Black and African American Therapists in Washington
![Photo of Nicole Marie Hoyes Wilson - Collective Healing Counseling, LICSW, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ab7dc7f-bb49-478a-933b-a1fec32a027d/1/320x400.jpeg)
You deserve a life of self-love, compassion, and healing. I specialize in working with people experiencing major life changes (new career, new family configuration, losing a loved one, romantic relationship ending or beginning, new migration to the US), depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and adjustment issues. I often serve BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, plus), refugee, and immigrant communities and young adults.
You deserve a life of self-love, compassion, and healing. I specialize in working with people experiencing major life changes (new career, new family configuration, losing a loved one, romantic relationship ending or beginning, new migration to the US), depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and adjustment issues. I often serve BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, plus), refugee, and immigrant communities and young adults.
![Photo of Jameela Muhammad - The Melanated Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f081117-5b15-43a8-bedf-155f5702f4c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Melanated Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98408 (Online Only)
Jameela Muhammad owner of The Melanated Therapist is designed for those seeking to rebuild and heal from interpersonal and generational trauma. A focus on Black and Brown adolescents and adults struggling with stress, trauma, interpersonal relationships and life transitions. I hope to engage with individuals to build self-love, empathy and compassion for self, as well as teaching coping strategies to work through obstacles in a holistic and goal oriented way.
Jameela Muhammad owner of The Melanated Therapist is designed for those seeking to rebuild and heal from interpersonal and generational trauma. A focus on Black and Brown adolescents and adults struggling with stress, trauma, interpersonal relationships and life transitions. I hope to engage with individuals to build self-love, empathy and compassion for self, as well as teaching coping strategies to work through obstacles in a holistic and goal oriented way.
![Photo of Justin Talkish - Justin Talkish Counseling , LMHC, MHP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/376888ba-ea6e-487e-b391-b56c43662cd0/2/320x400.png)
Struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma? Let's navigate these challenges together. I'm Justin, a dedicated licensed therapist specializing in DBT and TF-CBT. As a Black male therapist, I bring a unique perspective to my practice, fostering an empathetic, secure environment for adults and teens. Our sessions integrate mental, physical, and emotional wellness for holistic healing. We'll explore your story, tackle your struggles, and work together to cultivate a more fulfilling, balanced life. Ready to start your journey? Reach out to me.
Struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma? Let's navigate these challenges together. I'm Justin, a dedicated licensed therapist specializing in DBT and TF-CBT. As a Black male therapist, I bring a unique perspective to my practice, fostering an empathetic, secure environment for adults and teens. Our sessions integrate mental, physical, and emotional wellness for holistic healing. We'll explore your story, tackle your struggles, and work together to cultivate a more fulfilling, balanced life. Ready to start your journey? Reach out to me.
![Photo of Danesha Deloatch, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16c8aa1f-e980-4ec4-91e9-38249b6ee90a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danesha Deloatch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Harbor, WA 98277 (Online Only)
I foster a safe space to serve the systematically underserved Black, Indigenous, Minority Peoples’.
In life it can feel like there are many barriers we have to break through. We feel like all the pressure is on us and sometimes we do not feel supported, seen, or understood. We may doubt ourselves. We have the pressure of career, children (postpartum and fertility), relationships, and it can be exhausting, or even overwhelming. Also, military families experience that at a double rate! However, we do not have to break those barriers down alone! Our goal is to help our clients understand self-love, compassion, & assist in problem solve and create a safe space to overcome the barriers in life. Please note I do not see children.
I foster a safe space to serve the systematically underserved Black, Indigenous, Minority Peoples’.
In life it can feel like there are many barriers we have to break through. We feel like all the pressure is on us and sometimes we do not feel supported, seen, or understood. We may doubt ourselves. We have the pressure of career, children (postpartum and fertility), relationships, and it can be exhausting, or even overwhelming. Also, military families experience that at a double rate! However, we do not have to break those barriers down alone! Our goal is to help our clients understand self-love, compassion, & assist in problem solve and create a safe space to overcome the barriers in life. Please note I do not see children.
![Photo of Abdullahi Jaranow, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f21d588-9447-4c27-9454-f6dacdbf8f43/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed therapist and clergy, my aim is to provide my clients with the utmost understanding of their diverse needs. With my background as a black, immigrant, and Muslim individual, I bring a unique perspective to the table that fosters cultural humility. My approach is personalized and family-centered, valuing the stories of each and every client. I create a supportive environment that embraces all identities, and I help my clients navigate their mental health journeys with confidence, using evidence-based practices and cultural competency.
As a licensed therapist and clergy, my aim is to provide my clients with the utmost understanding of their diverse needs. With my background as a black, immigrant, and Muslim individual, I bring a unique perspective to the table that fosters cultural humility. My approach is personalized and family-centered, valuing the stories of each and every client. I create a supportive environment that embraces all identities, and I help my clients navigate their mental health journeys with confidence, using evidence-based practices and cultural competency.
![Photo of Ashley McGirt - Ashley McGirt Counseling Services LLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52623fec-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley McGirt Counseling Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98108
Not accepting new clients
While I am a Black therapist who specializes in racial trauma & minority mental health I also provide a safe space for ALL to feel empowered, gain insight, and learn skills to get through the difficult stage you are in.
Have you been stressed from the current state of the world, covid, exacerbated racial trauma? Are you experiencing microagressions at work? Have you been in a funk that you just can't get out of? Have you experienced a recent loss? Or are you just looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation? If so you have found the right place. Perhaps old coping mechanisms aren't as effective and/or you seek a different unbiased perspective. Whatever the reason I would love to help guide you thru the path of self-discovery, awareness, and well-being. I can assist you in overcoming the challenges you are currently facing.
While I am a Black therapist who specializes in racial trauma & minority mental health I also provide a safe space for ALL to feel empowered, gain insight, and learn skills to get through the difficult stage you are in.
Have you been stressed from the current state of the world, covid, exacerbated racial trauma? Are you experiencing microagressions at work? Have you been in a funk that you just can't get out of? Have you experienced a recent loss? Or are you just looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation? If so you have found the right place. Perhaps old coping mechanisms aren't as effective and/or you seek a different unbiased perspective. Whatever the reason I would love to help guide you thru the path of self-discovery, awareness, and well-being. I can assist you in overcoming the challenges you are currently facing.
![Photo of Angela Saidybah, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59c31e2a-5395-43d2-ad59-62dea548de3a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Saidybah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Federal Way, WA 98003 (Online Only)
As an African American therapist, I prioritize treating racial trauma, strengthening community, and cultivating wellness.
Therapy is a vehicle of exploration of your higher self. Clients are encouraged to assess their overall functioning across the life domains to identify their healing/wellness opportunities. Trauma exposures are often stored in the body and can manifest in maladaptive ways such as low self-esteem, shame, anger, interpersonal conflict, impulsivity, stagnation, anxiety, depression, and demoralization. Accordingly, I approach therapy from a collaborative perspective encouraging clients to discover their medicine by honoring their truth and intrinsic value.
As an African American therapist, I prioritize treating racial trauma, strengthening community, and cultivating wellness.
Therapy is a vehicle of exploration of your higher self. Clients are encouraged to assess their overall functioning across the life domains to identify their healing/wellness opportunities. Trauma exposures are often stored in the body and can manifest in maladaptive ways such as low self-esteem, shame, anger, interpersonal conflict, impulsivity, stagnation, anxiety, depression, and demoralization. Accordingly, I approach therapy from a collaborative perspective encouraging clients to discover their medicine by honoring their truth and intrinsic value.
![Photo of Ursula Zuker - Honey Bee Mental Health — Ursula Zuker, LICSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21e0717f-2ab6-46bb-806e-435120c976c4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Honey Bee Mental Health — Ursula Zuker, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a Black, Biracial clinician with a background in social justice, Ursula is committed to working with people experiencing stress and trauma from racism, including supporting interracial families.
Honey Bee Mental Health joins individual, groups, and families on their liberatory, collective healing journeys. Honey Bee Mental Health recognizes that an individual's healing work reverberates throughout one's family and community, just as bees work collectively to build their homes and create honey.
As a Black, Biracial clinician with a background in social justice, Ursula is committed to working with people experiencing stress and trauma from racism, including supporting interracial families.
Honey Bee Mental Health joins individual, groups, and families on their liberatory, collective healing journeys. Honey Bee Mental Health recognizes that an individual's healing work reverberates throughout one's family and community, just as bees work collectively to build their homes and create honey.
![Photo of Ali Pagan Williams, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1b33905-1e1f-4e69-bdb9-2478ed54b49d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ali Pagan Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and compassionate space for you to re-connect with your whole self (body included!) as well as your strengths, and to process through emotions and experiences that feel challenging to face and sort through on your own. As a black mixed race person of color myself, my racial identity is a lens through which I see the work and how I show up in the therapeutic space. I have a special interest in processing through grief for those who have experienced loss of any kind. I utilize calm, reflective listening, somatic awareness, social justice and systems focus, and a strengths-based approach.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and compassionate space for you to re-connect with your whole self (body included!) as well as your strengths, and to process through emotions and experiences that feel challenging to face and sort through on your own. As a black mixed race person of color myself, my racial identity is a lens through which I see the work and how I show up in the therapeutic space. I have a special interest in processing through grief for those who have experienced loss of any kind. I utilize calm, reflective listening, somatic awareness, social justice and systems focus, and a strengths-based approach.
![Photo of Rian A Roberson, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dedbc1fc-deb4-4a43-a695-063300f561ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
My favorite outlet is training in Kajukembo Kung Fu, and I am actively training for my black belt.
Open to new clients. My ideal client is an emerging adult who is ready to start on the path towards living their best, healthiest, and most authentic life. I work with clients from every background, but I am especially passionate about serving the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. Many of my clients aspire to learn techniques to manage depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. I enjoy aiding clients on their journey towards authentic self-expression, higher self-esteem, powerful communication skills, and utilizing boundaries, especially for clients with marginalized identities.
My favorite outlet is training in Kajukembo Kung Fu, and I am actively training for my black belt.
Open to new clients. My ideal client is an emerging adult who is ready to start on the path towards living their best, healthiest, and most authentic life. I work with clients from every background, but I am especially passionate about serving the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. Many of my clients aspire to learn techniques to manage depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. I enjoy aiding clients on their journey towards authentic self-expression, higher self-esteem, powerful communication skills, and utilizing boundaries, especially for clients with marginalized identities.
![Photo of Tracy L Stewart, MA, MEd, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/451723a5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tracy L Stewart
Counselor, MA, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105 (Online Only)
I center experiences of Black, Indigenous, & other world-majority cultures, & LGBTQIA+. I appreciate the opportunity to work with you to improve relationships, problem-solve, or reduce your suffering.
I center experiences of Black, Indigenous, & other world-majority cultures, & LGBTQIA+. I appreciate the opportunity to work with you to improve relationships, problem-solve, or reduce your suffering.
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![Photo of Sarah R Orihu, MFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71feff96-71ae-4dde-9269-bcdb8c8e0c00/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah R Orihu
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98118 (Online Only)
As a Black woman therapist in the Greater King County, my mission is to empower individuals, couples and families to understand themselves more deeply through healing and growth for the mind and body.
As people of color, we have not always been given the opportunity to address the intricacies of our mental health. We need to remind ourselves that we deserve to have a voice and tend to the vulnerable parts of who we are and what we experience in our lives. I focus my work on the lived experiences of my clients as I aim to decolonize therapy with a justice-oriented and strengths-based approach. I work with individuals to develop positive tools and resources to help improve their relational and individual wellbeing.
As a Black woman therapist in the Greater King County, my mission is to empower individuals, couples and families to understand themselves more deeply through healing and growth for the mind and body.
As people of color, we have not always been given the opportunity to address the intricacies of our mental health. We need to remind ourselves that we deserve to have a voice and tend to the vulnerable parts of who we are and what we experience in our lives. I focus my work on the lived experiences of my clients as I aim to decolonize therapy with a justice-oriented and strengths-based approach. I work with individuals to develop positive tools and resources to help improve their relational and individual wellbeing.
![Photo of Taquesha Dean, MSW, MPH, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e73079fb-1372-4617-bd84-b947a059c55e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Taquesha Dean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MPH, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201 (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients! Welcome to the first step of your therapeutic journey! Therapy is a chance for us to explore the inner workings of our minds, beliefs, and practices in order to live more holistic, fulfilling lives. I prioritize working with Black, Indigenous, and People of Color who are a part of the LGBTQIA2S+ community; however, I also have experience working with individuals and couples from all walks of life.
Now accepting new clients! Welcome to the first step of your therapeutic journey! Therapy is a chance for us to explore the inner workings of our minds, beliefs, and practices in order to live more holistic, fulfilling lives. I prioritize working with Black, Indigenous, and People of Color who are a part of the LGBTQIA2S+ community; however, I also have experience working with individuals and couples from all walks of life.
![Photo of Rykiell Turner, BA, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f5318b4-3e36-4917-9bd0-4319cbd374ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cultivating a safe space to allow you to be your fully authentic self and guide to self-actualization. Emphasizing care for African American/Black women from a Humanistic-Existential framework and African-centered lens. Working with individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, life adjustment matters, sexual trauma. I provide services in telehealth sessions.
Cultivating a safe space to allow you to be your fully authentic self and guide to self-actualization. Emphasizing care for African American/Black women from a Humanistic-Existential framework and African-centered lens. Working with individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, life adjustment matters, sexual trauma. I provide services in telehealth sessions.
![Photo of Derek Cooper, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5368a77-37fa-4fb5-9562-d1cd37dbdefb/2/320x400.png)
Derek graduated with a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Bowie State University with a focus on destigmatizing counseling for the black/brown and LGBTQIA communities.
Derek Cooper, LMHC, is a therapist at the Thriving Center of Psychology. He works with a wide range of presenting challenges, including addiction, identity crises, self-esteem/confidence issues, emotion/stress management, and trauma, in addition to working with anxiety and depression. As an Afro-Caribbean who takes pride in his heritage, he brings a multicultural perspective to his work and has extensive experience with individuals from a variety of backgrounds, ethnicities, and identities. He has particular expertise in working with people of color and the LGBTQIA community.
Derek graduated with a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Bowie State University with a focus on destigmatizing counseling for the black/brown and LGBTQIA communities.
Derek Cooper, LMHC, is a therapist at the Thriving Center of Psychology. He works with a wide range of presenting challenges, including addiction, identity crises, self-esteem/confidence issues, emotion/stress management, and trauma, in addition to working with anxiety and depression. As an Afro-Caribbean who takes pride in his heritage, he brings a multicultural perspective to his work and has extensive experience with individuals from a variety of backgrounds, ethnicities, and identities. He has particular expertise in working with people of color and the LGBTQIA community.
![Photo of Makayla Woods, LSWAIC, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/976e3b28-3545-41c9-bd1e-4a67cc2182c5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I truly believe that everyone already has the ability to transform their lives. I’m just a vehicle to help you understand and interpret your experiences in a way that better helps you achieve the things you want. I find that empowering others through their own strengths is the most rewarding thing. As a Black woman with personal experience navigating life in a society as a minority, I feel that it is imperative to incorporate your cultural values and beliefs into the therapeutic process at a level you feel comfortable with.
I truly believe that everyone already has the ability to transform their lives. I’m just a vehicle to help you understand and interpret your experiences in a way that better helps you achieve the things you want. I find that empowering others through their own strengths is the most rewarding thing. As a Black woman with personal experience navigating life in a society as a minority, I feel that it is imperative to incorporate your cultural values and beliefs into the therapeutic process at a level you feel comfortable with.
![Photo of Jade Herbert, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5427a211-b4fc-44a3-b547-1faed4faa68f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jade Herbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Auburn, WA 98002 (Online Only)
I believe everyone deserves a chance to find peace and joy in their lives. My personal experience of being a plus-size Black woman has given me insight into how oppression and internalized oppression can shape our experiences and view of the world, and stop us from reaching our fullest potential. No matter the circumstance, you deserve a safe space to discuss the pressures, stigmas, trauma, shame, hurt, loss, and oppressive systems you have to navigate every day. I believe therapy serves as a space to explore our many intersectional identities and start the journey to becoming our best selves.
I believe everyone deserves a chance to find peace and joy in their lives. My personal experience of being a plus-size Black woman has given me insight into how oppression and internalized oppression can shape our experiences and view of the world, and stop us from reaching our fullest potential. No matter the circumstance, you deserve a safe space to discuss the pressures, stigmas, trauma, shame, hurt, loss, and oppressive systems you have to navigate every day. I believe therapy serves as a space to explore our many intersectional identities and start the journey to becoming our best selves.
![Photo of Mille Byrd, MS, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15022d2f-73d8-4ede-8cd2-7dbedff747d6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mille Byrd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98030 (Online Only)
Focus: African-American clients.
Hello! Welcome to Healing Byrd Therapy. I am a therapist that works from a systemic approach believing that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Individuals that have experienced domestic violence, sexual exploitation, abuse, sexual trauma or racialized trauma will find that my approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, unbiased and culturally competent.
Focus: African-American clients.
Hello! Welcome to Healing Byrd Therapy. I am a therapist that works from a systemic approach believing that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Individuals that have experienced domestic violence, sexual exploitation, abuse, sexual trauma or racialized trauma will find that my approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, unbiased and culturally competent.
![Photo of Krista Merca, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16e14bb5-025f-4924-847f-657c123815d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Krista Merca
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Normandy Park, WA 98148 (Online Only)
You and your loved ones deserve to feel understood and safe as you explore challenging patterns throughout your healing journey. I am passionate about working alongside queer folx who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. I look forward to helping clients who are hoping to deepen their understanding of their identity and learn how those intersecting factors impact how they show up in interpersonal relationships.
You and your loved ones deserve to feel understood and safe as you explore challenging patterns throughout your healing journey. I am passionate about working alongside queer folx who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. I look forward to helping clients who are hoping to deepen their understanding of their identity and learn how those intersecting factors impact how they show up in interpersonal relationships.
![Photo of Brenique Bannister, RMHCI, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45ea44ab-75c8-4d23-a719-01932f216ded/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brenique Bannister
Counselor, RMHCI, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 (Online Only)
I have worked with African-American, Hispanic, and American cultures.
I am a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern with Rise Above It LLC. I have obtained a Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Troy University. As a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, I have experience in individual and group therapy. I specialize in treatment for various conditions including anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and panic disorders. My primary theoretical application of practice is cognitive-behavioral therapy and the treatment of these conditions. In my free time, I enjoy watching thriller movies, trying new foods/cooking, and any type of water activity :)
I have worked with African-American, Hispanic, and American cultures.
I am a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern with Rise Above It LLC. I have obtained a Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Troy University. As a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, I have experience in individual and group therapy. I specialize in treatment for various conditions including anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and panic disorders. My primary theoretical application of practice is cognitive-behavioral therapy and the treatment of these conditions. In my free time, I enjoy watching thriller movies, trying new foods/cooking, and any type of water activity :)
See more therapy options for Washington
Black and African American Therapists
As an African American, why might I wish to see a therapist who is African American?
African American clients may seek out African American therapists for several reasons, foremost being a sense of cultural understanding and the possibility of shared experiences. Cultural sensitivity and context on the part of the therapist may make it easier to form a therapeutic alliance and to focus on the work of therapy without the need to explain or educate a therapist on cultural matters. It may also be empowering to work with a therapist who shares one’s racial or ethnic background. It is important to note that a therapist who demonstrates cultural sensitivity can be highly effective even if they do not share a client’s background or race.
Can clients benefit from working with a therapist who shares their race or ethnicity?
Yes, having a therapist who shares a client’s race or ethnicity is often valuable, especially if it fosters a strong therapeutic alliance between the two. While training, qualifications, and experience are always important, a strong alliance between client and therapist is a major contributor to therapeutic effectiveness. An alliance is likely to be strengthened with a therapist who has an understanding of a client’s background and perhaps also shared life experiences. It should be noted that many clients form a strong bond with their therapist regardless of their race or ethnicity. This is a personal decision, and it depends on the therapist, the client, and the connection between the two.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with African American clients?
Clients can ask therapists directly about their experience working with clients of diverse backgrounds, including with African American individuals. You may wish to inquire whether a therapist has undertaken training in cultural competence broadly, and how specifically they would ensure that their approach is sensitive to the needs of African American clients. Therapy involves honesty and trust, so it’s best for clients to share concerns about their therapist’s cultural competence at the outset. And a good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals based on the concerns you articulate.
Why is it important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive?
It’s important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive because everyone comes to therapy with a unique background and set of experiences. Being aware of culture and cultural differences between people is important for understanding clients, as is coming to therapy with an open mind, recognizing that the therapist doesn’t necessarily understand everything and that the client can help guide the way.
Who is included in Psychology Today's directory of Black therapists?
The directory of Black therapists includes therapists who have self-identified their ethnicity in their profiles. Psychology Today uses this information to assist clients in finding a therapist who can provide a cultural match. However, not all therapists choose to disclose their ethnicity in their profile, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. In situations where the number of therapists who have identified as Black is limited, the directory will also show therapists who have undergone specific multicultural training or have extensive experience working with clients from relevant cultural backgrounds.