Black Therapists in Victoria, BC
Shayla S Dube
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RCSW, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8L
Waitlist for new clients
Wamkelekile- Welcome & thank you for being here. I am a Bantu woman who has spent the last 13 years walking alongside people from different walks of life and holding space for their healing journeys with compassion and curiosity. I believe in de-pathologizing and re-humanizing mental health, while seeing and valuing people in their authentic wholeness. Although my targeted people are: those who are racialized as Black, Indigenous peoples and all equity seeking humans who might be struggling with identity-based trauma, intergenerational trauma and/or racial trauma, I am open to working with all those who feel aligned with my values.
Wamkelekile- Welcome & thank you for being here. I am a Bantu woman who has spent the last 13 years walking alongside people from different walks of life and holding space for their healing journeys with compassion and curiosity. I believe in de-pathologizing and re-humanizing mental health, while seeing and valuing people in their authentic wholeness. Although my targeted people are: those who are racialized as Black, Indigenous peoples and all equity seeking humans who might be struggling with identity-based trauma, intergenerational trauma and/or racial trauma, I am open to working with all those who feel aligned with my values.
My goal as a Transpersonal Therapist, is to help you uncover your true potential & lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand & resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches & techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns, or negative perceptions, that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling & meaningful life. If you're looking for additional support & guidance through a challenging situation, or just ready to move in a new direction, I look forward to working with you.
My goal as a Transpersonal Therapist, is to help you uncover your true potential & lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand & resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches & techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns, or negative perceptions, that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling & meaningful life. If you're looking for additional support & guidance through a challenging situation, or just ready to move in a new direction, I look forward to working with you.
My practice is person-centered, strength-based, trauma informed. I think that each person coming to therapy is unique. Each person attempts to do the best possible with the resources available. Each person has wisdom, creativity, and strength, and is the authority in their life. Doing counselling means providing a safer space for you to tell your story. And it is a space for us to have conversations and to work together.
My practice is person-centered, strength-based, trauma informed. I think that each person coming to therapy is unique. Each person attempts to do the best possible with the resources available. Each person has wisdom, creativity, and strength, and is the authority in their life. Doing counselling means providing a safer space for you to tell your story. And it is a space for us to have conversations and to work together.
Maureen Codispodi
Counsellor, CCC, RCC, MA, MAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T (Online Only)
I support individuals and couples and strive to ensure that they have a place where they feel safe to explore what they need to move forward toward their own goals at their pace. With my over twenty years of professional experience in mental health, education and learning services/special education and counselling, I aim to support the uniqueness of each client and their specific life situations. I also bring a unique understanding of multicultural challenges as I have lived, worked and travelled around the world. I would genuinely love to connect with you and find out if we are a good match to support reaching your goals.
I support individuals and couples and strive to ensure that they have a place where they feel safe to explore what they need to move forward toward their own goals at their pace. With my over twenty years of professional experience in mental health, education and learning services/special education and counselling, I aim to support the uniqueness of each client and their specific life situations. I also bring a unique understanding of multicultural challenges as I have lived, worked and travelled around the world. I would genuinely love to connect with you and find out if we are a good match to support reaching your goals.
I've spent most of my career working in the school system as a counsellor, behaviour support specialist, teacher and administrator. I am now a BC registered clinical counsellor and am working at The Budding Elm in Victoria which offers in person and virtual services. I have a real interest in working with individuals, with children & youth, with couples and with families. Processing life changes, grief & loss, relationship issues, and the stress of everyday living are examples of what I hope to be able to help you with. I offer a free 15 minute consultation where you can determine if working with me might be a good fit for you.
I've spent most of my career working in the school system as a counsellor, behaviour support specialist, teacher and administrator. I am now a BC registered clinical counsellor and am working at The Budding Elm in Victoria which offers in person and virtual services. I have a real interest in working with individuals, with children & youth, with couples and with families. Processing life changes, grief & loss, relationship issues, and the stress of everyday living are examples of what I hope to be able to help you with. I offer a free 15 minute consultation where you can determine if working with me might be a good fit for you.
Darlene Mathews
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MA, RSW, RCC, ACS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8Z (Online Only)
Vulnerability can make us feel very uncomfortable, but if we view it as a transition, into higher self-esteem/confidence & therefore more life resilience then it is much healthier to forge ahead to find a therapist who can support us. Finding the best fit in seeking a therapist is the most important step in relieving your stress. Many of us struggle with unhappiness, anxiety, depression, suicide ideation, sleep deprivation, separation, divorce, conflict resolution, trauma, relationship, and parenting issues, emotion regulation, communication and assertiveness, boundaries, personal development, caregiver burden and so much more
Vulnerability can make us feel very uncomfortable, but if we view it as a transition, into higher self-esteem/confidence & therefore more life resilience then it is much healthier to forge ahead to find a therapist who can support us. Finding the best fit in seeking a therapist is the most important step in relieving your stress. Many of us struggle with unhappiness, anxiety, depression, suicide ideation, sleep deprivation, separation, divorce, conflict resolution, trauma, relationship, and parenting issues, emotion regulation, communication and assertiveness, boundaries, personal development, caregiver burden and so much more
Working with me is a process of honestly confronting our internal world in a non-judgemental way. Together we can work towards authenticity and a genuine relationship with ourselves and others. Counselling entails finding ways to manage our experiences while changing the underlying issues that perpetuate them. Sometimes, growth means overcoming obstacles through practical work, and sometimes it making sense of our challenges within the broader unfolding of our lives. For affordable counselling options, I supervise Master-level counselling interns through yourpathcounselling.ca
Working with me is a process of honestly confronting our internal world in a non-judgemental way. Together we can work towards authenticity and a genuine relationship with ourselves and others. Counselling entails finding ways to manage our experiences while changing the underlying issues that perpetuate them. Sometimes, growth means overcoming obstacles through practical work, and sometimes it making sense of our challenges within the broader unfolding of our lives. For affordable counselling options, I supervise Master-level counselling interns through yourpathcounselling.ca
Help Clinic Canada
Counsellor, CCC, RCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T (Online Only)
Our team of therapists have up to 30+ years experience supporting individuals, couples and families. At Help Clinic Canada, our mission is to provide accessible, comprehensive online therapy services to all Canadians. We are dedicated to breaking down barriers to mental health support and providing a safe, client-centred practice that promotes personal growth and well-being, tailored to the unique needs of each individual we serve. We believe that therapy should be easily accessible, allowing individuals to attend sessions from the comfort and security of their homes, workplaces, vacations, or when away for work.
Our team of therapists have up to 30+ years experience supporting individuals, couples and families. At Help Clinic Canada, our mission is to provide accessible, comprehensive online therapy services to all Canadians. We are dedicated to breaking down barriers to mental health support and providing a safe, client-centred practice that promotes personal growth and well-being, tailored to the unique needs of each individual we serve. We believe that therapy should be easily accessible, allowing individuals to attend sessions from the comfort and security of their homes, workplaces, vacations, or when away for work.
Are you a teen, adult, or parent struggling with stress and anxiety, low mood or depression, trauma, relationship challenges, grief or loss, change and transitions, overwhelming emotions, or other difficulties that feel hard to manage on your own? Are you hoping for support that is genuine, non-judgmental, effective, and rooted in both a clinical and social justice background? Are you looking for someone who values diversity and has lived experience as a member of a historically marginalized group? Do you want to feel more grounded and more aligned so that you can better handle the challenges you face and begin to thrive?
Are you a teen, adult, or parent struggling with stress and anxiety, low mood or depression, trauma, relationship challenges, grief or loss, change and transitions, overwhelming emotions, or other difficulties that feel hard to manage on your own? Are you hoping for support that is genuine, non-judgmental, effective, and rooted in both a clinical and social justice background? Are you looking for someone who values diversity and has lived experience as a member of a historically marginalized group? Do you want to feel more grounded and more aligned so that you can better handle the challenges you face and begin to thrive?
Welcome! I'm a registered social worker offering online psychotherapy across BC and Ontario. Specializing in trauma-focused therapy, I provide a supportive space for BIPOC, Queer, and Neurodiverse folks, but my door is open to all who connect with my values. My approach acknowledges the profound impacts of trauma and systemic injustice, while also valuing the richness and complexity of our experiences that exist alongside suffering. I aim to nurture a space where we address the pain of trauma and oppression, and actively reclaim the immense potential for joy, pleasure, beauty, and fulfillment in your life.
Welcome! I'm a registered social worker offering online psychotherapy across BC and Ontario. Specializing in trauma-focused therapy, I provide a supportive space for BIPOC, Queer, and Neurodiverse folks, but my door is open to all who connect with my values. My approach acknowledges the profound impacts of trauma and systemic injustice, while also valuing the richness and complexity of our experiences that exist alongside suffering. I aim to nurture a space where we address the pain of trauma and oppression, and actively reclaim the immense potential for joy, pleasure, beauty, and fulfillment in your life.
Tajah Olson Therapy & Coaching
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8N (Online Only)
Registered clinical counsellor. Born and raised in East Africa, currently in BC. I take pride in empowering and helping individuals to see their true potential. I understand how anxiety, trauma, life transitions, identity issues, depression, low self-esteem/confidence, lack of self-love, detachment and complicated relationships can negatively impact us from living the life we want.
Registered clinical counsellor. Born and raised in East Africa, currently in BC. I take pride in empowering and helping individuals to see their true potential. I understand how anxiety, trauma, life transitions, identity issues, depression, low self-esteem/confidence, lack of self-love, detachment and complicated relationships can negatively impact us from living the life we want.
15 Second Videos
NW Books and Therapy
Lizanne Chicanot
Darlene Mathews
Help Clinic Canada
Tajah Olson Therapy & Coaching
Stephen O Ademoluti
Sacred Sessions Counselling
Hartwell Counselling, Ltd.
Sol Fried
Stephen O Ademoluti
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T (Online Only)
Life, with its ups and downs, twists and turns, can be complex as you struggle to find your footing. My journey through life in the past years has exposed me to human vulnerability. Trust me, I have been there, and that is why I am ready to take a holistic approach first as a human without being biased, but full of empathy and trust as we walk together to discover the best version of you. I collaborate with individuals with anxiety, depression, and trauma using interventions such as Cognitive behavioral therapy, Solution Focused Based therapy, Emotion Focused therapy, and Narrative therapy to provide the space to safely heal.
Life, with its ups and downs, twists and turns, can be complex as you struggle to find your footing. My journey through life in the past years has exposed me to human vulnerability. Trust me, I have been there, and that is why I am ready to take a holistic approach first as a human without being biased, but full of empathy and trust as we walk together to discover the best version of you. I collaborate with individuals with anxiety, depression, and trauma using interventions such as Cognitive behavioral therapy, Solution Focused Based therapy, Emotion Focused therapy, and Narrative therapy to provide the space to safely heal.
Tap into your own innate resilience and grow! Speak so your partner can really 'feel' you. I have over 24 years' experience and specialize in personal growth, relationship/family dynamics, sexual issues, narcissism and GNM. I use a blend of NVC (compassionate connection), Imago-style and Trust Oriented Therapy. Enhance your communication skills. Polish your relationships till they gleam! Welcome to the whole of you: the rebellious, the angry,the shy,the forgotten,the lonely and more. The result? Good health and success!
Tap into your own innate resilience and grow! Speak so your partner can really 'feel' you. I have over 24 years' experience and specialize in personal growth, relationship/family dynamics, sexual issues, narcissism and GNM. I use a blend of NVC (compassionate connection), Imago-style and Trust Oriented Therapy. Enhance your communication skills. Polish your relationships till they gleam! Welcome to the whole of you: the rebellious, the angry,the shy,the forgotten,the lonely and more. The result? Good health and success!
Life can be overwhelming when we’re juggling multiple responsibilities while taking care of ourselves and others. Particularly when something unexpected arises, our balance can be disturbed. Navigating life’s challenges can also become more intense when hidden parts of ourselves, or others, arise and dominate situations, making them hard to understand. In these times, it is not surprising that so many people turn to therapy for illumination and support.
Life can be overwhelming when we’re juggling multiple responsibilities while taking care of ourselves and others. Particularly when something unexpected arises, our balance can be disturbed. Navigating life’s challenges can also become more intense when hidden parts of ourselves, or others, arise and dominate situations, making them hard to understand. In these times, it is not surprising that so many people turn to therapy for illumination and support.
Aisha Keen Counselling
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8P (Online Only)
I am a Therapist with a Social Work education background who wants to use my skills to support those who are struggling. I’ve supported children, youth, adults, and families from all walks of life through all sorts of difficult life experiences. Whether this is your first time seeking counselling or you are exploring further options, I am here to support you and meet you where you are at.
I am a Therapist with a Social Work education background who wants to use my skills to support those who are struggling. I’ve supported children, youth, adults, and families from all walks of life through all sorts of difficult life experiences. Whether this is your first time seeking counselling or you are exploring further options, I am here to support you and meet you where you are at.
Sacred Sessions Counselling
Counsellor, Deedre, Statz, BA, RTC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8L (Online Only)
Does your grief & anxiety overwhelm you? I work primarily with women who are dealing with grief, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges & life transitions. I support clients to access their inner strength, personal goals, and inner wisdom by teaching them to get into relationship with their emotions. My approach to counselling is deeply rooted in compassion & integrity, blending each persons individual belief system with their unique history & life experience. The counselling I offer is both gentle & practical where together we can explore your unique emotional, physical, intellectual, & spiritual values in sacred space.
Does your grief & anxiety overwhelm you? I work primarily with women who are dealing with grief, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges & life transitions. I support clients to access their inner strength, personal goals, and inner wisdom by teaching them to get into relationship with their emotions. My approach to counselling is deeply rooted in compassion & integrity, blending each persons individual belief system with their unique history & life experience. The counselling I offer is both gentle & practical where together we can explore your unique emotional, physical, intellectual, & spiritual values in sacred space.
At different points in our lives, we may be faced with trials and tribulations that can be difficult, leave us uneasy, unhappy, anxious, depressed, or unsatisfied. As a developing psychotherapist, I aim to use my growing knowledge to aid those in the community combat these trying times. So, congratulations on taking the first step towards change. I work with individuals, families, teens (12+), and athletes dealing with trauma, reduction of stress, anxiety and accomplishing various life goals. I help clients reach a state of happiness, balance, and better health through a healthy therapeutic relationship and an integrative approach.
At different points in our lives, we may be faced with trials and tribulations that can be difficult, leave us uneasy, unhappy, anxious, depressed, or unsatisfied. As a developing psychotherapist, I aim to use my growing knowledge to aid those in the community combat these trying times. So, congratulations on taking the first step towards change. I work with individuals, families, teens (12+), and athletes dealing with trauma, reduction of stress, anxiety and accomplishing various life goals. I help clients reach a state of happiness, balance, and better health through a healthy therapeutic relationship and an integrative approach.
When was the last time you experienced harmony with your core principles? At Hartwell Counselling, I provide a compassionate and transformative therapy rooted in evidence-based practices such as EMDR. EMDR which stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing and its the gold standard for treating and processing trauma. EMDR reduces trauma symptoms in a shorter time frame than the traditional talk therapy. Many clients have reported a reduction of traumatic symptoms after the initial few sessions of EMDR. EMDR is not a magic cure for trauma but it might produce some symptoms relief.
When was the last time you experienced harmony with your core principles? At Hartwell Counselling, I provide a compassionate and transformative therapy rooted in evidence-based practices such as EMDR. EMDR which stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing and its the gold standard for treating and processing trauma. EMDR reduces trauma symptoms in a shorter time frame than the traditional talk therapy. Many clients have reported a reduction of traumatic symptoms after the initial few sessions of EMDR. EMDR is not a magic cure for trauma but it might produce some symptoms relief.
I am a Registered Clinical Counselor (RCC-BCACC) based in Vancouver, BC, Canada. I am also a psychologist in Brazil registered with CRP RJ with more than 17 years of experience. I have a PhD in Psychology (UFF Brazil) in which I researched how to improve the care midwives provide to women, newborns and families. I am also a certified maternal mental health service provider with Postpartum Support International - PSI, USA.
I am a Registered Clinical Counselor (RCC-BCACC) based in Vancouver, BC, Canada. I am also a psychologist in Brazil registered with CRP RJ with more than 17 years of experience. I have a PhD in Psychology (UFF Brazil) in which I researched how to improve the care midwives provide to women, newborns and families. I am also a certified maternal mental health service provider with Postpartum Support International - PSI, USA.
Sol Fried
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RCC, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
Now offering trauma focused psychotherapy and EMDR in Petawawa. I provide counselling and therapy services to adolescents, adults, and seniors. As a person who has been deaf since early childhood, I have learned to speak and hear through the benefits of technology, including the cochlear implant. I am uniquely qualified to work with clients who identify as a person with a disability. As a person with a disability, I identify with life challenges and role model resilience, compassion, perseverance and hope. I am inclusive of all cultures, faiths, gender identities and sexual orientations.
Now offering trauma focused psychotherapy and EMDR in Petawawa. I provide counselling and therapy services to adolescents, adults, and seniors. As a person who has been deaf since early childhood, I have learned to speak and hear through the benefits of technology, including the cochlear implant. I am uniquely qualified to work with clients who identify as a person with a disability. As a person with a disability, I identify with life challenges and role model resilience, compassion, perseverance and hope. I am inclusive of all cultures, faiths, gender identities and sexual orientations.
I work with the following diagnosis; GAD, PTSD, Panic attacks, Grief, Trauma, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, OCD, Sexual Abuse, Couples therapy, Do you feel frozen, anxious, only working at half capacity? Or....are you usually frustrated, angry, sad, confused? Or...are you mad at many people and situations, including your personal relationships? I use cognitive, emotive and somatic (body) approaches. My extensive experience has shown me that counseling with the SOMATIC aspect included usually gets the DEEPEST AND QUICKEST RESULTS. I am an SEP., Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, from Peter Levine's trauma work.
I work with the following diagnosis; GAD, PTSD, Panic attacks, Grief, Trauma, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, OCD, Sexual Abuse, Couples therapy, Do you feel frozen, anxious, only working at half capacity? Or....are you usually frustrated, angry, sad, confused? Or...are you mad at many people and situations, including your personal relationships? I use cognitive, emotive and somatic (body) approaches. My extensive experience has shown me that counseling with the SOMATIC aspect included usually gets the DEEPEST AND QUICKEST RESULTS. I am an SEP., Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, from Peter Levine's trauma work.
Online Therapists
Ruth Unaegbu
Counsellor, MA, RCC, ACS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Port Coquitlam, BC V3B (Online Only)
Hi! I’m Ruth Unaegbu, founder of Ruth Unaegbu Counselling & Coaching. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC #12132) & Supervisor providing private therapy and supervision services in British Columbia, Canada. I created my practice in an effort to provide counselling services for those encountering various issues, difficulties, and disruptions in life as well as those looking to enhance and expand. I work with a variety of individuals and provide culturally affirming counselling to BIPOC, with a big focus on Black women, first-generation and immigrant Canadians.
Hi! I’m Ruth Unaegbu, founder of Ruth Unaegbu Counselling & Coaching. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC #12132) & Supervisor providing private therapy and supervision services in British Columbia, Canada. I created my practice in an effort to provide counselling services for those encountering various issues, difficulties, and disruptions in life as well as those looking to enhance and expand. I work with a variety of individuals and provide culturally affirming counselling to BIPOC, with a big focus on Black women, first-generation and immigrant Canadians.
Moyin Adefisayo
Counsellor, BSc, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6J (Online Only)
Hi and Welcome! So happy that you have taken this huge step! If you are struggling with stress, depression, anxiety or you just need a person to talk to, then you are in the right place. Life can be unpredictable and confusing sometimes, and seeking professional help gives us the opportunity to unpack it all and piece them together. I am very passionate about removing the stigma and lack of knowledge associated with mental health, and providing more support for members of the Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) communities. I offer a warm, judgement-free space to look at the factors that contribute to a person's life.
Hi and Welcome! So happy that you have taken this huge step! If you are struggling with stress, depression, anxiety or you just need a person to talk to, then you are in the right place. Life can be unpredictable and confusing sometimes, and seeking professional help gives us the opportunity to unpack it all and piece them together. I am very passionate about removing the stigma and lack of knowledge associated with mental health, and providing more support for members of the Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) communities. I offer a warm, judgement-free space to look at the factors that contribute to a person's life.
Metamorphose Counselling and Consultation Ltd.
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Coquitlam, BC V3C
Metamorphose Counselling and Consultation Ltd. focuses on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging, we are a Black-owned and operated business with passionate people employing their talents and strengths, providing tools and resources to enable all groups and people navigating a transition to grow; by providing a safe space for them to share their stories, without fear and judgement, to aid in their transformation.
Metamorphose Counselling and Consultation Ltd. focuses on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging, we are a Black-owned and operated business with passionate people employing their talents and strengths, providing tools and resources to enable all groups and people navigating a transition to grow; by providing a safe space for them to share their stories, without fear and judgement, to aid in their transformation.
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting task. As a Black and queer counsellor, I work to help those who are in need of a safe space to open up about difficult issues that they have faced in their life. I work from a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive lens in order to create a safe environment for every client I work with. I especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA2S+ folks, BIPOC folks, and sex workers, and I welcome anyone outside of these communities to reach out as well.
Finding the right therapist can be a daunting task. As a Black and queer counsellor, I work to help those who are in need of a safe space to open up about difficult issues that they have faced in their life. I work from a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive lens in order to create a safe environment for every client I work with. I especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA2S+ folks, BIPOC folks, and sex workers, and I welcome anyone outside of these communities to reach out as well.
See more therapy options for Victoria
Nearby Searches for Victoria
See More CounsellorsBlack Counsellors
As a Black Canadian, why might I wish to see a therapist who is Black Canadian?
Black Canadian clients may seek out Black Canadian 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 Black Canadian clients?
Clients can ask therapists directly about their experience working with clients of diverse backgrounds, including with Black Canadian 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 Black Canadian 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, recognising 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.