Photovoice: Conducting Community-Based Participatory Research and Advocacy in Mental Health

Abstract

AbstractIndividuals with mental health needs experience stigma, prejudice, discrimination, and social isolation. Photovoice, an advocacy and participatory action research method based on the principles of community-based participatory research, offers a creative approach to genuinely engage the voices and expertise of people intimately involved in the mental health system. This article offers strategic planning steps and detailed curriculum stages to develop and facilitate photovoice groups within mental health settings.KEYWORDS: photovoiceparticipatory action researchcommunity-based participatory researchadvocacymental healthcreativity in counseling Additional informationNotes on contributorsKent BeckerKent Becker is an Associate Professor of Counseling in the Department of Professional Studies at the University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming.Mark ReiserMark Reiser is an Academic Advisor - Recruitment & Retention Specialist at the University of Montana, Missoula, Montana.Serena LambertSerena Lambert is faculty with the Harold Abel School of Social and Behavioral Sciences in the Department of Counseling at Capella University, Louisville, Colorado.Christin CovelloChristin Covello is an Associate Clinical Director at Saint Joseph's Children's Home, Torrington, Wyoming.