About this episode

The episode explores how systemic trauma influences relationships, particularly for marginalized couples, and discusses the need for therapy to address social systems.

What if your relationship struggles aren’t just personal—but shaped by the systems you live in? Akilah Riley Richardson returns to explore how systemic trauma quietly shapes our relationships, nervous systems, and sense of self. Drawing from her work with marginalized couples, she introduces the concept of relational privilege and explains why healing cannot be separated from the social systems we live in. Together, Akilah and Sue challenge traditional Western therapy models, discuss the importance of “responsible externalizing,” and explore how therapists can create space for grief, imagination, and genuine connection instead of trying to fix what cannot simply be solved. “The experiences of marginalized people are often devalued even by helping professionals, and this text is my dedication to carving a space where we, as practitioners, can ensure that we are of service in a way that is rooted in the realities of our people. It is also a reflection of my obligation to marginalized couples and individuals. My sincere wish for them all is that they are never harmed in therapy but instead uplifted. ” – Akilah Riley-Richardson Time Stamps for The…

People in this episode

Hosts: Sue Marriott LCSW, Ann Kelley PhD

Guest: Akilah Riley-Richardson

Topics covered

• systemic trauma
• relationships
• marginalized couples
• relational privilege
• therapy models
• social systems

Keywords

• systemic trauma
• marginalized couples
• relational privilege
• therapy
• social systems
• healing
• responsible externalizing

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