Mark A Bolden

Mark A. Bolden serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Counseling and Psychological Studies at Bowie State University, specializing in culturally grounded psychological frameworks for African diaspora communities. His work bridges clinical practice with liberation psychology to address systemic inequities.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, Howard University (2008)
• M.A. in Counseling Psychology, Seton Hall University (2001)
• B.A. in Psychology, Seton Hall University (1996)

Dr. Bolden's research centers on African-Centered Counseling and its applications for addressing Coping and Stress through Spirituality-integrated approaches. His scholarship examines Psychohistory and Systems Theory to unpack colonial legacies in mental health, emphasizing Psychological Outcomes in Black communities. This work manifests in community-based healing initiatives and critical analyses of power structures.

His publications reveal consistent focus on decolonizing psychology through studies of internalized colonialism in Ghana and critiques of industrial complexes using Fanonian theory. These contributions advance Black Psychology and Pan-African Liberation frameworks, highlighting intersections of mental health with sociopolitical contexts.

Scientific Awards:

• Frances Cress Welsing Clinical Practitioner Award (2017)

As Co-Advisor for the African Psychological Student Association, Dr. Bolden mentors emerging scholars in culturally responsive methodologies. His professional engagements span the Association of Black Psychologists and Maryland Counselors for Social Justice, reflecting commitment to multicultural counseling and social justice advocacy. Prior clinical roles at Ascensions Psychological Services and the Center for Multicultural Training ground his academic work in community practice.

His presentations on Black men's mental health and Wakandan-inspired father-son relationships demonstrate applied translation of theoretical frameworks into community healing contexts.