where individuals from all backgrounds are welcomed and valued. Here are some ways you can get involved:
- Volunteer Research Assistantships: Join our team as a volunteer research assistant and actively contribute to ongoing research projects. As a research assistant, you will gain hands-on experience in data collection, analysis, and interpretation, all while working alongside experienced researchers. We welcome research undergraduate, masters, and doctoral student assistants.
- Doctoral Student Opportunities: If you are interested in pursuing doctoral studies in Counseling Psychology at the University of North Texas, please consider joining our lab. Our lab offers mentorship, resources, and a supportive community to help you succeed in your academic journey. As an enrolled student in the UNT Counseling Program and a member of the Intersectional Wellbeing Lab, you will receive 5-6 years of mentorship and support in conducting research and advocacy for LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. Please refer to the UNT Counseling Psychology program website for more information about applying to the program and our generous support for research assistantship funding and tuition.
- Community Engagement: If you are a community advocate, activist, or healthcare professional passionate about LGBTQ+ and BIPOC issues, collaborate with us on community-driven research projects and advocacy efforts. Your expertise and perspective are invaluable in driving positive change.
- Collaborative Research: If you are a researcher or scholar with expertise in related fields, consider collaborating with us on interdisciplinary research projects. Together, we can address complex issues affecting marginalized communities more comprehensively.
To explore these opportunities or express your interest in joining the Intersectional Wellbeing Lab, please contact our lab principle investigator, Dr. Kiet Huynh (Kiet.Huynh@unt.edu). We look forward to working together to create meaningful and lasting impacts on the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.
Intersectional Wellbeing Lab 