Black Men’s Mental Health & The Power Of A Dope Haircut: “The Therapist” Shines a Spotlight on BlackMen’s Mental Well-being and the Healing Power of Barbershops

Filmmaker Akwasi Poku presents a powerful and thought-provoking short film ‘The Therapist’ a poignant exploration of black men’s mental health and the often-overlooked role that barbershops play in providing a space for restoration and healing.

‘The Therapist’ takes viewers on a compelling journey into the lives of black men as they navigate the complexities of mental health. Through an intimate, authentic & relatable story, director Akwasi Poku skilfully captures the nuances that The Therapist (played by Ash Barba) & his client Jaydon (played by Brett Curtis) experience on a day to day basis, highlighting both the struggles they face and the healing powers of a simple conversation & amazing haircut.

The film unfolds within the vibrant backdrop of a barbershop, where candid conversations and genuine connections serve as a therapeutic outlet for the characters. Against the backdrop of clippers and camaraderie, the film explores the emotional landscapes of its characters, showcasing how the barbershop becomes a sanctuary for black men to discuss the issues that are on their minds both openly and honestly.

Akwasi Poku, the visionary behind the film, remarked, “I wanted to highlight the unique role barbershops play in the lives of Black Men not only in the UK, but across the globe. These spaces are more than just places for haircuts; they are essential community hubs where we find support, understanding, and healing.”

This film is a testament to the strength of community bonds and the importance of destigmatising conversations around mental health, especially within the black male community,” added Poku.

The Therapist is available on Vimeo HERE and also available to stream on Minute Shorts on this link HERE