Reflecting on the Inaugural Mental Health and Cultural Competence Symposium at Sea

Hosting the first annual Mental Health and Cultural Competency Symposium at Sea was an incredible honor—and we’re still riding the wave of inspiration it created!

I think I speak for everyone on board when I say we were profoundly moved by the energy, vulnerability, and brilliance each presenter brought to the table. Our time aboard the Carnival Glory was filled with powerful conversations, healing laughter, and a shared commitment to advancing our field with heart, integrity, and purpose.

We explored timely and essential topics, including:

• Court Is Now in Session: Ethical & Legal Challenges in the Counseling Profession

• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & The Multigenerational Impact on the Workplace

• Racial Battle Fatigue: Are We Surviving or Thriving?

• The Cultural Impact of Television on the Perception of Mental Health

• The Power of Civility in the Clinical Workplace: Let’s Change the Conversation

• Two Guncles Guide to Queer Representation

At a time when so many are feeling overwhelmed and under-supported, this symposium reminded us that we are not alone. Community, compassion, and culturally competent care do make a difference—and spaces like this are more important than ever.

Thank you to every attendee, speaker, and supporter who made this inaugural voyage a success. We're already looking ahead to next year. Let’s keep growing, together.