April Duncan

Dr. April Duncan (DSW, LCSW, RPT-S) is an Adjunct Instructor in the online MSW program at Tulane University's School of Social Work. She is a recognized racial trauma expert and advocate for the mental health of Black children. Dr. Duncan founded BMH Connect, an organization dedicated to empowering Black youth through play therapy, and serves on the advisory board of the World Association of Sand Therapy Professionals.

• Doctorate in Social Work, University of Southern California (2021)
• Masters of Social Work, Saint Louis University (2012)
• Bachelor’s in Arts & Science, University of Missouri-Columbia (2006)

Dr. Duncan’s research and practice focus on addressing racial trauma in Black students through culturally responsive, play-based interventions. Her expertise includes trauma-informed care, equity in education and mental health, child advocacy, and racial healing. She emphasizes the importance of allowing Black children to experience childhood through nurturing and culturally affirming practices.

Her recent publications center on innovative play therapy techniques to support Black youth experiencing racial trauma. The works explore racial bias in school discipline, culturally competent assessment, and strategies to help Black children reclaim their childhood. These contributions reflect a strong thematic focus on dismantling systemic inequities and promoting healing through expressive therapies.

• Black Kids Matter: Play-Based Strategies to Support Black Students Experiencing Racial Trauma (2024)
• Race-based assessment, diagnosis and treatment planning with Black children and families (2024)
• Reclaiming Black childhood: Honoring cultural expressions in Black children & families (2024)

Dr. Duncan has over a decade of clinical experience working with schools, juvenile justice, and child welfare systems. She provides consultation, professional development, clinical supervision, and corporate diversity training. She is also a public speaker and author, actively contributing to the advancement of culturally competent mental health practices.

She is involved with BMH Connect and the World Association of Sand Therapy Professionals, where she contributes to training and policy guidance in play therapy. Her work bridges clinical practice, education, and advocacy to create sustainable empowerment for Black youth and their families.