April Duncan (DSW, LCSW, RPT-S) obtained her Bachelor’s in Arts & Science from the University of Missouri-Columbia (2006), Masters of Social Work from Saint Louis University (2012) and Doctorate of Social Work from the University of Southern California (2021). She is the founder of BMH Connect, an organization focused on Black youth empowerment through the use of play therapy.

 

Dr. April is a racial trauma expert and leader in her field in advocating for the mental health needs of Black children. Her book, “Black Students Matter: Play Therapy Techniques to Address Racial Trauma in Black Students” provides an innovative approach to address mental health issues in Black children through the use of play therapy. She also is an adjunct instructor in the online MSW program at Tulane University.

 

With over ten years of clinical experience, Dr. April has worked collaboratively with various stakeholders in schools, the juvenile justice system and the child welfare system, to teach the importance of recognizing and addressing trauma in children from all backgrounds. Dr. April also serves on the advisory board for the World Association of Sand Therapy Professionals.