As we celebrate Women in Medicine Month, it’s essential to shine a light on the contributions and stories of trailblazing women in healthcare. Dr. Cashuna Huddleston, a psychologist dedicated to improving mental health care, especially for underserved communities, exemplifies the resilience, strength, and compassion that women bring to the field of medicine. Her journey into psychology is not only a reflection of her personal experiences but also a testimony to the transformative role that women, especially Black women, play in healthcare today.
Early Journey into Medicine
Currently, Dr. Huddleston holds a Ph.D. in counseling psychology from the University of Houston. She also completed her internship residency at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and a post-doctoral fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine, earning several accolades along the way, including the MLK Dream Award from the 40 Acre Conference and recognition as one of the Top Influential Women of Houston.
Despite these remarkable achievements, Dr. Huddleston’s journey into medicine was rooted in personal discovery and adversity. Growing up, she faced the stigma surrounding mental health in her community, an experience that profoundly shaped her career path.
“I think my own personal journey, started with my early experiences growing up in Mississippi, where mental health was not discussed at all, shaped my practice,” Dr. Huddleston tells BlackDoctor.org. “I can remember being told I was just shy when I was younger, but in reality, I was struggling with more complex feelings. Mental health wasn’t something we talked about, so I didn’t know how to handle it.”
Her understanding deepened when her grandfather was diagnosed with dementia, an experience that fueled her passion for addressing psychological disorders.
“It was a struggle for our family because we didn’t know what to do,” Dr. Huddleston adds of her grandfather’s diagnosis.
This personal connection to mental health was the catalyst for her pursuit of a career in psychology, where she now specializes in treating individuals with complex psychological disorders.
“I was the first in my family to go to college. I thought I wanted to become an attorney, but then I found myself fascinated by psychology, particularly the way it could help explain my family’s experiences, especially with my grandfather’s condition. That’s how I got into this field,” Dr. Huddleston shares.
Navigating Disparities in Mental Health
One of the key disparities Dr. Huddleston has encountered in her work is the limited access to mental health services, especially within the Black community.
“It’s tough to find culturally competent care, especially in mental health. Many Black people don’t seek help because they don’t know how or don’t have the resources. Around 25 percent of Black people seek help for mental health issues, compared to over 40 percent of white people. This disparity highlights the need for more access and education,” Dr. Huddleton adds.
There’s also a cultural component to this, according to Dr. Huddleston. “In many Black communities, mental health isn’t discussed openly. Growing up, people often brought their issues to the church, but there wasn’t a space to talk about the deeper emotional and psychological problems. We need to shift this mindset and create more accessible mental health resources,” she says.
Black Women in Medicine: Breaking Barriers
Reflecting on the powerful impact of Black women in medicine, Dr. Huddleston highlights their resilience and multifaceted contributions to both their communities and the healthcare field.
“Black women are doing extraordinary work… They challenge the stereotype of being the ‘strong Black woman’ while also running their practices, raising families, and taking on leadership roles. They are setting examples for others to follow,” she notes.
Throughout her career, Dr. Huddleston has witnessed how Black women in various fields, including medicine, dentistry, and psychology, have created supportive networks that encourage personal and professional growth.
“One of my colleagues is a dentist. She was able to expand her practice and has been a leader in bringing other Black professionals together. She even started a group where we all come together, support one another, and share insights across various disciplines. It’s been incredibly empowering,” Dr. Huddleston adds.
These networks not only provide emotional and professional support but also serve as a blueprint for younger generations of Black women entering medicine and psychology.
The Importance of Mentorship
Mentorship plays a vital role in shaping future healthcare professionals, and Dr. Huddleston is deeply committed to guiding aspiring doctors and psychologists. She recalls mentoring students who were the first in their families to attend college, much like herself.
“I provide teaching and guidance to students, whether high schoolers, undergraduates, or even people preparing for licensure. It’s important to give back and help others navigate their paths, especially since I didn’t have many resources when I was starting out,” she shares. “I’ve mentored students who reached out to me with questions, and it’s fulfilling to help guide them through their educational journey. It’s not just about providing professional support, but also about helping them grow as individuals.”
Black Female Entrepreneurship in Healthcare
In addition to her contributions to mental health, Dr. Huddleston is a shining example of Black female entrepreneurship in healthcare. Starting her own private practice was no easy feat, but her determination and vision have led to the creation of two successful clinics in Houston.
In her two private practices in Houston, Dr. Huddleston works tirelessly to bridge this gap. Her clinics offer specialized treatments, including individual therapy, group therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and other mental health services for patients of all ages. One practice focuses on providing care for individuals, while the other operates as a group practice, offering a collaborative approach to mental health care.
“Being a Black female entrepreneur in psychology was challenging. I had to figure a lot out on my own, but I eventually got it right. My goal has always been to provide a space where people can live their best lives, understand their drivers, and take control of their mental health,” Dr. Huddleston adds. “Recently, we hosted an event focused on mental health for women, which included teaching relaxation strategies and helping them understand the impact of stress. We’re always looking for ways to innovate and grow.”
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Dr. Huddleston hopes to see more Black women entering psychology and other fields of medicine.
“We are a rare breed, but we need more of us,” she says.”Only about four to six percent of psychologists in the U.S. are Black, which is alarming. Even though psychology programs are rigorous and accredited by the APA, the number of Black professionals entering these fields remains low.”
She envisions a future where Black women are represented across all sectors of healthcare, from psychology to policy-making. “I want to see Black women at every table, leading in every field,” she adds.
Her vision extends beyond just increasing numbers. Dr. Huddleston dreams of a world where mental health is destigmatized, especially in communities of color, and where access to care is no longer a luxury but a right. She is committed to using her platform to advocate for these changes, both through her practice and her mentorship.
“I’d love to see more of us in this field. It’s rare to find Black women in psychology, but we’re needed in so many areas—from working with first responders to finance or even political psychology. There’s so much untapped potential,” she shares. “I hope for a future where there’s more visibility, more Black women in leadership roles, and better access to mental health care.”
Final Thoughts: Advice to Aspiring Women in Medicine
As we celebrate Women in Medicine Month, Dr. Huddleston offers a message of empowerment to women aspiring to enter healthcare. “Do not forget who you are,” she advises. “Stay true to yourself and your vision. You can achieve anything you want. If being a doctor or psychologist is your dream, you can make it happen.”
Her final words are a reminder that the journey to becoming a healthcare professional is challenging but deeply rewarding. “Don’t forget to enjoy the journey and celebrate every step along the way—whether it’s finishing a paper or graduating. Celebrate it all,” she concludes.
