Black History Month: Lennox Thomas

This Black History Month, we’re celebrating the life and legacy of Lennox Thomas, a pioneering psychotherapist who was instrumental in shaping Nafsiyat and the field of intercultural therapy. Originally from Grenada, Lennox joined Nafsiyat in 1982, working alongside Jafar Kareem and helping to develop the Intercultural Psychotherapy model. At a time when the focus in psychotherapy was primarily on the inner world, Lennox boldly addressed the profound impact of social, political, and economic issues on Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic, and Refugee communities. In 1992, after Jafar Kareem's passing, Lennox became Nafsiyat’s Clinical Director, leading the organisation with wisdom, passion, and dedication. Lennox’s contributions were vast, from writing influential works like his chapter on ‘Racism and Psychotherapy’ to co-directing the first MSc in Intercultural Psychotherapy at University College London. His innovative concept of the ‘proxy self’ continues to shape the understanding of how race and identity influence therapy. Though he left Nafsiyat in 1999 to found the Refugee Therapy Centre, Lennox’s deep connection to our organisation remained strong. His legacy lives on through his writings, teachings, and the countless professionals he mentored. Lennox was a trailblazer, a compassionate clinician, and a cherished member of the Nafsiyat family.

He will be deeply missed, but his impact will continue to guide us.