Black Therapists in Brantford, ON

Photo of Kerry-Ann Cameron - A Better Choice Counselling, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Better Choice Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3R  (Online Only)
A Better Choice Counselling is a boutique counselling and psychotherapy practice which specializes in helping individuals impacted by Adverse Childhood Events (ACEs). Why? Research indicates that childhood trauma is not something that we just grow out of as we get older - cumulative stress resulting from abuse, neglect, under-parenting, adversity, and multiple forms of insecurities effects brain development and this impact can last a lifetime if not addressed.
A Better Choice Counselling is a boutique counselling and psychotherapy practice which specializes in helping individuals impacted by Adverse Childhood Events (ACEs). Why? Research indicates that childhood trauma is not something that we just grow out of as we get older - cumulative stress resulting from abuse, neglect, under-parenting, adversity, and multiple forms of insecurities effects brain development and this impact can last a lifetime if not addressed.
(647) 200-0184 View (647) 200-0184
Photo of Francis Oduro - Iqaluk Psychotherapy and Counselling Services , MSW, BSW, CYW, RSW(AB), CCPA, Registered Social Worker
Iqaluk Psychotherapy and Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, CYW, RSW(AB), CCPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3R
As a mental health professional, soccer coach, and father of five girls, I am passionate about helping people of all ages improve their mental health and well-being. I offer counseling services for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma, as well as addiction issues for both teens and adults. My goal is to help people overcome their struggles and lead happier lives. I provide Christian-centered and Indigenous Focus Psychotherapy, which considers a person's spiritual and cultural background.
As a mental health professional, soccer coach, and father of five girls, I am passionate about helping people of all ages improve their mental health and well-being. I offer counseling services for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma, as well as addiction issues for both teens and adults. My goal is to help people overcome their struggles and lead happier lives. I provide Christian-centered and Indigenous Focus Psychotherapy, which considers a person's spiritual and cultural background.
(226) 918-5706 View (226) 918-5706
Photo of Kunle Ifabiyi, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kunle Ifabiyi
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3T  (Online Only)
Do you find it difficult to find purpose in your daily endeavours? Do you wake up each day realizing you’re just doing things based on routine without any sort of deep connection, meaning or passion? Kunle is here to support you with feelings of meaninglessness and help you navigate this experience in order to attain a deep sense of meaning and direction in your life. Kunle is also here to support you with issues around self-esteem, finding meaning, anxiety, depression, and cross-cultural difficulties.
Do you find it difficult to find purpose in your daily endeavours? Do you wake up each day realizing you’re just doing things based on routine without any sort of deep connection, meaning or passion? Kunle is here to support you with feelings of meaninglessness and help you navigate this experience in order to attain a deep sense of meaning and direction in your life. Kunle is also here to support you with issues around self-esteem, finding meaning, anxiety, depression, and cross-cultural difficulties.
(437) 747-3970 View (437) 747-3970
Photo of Narine Dat Sookram, DSW(c), MSW, BSW, BPA-HS, BEd, Registered Social Worker
Narine Dat Sookram
Registered Social Worker, DSW(c), MSW, BSW, BPA-HS, BEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3T
As a therapist, Narine will make it his priority to provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment so his clients will feel secure to share and gain a deeper understanding of their behaviors, thoughts, emotions. Narine, a licensed Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Trainer who was described by his peers as a unique breed. Narine has a passion for people and humanity and believes in the concept of Caritas. He believes that each person, regardless of their circumstances, has something to offer, he meets people where they are at, without judgment, and always encourages them to maximize their potential.
As a therapist, Narine will make it his priority to provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment so his clients will feel secure to share and gain a deeper understanding of their behaviors, thoughts, emotions. Narine, a licensed Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Trainer who was described by his peers as a unique breed. Narine has a passion for people and humanity and believes in the concept of Caritas. He believes that each person, regardless of their circumstances, has something to offer, he meets people where they are at, without judgment, and always encourages them to maximize their potential.
(226) 212-7429 View (226) 212-7429
Photo of Renee A. E. Wallace-Konu, Ed, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Renee A. E. Wallace-Konu
Registered Psychotherapist, Ed, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Brantford, ON N3T
Do you at times feel, disenfranchised or marginalized? Have you ever experienced bullying gender discrimination, microaggression or racism? Oppressed people need a voice. It is your house that is burning down- not your neighbor's. Let me help you put out the fire--I've "been there." I can also support: anxiety, depression, grief and loss, family conflicts, anger management, workplace issues, couples relationship support, M.V.A /PTSD recovery. My therapeutic modalities are: Integrative, Solutions Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Family Therapy, CPT and DBT.
Do you at times feel, disenfranchised or marginalized? Have you ever experienced bullying gender discrimination, microaggression or racism? Oppressed people need a voice. It is your house that is burning down- not your neighbor's. Let me help you put out the fire--I've "been there." I can also support: anxiety, depression, grief and loss, family conflicts, anger management, workplace issues, couples relationship support, M.V.A /PTSD recovery. My therapeutic modalities are: Integrative, Solutions Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Family Therapy, CPT and DBT.
(855) 336-0672 View (855) 336-0672
Photo of Rani Reddy, BSc, MSocSc, CPsych, Psychologist
Rani Reddy
Psychologist, BSc, MSocSc, CPsych
Verified Verified
Brantford, ON N3T
Registered as a psychologist in the areas of clinical, counseling and school psychology, I perform assessments and therapy to children, youth and adults. I am trained and experienced to provide treatment using skills from a variety of different perspectives, such as, ACT, CBT and insight therapies. I particularly favor making explicit what matters to a client in their life, and then facilitating change in that direction, using awareness and mindfulness skills. Empowering and respecting a client's capacity to chose what's best for them within the context of a valued life, is invaluable in my experience.
Registered as a psychologist in the areas of clinical, counseling and school psychology, I perform assessments and therapy to children, youth and adults. I am trained and experienced to provide treatment using skills from a variety of different perspectives, such as, ACT, CBT and insight therapies. I particularly favor making explicit what matters to a client in their life, and then facilitating change in that direction, using awareness and mindfulness skills. Empowering and respecting a client's capacity to chose what's best for them within the context of a valued life, is invaluable in my experience.
(289) 207-7897 View (289) 207-7897
Photo of Esra Magsoud, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Esra Magsoud
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Brantford, ON N3R
NEW patients welcome. Have you been feeling overwhelmed & stressed? Experiencing difficulty in your relationships, school or work? Are you struggling with your emotions? Are you a parent with a child experiencing behavioural issues? Are you or your child struggling with thoughts of depression, self-harm & suicide? Are you experiencing anxiety & work/school related issues? Do you have low self esteem? You have come to the right place! I would be honoured to support you. Whether it be helping to process events, providing support or learning different coping skills through evidence-based interventions, I can help!
NEW patients welcome. Have you been feeling overwhelmed & stressed? Experiencing difficulty in your relationships, school or work? Are you struggling with your emotions? Are you a parent with a child experiencing behavioural issues? Are you or your child struggling with thoughts of depression, self-harm & suicide? Are you experiencing anxiety & work/school related issues? Do you have low self esteem? You have come to the right place! I would be honoured to support you. Whether it be helping to process events, providing support or learning different coping skills through evidence-based interventions, I can help!
(226) 917-2740 View (226) 917-2740
Photo of Kathleen Foldvari, BA, RSW, MSc, Registered Social Worker
Kathleen Foldvari
Registered Social Worker, BA, RSW, MSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3P
Are you experiencing high levels of stress in your life? Are you feeling stuck or discouraged? You are not alone. Kudos to you for exploring your options to find well-being again. I offer psychotherapy services to individuals, couples and small groups. I focus on helping my clients gain insights into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, in order to empower them to better manage stress, anxiety, depression, addiction and other challenges. I have experience working with first responders, healthcare staff, folks in high stress jobs, and those dealing with family conflict.
Are you experiencing high levels of stress in your life? Are you feeling stuck or discouraged? You are not alone. Kudos to you for exploring your options to find well-being again. I offer psychotherapy services to individuals, couples and small groups. I focus on helping my clients gain insights into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, in order to empower them to better manage stress, anxiety, depression, addiction and other challenges. I have experience working with first responders, healthcare staff, folks in high stress jobs, and those dealing with family conflict.
(226) 241-8707 View (226) 241-8707
Photo of Charlene Mercer - Cobblestone Counselling Group, Registered Social Worker
Cobblestone Counselling Group
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3P
We offer private In-person, phone and video Counselling and Psychotherapy services in Paris, Ontario. Are you struggling to understand and cope with challenges in your personal or professional life? Cobblestone Counselling and Psychotherapy group offers children, individuals, families and couples counselling. Like all services at Cobblestone, Counselling services are focused on treating people holistically. We see the person as a whole and employ a person centred, collaborative and integrative approach to counselling and therapy. Finding a therapist uniquely fitting to your needs is significant to us at Cobblestone.
We offer private In-person, phone and video Counselling and Psychotherapy services in Paris, Ontario. Are you struggling to understand and cope with challenges in your personal or professional life? Cobblestone Counselling and Psychotherapy group offers children, individuals, families and couples counselling. Like all services at Cobblestone, Counselling services are focused on treating people holistically. We see the person as a whole and employ a person centred, collaborative and integrative approach to counselling and therapy. Finding a therapist uniquely fitting to your needs is significant to us at Cobblestone.
(519) 442-2237 View (519) 442-2237

Online Therapists

Photo of Appoline Lydia Nimbeshaho, RP, MDiv, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Appoline Lydia Nimbeshaho
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP, MDiv, BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9C  (Online Only)
With over six years of professional training, fluent in French and English, I offer culturally sensitive therapy tailored to diverse clients, BIPOC, Afro-Black communities, and beyond.
Creating a safe environment where clients feel empowered to share their stories is at the heart of my practice. My therapy approach is trauma-informed and person-centered, combining evidence-based modalities to meet each client's needs. I have experience in supporting clients from diverse backgrounds who have experienced trauma, PTSD, grief, burnout, chronic anger, depression, anxiety, suicide ideations, Relationship issues, and life transitions. Together, we can work towards gaining independence in managing your wellness. I provide personalized care that is unique to you. I believe therapy should adapt to the individual's needs.
With over six years of professional training, fluent in French and English, I offer culturally sensitive therapy tailored to diverse clients, BIPOC, Afro-Black communities, and beyond.
Creating a safe environment where clients feel empowered to share their stories is at the heart of my practice. My therapy approach is trauma-informed and person-centered, combining evidence-based modalities to meet each client's needs. I have experience in supporting clients from diverse backgrounds who have experienced trauma, PTSD, grief, burnout, chronic anger, depression, anxiety, suicide ideations, Relationship issues, and life transitions. Together, we can work towards gaining independence in managing your wellness. I provide personalized care that is unique to you. I believe therapy should adapt to the individual's needs.
(289) 274-7332 View (289) 274-7332
Photo of Natalie Guimond, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Natalie Guimond
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C
We might be a good fit if it is important to you that your therapist holds anti-racist, anti-oppressive values, is trauma-informed and goes at your own pace, has lived experience (of Black-mixed race identity, being a child of an immigrant/Caribbean parent, mental health challenges, gender-based trauma, queerness), and has a good sense of humour!.
As a human being on my own healing and wellness journey, I believe we all have the capacity to heal from and grow through whatever life challenges we may be facing, have faced in the past, or will encounter in the future. But we're not meant to do it alone. As your therapist, sharing a genuine (not clinical feeling) connection is important to me. My aim is to create a warm, affirming and non-judgemental space to share, learn, grow and heal.
We might be a good fit if it is important to you that your therapist holds anti-racist, anti-oppressive values, is trauma-informed and goes at your own pace, has lived experience (of Black-mixed race identity, being a child of an immigrant/Caribbean parent, mental health challenges, gender-based trauma, queerness), and has a good sense of humour!.
As a human being on my own healing and wellness journey, I believe we all have the capacity to heal from and grow through whatever life challenges we may be facing, have faced in the past, or will encounter in the future. But we're not meant to do it alone. As your therapist, sharing a genuine (not clinical feeling) connection is important to me. My aim is to create a warm, affirming and non-judgemental space to share, learn, grow and heal.
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Photo of Rachel Maveneka - R. Maveneka Social Work Professional Corp, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
R. Maveneka Social Work Professional Corp
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5V  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Raei (ray) of Sunshine, Black-identified and African. As a client, you realize there is more to life and come ready to do the work of expanding into the Being you really are. As your Psychotherapist, I create a safe space to explore You whilst navigating challenges that impact your Mental Wellness such as, daily stressors, past and current traumas, habits and relationships that no longer serve your highest good, and anything else impressed upon you. I’ll meet you where you are at, and take you to where you want to be. (Mental Wellness; Black Community Mental Health; Law of Attraction; Mindfulness)
Welcome! I'm Raei (ray) of Sunshine, Black-identified and African. As a client, you realize there is more to life and come ready to do the work of expanding into the Being you really are. As your Psychotherapist, I create a safe space to explore You whilst navigating challenges that impact your Mental Wellness such as, daily stressors, past and current traumas, habits and relationships that no longer serve your highest good, and anything else impressed upon you. I’ll meet you where you are at, and take you to where you want to be. (Mental Wellness; Black Community Mental Health; Law of Attraction; Mindfulness)
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Photo of Michael Adia (Hope Leads Mental Health Care), MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Michael Adia (Hope Leads Mental Health Care)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5A  (Online Only)
He is also the co-founder of Hope Leads Mental Health Care, a Black and Filipino owned psychotherapy practice.
Michael provides counseling and psychotherapy to adults, 18 years and older. He can support you in learning practical skills in managing mood and dealing with experiences of oppression. Michael is also here to help you build tools in working through grief and loss, non traditional relationships (i.e. open, polyamorous), gender journey, and complex health/mental health challenges including addictions. He is also a goal oriented therapist and works to ensure that each therapy session is productive.
He is also the co-founder of Hope Leads Mental Health Care, a Black and Filipino owned psychotherapy practice.
Michael provides counseling and psychotherapy to adults, 18 years and older. He can support you in learning practical skills in managing mood and dealing with experiences of oppression. Michael is also here to help you build tools in working through grief and loss, non traditional relationships (i.e. open, polyamorous), gender journey, and complex health/mental health challenges including addictions. He is also a goal oriented therapist and works to ensure that each therapy session is productive.
(647) 699-6867 View (647) 699-6867
Photo of Gillian Wells, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Gillian Wells
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2V
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with African, Caribbean, Black & people of colour by providing anti-oppressive & culturally sensitive evidenced based interventions.
I am a registered Social Worker with over 20 yrs of experience delivering psychotherapy to individuals, couples & families. I am a goal oriented and problem-solving focused therapist who will work with you to help address your concerns.
I specialize in working with African, Caribbean, Black & people of colour by providing anti-oppressive & culturally sensitive evidenced based interventions.
I am a registered Social Worker with over 20 yrs of experience delivering psychotherapy to individuals, couples & families. I am a goal oriented and problem-solving focused therapist who will work with you to help address your concerns.
(548) 483-6578 x23 View (548) 483-6578 x23
Photo of Larae Harbour, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Larae Harbour
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4E
Are you looking for a therapist who will celebrate you for you as you explore connecting to your truths and healing? Would you like to feel seen, have your voice heard, and get active support when going through a life transition? I offer a kind and gentle approach to address the impacts of trauma, anxiety, depression, and complex stressors. As a therapist who is black, trans, and queer, I bring my whole authentic self to create a safer container for the therapist and client relationship. Together we can process trauma or complex situations, and develop tools for advocating and supporting you.
Are you looking for a therapist who will celebrate you for you as you explore connecting to your truths and healing? Would you like to feel seen, have your voice heard, and get active support when going through a life transition? I offer a kind and gentle approach to address the impacts of trauma, anxiety, depression, and complex stressors. As a therapist who is black, trans, and queer, I bring my whole authentic self to create a safer container for the therapist and client relationship. Together we can process trauma or complex situations, and develop tools for advocating and supporting you.
(289) 806-3049 View (289) 806-3049
Photo of Susan Bascillo, BSW, MSW, RSW, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Susan Bascillo
Registered Psychotherapist, BSW, MSW, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4K
Congratulations! You have made one of the most important decisions for your well-being. Seeking therapy can be very challenging and overwhelming. As a Black therapist, I understand the shame, negative stigma and connotations that come with seeking therapy. I will like to assure you; you have made the right choice to take care of you! I provide trauma inform and LGBTQ friendly counselling to individuals, family, couples and youths 16 + in the areas of • Workplace & School Stress • Stress Management • Shame and Guilt • Feeling Stuck • Anger Management • Depression and Anxiety • Generational Trauma • Relationship Conflict
Congratulations! You have made one of the most important decisions for your well-being. Seeking therapy can be very challenging and overwhelming. As a Black therapist, I understand the shame, negative stigma and connotations that come with seeking therapy. I will like to assure you; you have made the right choice to take care of you! I provide trauma inform and LGBTQ friendly counselling to individuals, family, couples and youths 16 + in the areas of • Workplace & School Stress • Stress Management • Shame and Guilt • Feeling Stuck • Anger Management • Depression and Anxiety • Generational Trauma • Relationship Conflict
(647) 697-7609 View (647) 697-7609
Photo of Najma Abdi, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Najma Abdi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5A  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) providing individual therapy to youth and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, racial Identity, trauma, interpersonal issues, life’s transition and grief. Life challenges can be immense for those of us who come from racialized and diverse backgrounds. As a Black Muslim Woman, I am mindful of the many intersecting identities that can influence an individual’s life and incorporate this into my therapeutic approach.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) providing individual therapy to youth and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, racial Identity, trauma, interpersonal issues, life’s transition and grief. Life challenges can be immense for those of us who come from racialized and diverse backgrounds. As a Black Muslim Woman, I am mindful of the many intersecting identities that can influence an individual’s life and incorporate this into my therapeutic approach.
(437) 747-7202 View (437) 747-7202
Photo of Rhonda Hazel Andall, RSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker
Rhonda Hazel Andall
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1G
, Black identified cisgender women, I am a survivor of physical abuse/domestic violence and believe that Black individuals often deter from seeking therapy due to cultural stereotypes.
You have everything, yet nothing. You try to make meaning of your life, but deep down a feeling of emptiness lingers. You deeply want to feel a genuine sense of happiness, but sadness overwhelms you. The deep wound of your past has you in a state of depression, anxiety, anger, and chronic stress. You have uncontrollable thoughts you try to ignore but cannot. Living with a sense of peace is hard to gain and you are exhausted. These feelings are affecting your relationships, your employment, academic pursuits or just your ability to manage day to day activities. If this sounds familiar, I am here to help.
, Black identified cisgender women, I am a survivor of physical abuse/domestic violence and believe that Black individuals often deter from seeking therapy due to cultural stereotypes.
You have everything, yet nothing. You try to make meaning of your life, but deep down a feeling of emptiness lingers. You deeply want to feel a genuine sense of happiness, but sadness overwhelms you. The deep wound of your past has you in a state of depression, anxiety, anger, and chronic stress. You have uncontrollable thoughts you try to ignore but cannot. Living with a sense of peace is hard to gain and you are exhausted. These feelings are affecting your relationships, your employment, academic pursuits or just your ability to manage day to day activities. If this sounds familiar, I am here to help.
(365) 536-0041 View (365) 536-0041
Photo of Marty Lampkin - Bri Counselling, RSW, MSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker
Marty Lampkin - Bri Counselling
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6W  (Online Only)
My clinical work is also dedicated to working with African, Caribbean, Black & racialized peoples impacted by systemic forms of oppression.
Marty Lampkin (she/her) is a compassionate and dedicated counsellor, clinical social worker, Professor and social justice advocate who grounds her practice in an Anti-oppression, Anti-colonial and decolonizing methods. I firmly believes that interlocking systems of oppression ingrained in our society contribute to personal life challenges children, youth and adults experience. As a counsellor I work to explore these intersections through a holistic perspective to help clients recognize their strength and resilience to reach their personal goals.
My clinical work is also dedicated to working with African, Caribbean, Black & racialized peoples impacted by systemic forms of oppression.
Marty Lampkin (she/her) is a compassionate and dedicated counsellor, clinical social worker, Professor and social justice advocate who grounds her practice in an Anti-oppression, Anti-colonial and decolonizing methods. I firmly believes that interlocking systems of oppression ingrained in our society contribute to personal life challenges children, youth and adults experience. As a counsellor I work to explore these intersections through a holistic perspective to help clients recognize their strength and resilience to reach their personal goals.
(289) 275-6515 View (289) 275-6515
Photo of Nora Elmi - Elmi Counselling and Wellness Services , Registered Social Worker
Elmi Counselling and Wellness Services
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4B  (Online Only)
Elmi Counselling and Wellness Services is an Ontario based virtual private practice offering individual, couples, as well as child and family therapy. We offer culturally relevant and trauma informed services anchored in anti-racism and anti-oppressive frameworks. Our team of skilled Black therapists are here to support you in navigating challenges in your life, reduce stress and to begin to live a life rooted in health and wellness. We support clients with Anxiety, Burnout, Depression, Relational conflict, Family Dynamics, Women's Issues and Stress... among many other issues!
Elmi Counselling and Wellness Services is an Ontario based virtual private practice offering individual, couples, as well as child and family therapy. We offer culturally relevant and trauma informed services anchored in anti-racism and anti-oppressive frameworks. Our team of skilled Black therapists are here to support you in navigating challenges in your life, reduce stress and to begin to live a life rooted in health and wellness. We support clients with Anxiety, Burnout, Depression, Relational conflict, Family Dynamics, Women's Issues and Stress... among many other issues!
(343) 600-1732 View (343) 600-1732

See more therapy options for Brantford

Black 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.