Scholar-Activist | Counseling Psychology Ph.D. Student | Champion for Health Equity
Addressing how Racism and Discrimination Impacts the Health of Our Community
Ty is a health equity researcher and counseling psychology doctoral student who is committed to reducing health inequities and disparities. Using a policy-focused approach, his research centers on the intersectionality of race and sexuality among Black and Black LGBTQ+ adolescents and adults, and their experiences of racism, discrimination, and heterosexism. Specifically, how systemic and interpersonal racism and discrimination impact the health and well-being of these communities (e.g., substance use, racial trauma, and suicidality). Ty is also interested in understanding community protective factors that enhance well-being and promote community liberation and healing.
Systemic Racism and Everyday Discrimination Can Have a Significant Impact on Our Health
My mission is to turn research into action; creating policy changes, reducing health disparities, and providing opportunities for healing and liberation. To do so, I must challenge systems, center community voices, and create pathways toward lasting health equity and well-being.
Recent Publication
Taylor, T. O., Smith, N. C., Robinson, T. A., & Wood, K. D. (2025). Racism and health: Examining pathways influencing health outcomes among justice-involved and nonjustice-involved Black and Latine individuals.Journal of Counseling Psychology. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1037/cou0000843
Racism is a major public health concern that negatively affects both mental and behavioral health. This study examined how experiences of racism impact Black and Latine people with criminal legal system involvement, a group that faces multiple layers of disadvantage. Findings suggest that racism can harm health through emotional, cognitive, and physiological pathways, contributing to poorer health outcomes, especially for justice-involved populations. Together, the results point to the urgent need for interventions and policies that address racism to improve health and promote equity.
BU Wheelock Honors 2024 Alumni Award Recipients
Young Alumni Award | Ty A. Robinson (Wheelock’22)
Ty A. Robinson is a graduate of the EdM in Counseling program at BU Wheelock, where he founded and led the Counselors of Color in Training Organization (COCITO). This organization aimed to foster community, restoration, and clinical growth for students of color in the program.