Attaining an MSW from Simmons, reports Bangura, has altered and enhanced his therapeutic approach. Since attending the program, he has added more inclusive spaces, especially for LGBTQ+ youth; integrated more evidence-based mindful practices; expanded trauma-informed modalities and strengths-based family work; and refined his training and administrative skills.
Originally from Sierra Leone, Bangura has also incorporated his extensive background in African hand-drumming into the programming — an idea that blossomed at Simmons.
“I’m now combining clinical theory with my expressive arts side to help heal generational trauma,” he says.
Pursuing an MSW at Simmons
Throughout his nearly 25-year career at the Home for Little Wanderers, Bangura worked with graduates of Simmons Social Work, who praised the program’s comprehensive clinical preparation.
“It was clear that Simmons was the place to be,” he says.
After the residential care program where he worked closed during the COVID-19 pandemic, Bangura decided to finally apply to Simmons himself.
“I wanted that clinically strong background to supplement my experience,” he says. “This was my chance.”
Although Bangura hesitated about pursuing an MSW at age 49, his apprehension quickly disappeared.
“Age didn’t matter,” he explains. “We were all there to learn.”
Even with his considerable experience, he adds, coursework in clinical theory, neuroscience, and policy immediately challenged him. Likewise, he says, “I was learning from students who had fresh perspectives.”
Art Therapy at Little Wanderers
In his first placement, Bangura provided individual and group therapy to fifth- and sixth-grade students at the Harvard-Kent Elementary School in Charlestown.
He went on to work with his field advisor to tailor a unique second internship at the Child and Family Counseling Center (CFCC), an outpatient clinic run by the Home for Little Wanderers. There, he incorporated therapeutic drumming into individual therapy and facilitated drumming groups to teach other therapists about this evidence-based meditative art.
On the last day of his final semester at Simmons, Bangura brought his drums to class.
“I had a fantastic experience in the program,” he says. “Whole other worlds opened.” His innovative approach and commitment to the field earned him Simmons Social Work’s 2024 Iris Macrae Award for Achievement in Social Work.
“I truly love working with young people,” says Bangura. “Many of their stories are similar to my own: they come from a marginalized community and from a rhythm culture.”
In addition to his position in the Therapeutic After-School Program, Bangura continues to provide individual therapy incorporating therapeutic drumming at the CFCC.
In all his endeavors, he says, “I’m along for the journey to help my clients reach their highest potential.”