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

Abstract

Individuals 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:

• photovoice
• participatory action research
• community-based participatory research
• advocacy
• mental health
• creativity in counseling

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Kent Becker

Kent Becker is an Associate Professor of Counseling in the Department of Professional Studies at the University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming.

Mark Reiser

Mark Reiser is an Academic Advisor - Recruitment & Retention Specialist at the University of Montana, Missoula, Montana.

Serena Lambert

Serena Lambert is faculty with the Harold Abel School of Social and Behavioral Sciences in the Department of Counseling at Capella University, Louisville, Colorado.

Christin Covello

Christin Covello is an Associate Clinical Director at Saint Joseph’s Children’s Home, Torrington, Wyoming.