This qualitative phenomenological investigation explores the impact of systemic racism on stress among African American doctoral students in clinical psychology aged 25 to 55 and identifies coping strategies employed by this demographic. The study analyzes participants' experiences, emotional responses, and coping mechanisms in the face of systemic racism, drawing on Resilience Theory developed by Norman Garmezy. Findings reveal pervasive encounters with systemic racism, leading to emotions such as depression, frustration, and self-doubt, along with coping strategies like avoidance and seeking social support. The Protective Vulnerability Model within Resilience Theory elucidates the interplay between vulnerability and protective factors in participants' responses. Recommendations include integrating strength-based interventions and empowerment strategies within academic and professional settings to support African American doctoral students affected by systemic racism. The study underscores the ongoing need for research, dialogue, and interventions to address systemic racism and promote resilience among African American doctoral students in clinical psychology. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]