Black Therapists in Waterloo, ON
![Photo of Gillian Wells, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ccdb955-a4a1-4d23-925e-3ebf6412140e/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Hazel-Ann Francis, MEd, CCC, OCT, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09cef75f-916e-473d-9c97-cea29a9d16a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hazel-Ann Francis
Counsellor, MEd, CCC, OCT
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2T (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a Black therapist, I believe racial trauma, anxiety, and depression are symptoms of systemic structures and Eurocentric norms that leave some people as benefactors and others harmed.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation, and racial trauma. I believe that people are the experts of their own lives and thrive when space and support are offered along the way. I have been an educator for over 15 years supporting youth and young adults who experience difficulties with life transitions.
As a Black therapist, I believe racial trauma, anxiety, and depression are symptoms of systemic structures and Eurocentric norms that leave some people as benefactors and others harmed.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation, and racial trauma. I believe that people are the experts of their own lives and thrive when space and support are offered along the way. I have been an educator for over 15 years supporting youth and young adults who experience difficulties with life transitions.
![Photo of Sherley Leitan Claymo, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bb75ecd-fb94-4868-9a1f-66e00dbd9a3f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sherley Leitan Claymo
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J (Online Only)
We put a lot on ourselves, we try to fit ourselves into boxes or stretch ourselves beyond our limits. Be the perfect person, child, student, sibling, friend, employee, partner, spouse, and the list goes on and on. Sound familiar? It's exhausting isn't it? We're not perfect (we can't be!), and not only that but the world is so complex and hard to deal with! Embracing our contradictions is part of what makes us beautifully human. Let me offer you a reprieve, a chance to unburden yourself and find solace with where you are on your journey through this chaotic world we have.
We put a lot on ourselves, we try to fit ourselves into boxes or stretch ourselves beyond our limits. Be the perfect person, child, student, sibling, friend, employee, partner, spouse, and the list goes on and on. Sound familiar? It's exhausting isn't it? We're not perfect (we can't be!), and not only that but the world is so complex and hard to deal with! Embracing our contradictions is part of what makes us beautifully human. Let me offer you a reprieve, a chance to unburden yourself and find solace with where you are on your journey through this chaotic world we have.
![Photo of Devon Jorge - Trillium Counselling, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d5e5291-c6ae-4f55-b964-31a3c2fe11de/1/320x400.png)
At Trillium Counselling our Therapy services are tailored to help individuals, couples, and families identify and reach their therapeutic goals. We specialize in a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, grief, trauma, life changes, couples therapy and more. Using evidence-based approaches, we help our clients learn new perspectives, deepen understanding, build connections, and find the motivation to embrace change. We offer personalized and inclusive counselling services in-person at our Waterloo office and online throughout Ontario. Our goal is to help you find a therapist that's the right fit for you.
At Trillium Counselling our Therapy services are tailored to help individuals, couples, and families identify and reach their therapeutic goals. We specialize in a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, grief, trauma, life changes, couples therapy and more. Using evidence-based approaches, we help our clients learn new perspectives, deepen understanding, build connections, and find the motivation to embrace change. We offer personalized and inclusive counselling services in-person at our Waterloo office and online throughout Ontario. Our goal is to help you find a therapist that's the right fit for you.
![Photo of Lolita Schmalenberg, RSW, GDipGC, GCertSH, BASc, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/faee2854-5557-4eb4-8595-16c57f2e0298/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lolita Schmalenberg
Registered Social Worker, RSW, GDipGC, GCertSH, BASc
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J
Mental wellness is a right - sometimes we need an unbiased supporter to help us get back on a healthier pathway. Whether you find yourself stuck due to work or school issues, are having difficulties in your relationship, are recovering from a trauma, dealing with anxiety or simply are looking to change behaviours that are no longer aligned with your goals, know that you don’t have to face this alone. Let me help you .
Mental wellness is a right - sometimes we need an unbiased supporter to help us get back on a healthier pathway. Whether you find yourself stuck due to work or school issues, are having difficulties in your relationship, are recovering from a trauma, dealing with anxiety or simply are looking to change behaviours that are no longer aligned with your goals, know that you don’t have to face this alone. Let me help you .
![Photo of Halima Fuller, MA, , RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eab5d569-dcc5-4c4f-8717-2be7929bb498/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with families, individuals, couples, and groups to provide support for relationship turbulence, grief, anxiety/depression, and life transitions, including immigration struggles. Clients may come to therapy feeling overwhelmed by stress, sadness, anger, fear, self doubt, substance use, shame, and a diminished sense of self or worth. I help them realize that adverse situations do not define them. As we work together, they gain the skills to overcome obstacles and to build positive, reciprocal relationships of value and mutual respect.
I work with families, individuals, couples, and groups to provide support for relationship turbulence, grief, anxiety/depression, and life transitions, including immigration struggles. Clients may come to therapy feeling overwhelmed by stress, sadness, anger, fear, self doubt, substance use, shame, and a diminished sense of self or worth. I help them realize that adverse situations do not define them. As we work together, they gain the skills to overcome obstacles and to build positive, reciprocal relationships of value and mutual respect.
![Photo of Janine Schultz - By Peaceful Waters , MSW, RSW, 422601, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f8ed546-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Life is difficult. Complex circumstances hit us all, often resulting in a diminished ability for us to live life to its fullest. Unresolved emotional pain and trauma can give rise to depression, anger, anxiety, low self-esteem, and abuse of self and others. By Peaceful Waters therapists combine our professional training and our Christian faith to bring healing and restoration to spiritual, emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and relational hurts. We offer a safe, non-judgmental and empathetic environment, nourishing hope and healing, in which the whole person is valued, affirmed and empowered, not just to survive but to thrive.
Life is difficult. Complex circumstances hit us all, often resulting in a diminished ability for us to live life to its fullest. Unresolved emotional pain and trauma can give rise to depression, anger, anxiety, low self-esteem, and abuse of self and others. By Peaceful Waters therapists combine our professional training and our Christian faith to bring healing and restoration to spiritual, emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and relational hurts. We offer a safe, non-judgmental and empathetic environment, nourishing hope and healing, in which the whole person is valued, affirmed and empowered, not just to survive but to thrive.
![Photo of John Roche - Transformation Counselling, In-Person & Online, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1322b397-0129-40c0-8657-31d9a79809ec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Transformation Counselling, In-Person & Online
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2J
Transformation Counselling is Waterloo's largest in-person and online private counselling centre with over 25 registered psychotherapists and registered social workers to choose from. We offer personalized and inclusive counselling services for adults, teens, couples, and families in-person and online. Our goal is to help you find a therapist that's the right fit for you so that you can get the help you need sooner than later.
Transformation Counselling is Waterloo's largest in-person and online private counselling centre with over 25 registered psychotherapists and registered social workers to choose from. We offer personalized and inclusive counselling services for adults, teens, couples, and families in-person and online. Our goal is to help you find a therapist that's the right fit for you so that you can get the help you need sooner than later.
![Photo of Gabrielle Lamm, RP (Q), BHsc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/627f648d-845e-4f57-8dd8-1dc05e894e62/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gabrielle Lamm
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), BHsc
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
If you are struggling with anxiety or depression, feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, or need help navigating your relationships, I am here to help. I offer compassionate support to individuals from diverse backgrounds, helping them address their current struggles, find relief, and build resilience toward navigating life’s ups and downs. Together, we will cultivate trust and openness as we explore your identity within the context of your relationships and cultural background. We will work together to amplify your strengths and develop tools to manage stress and maintain mental wellness.
If you are struggling with anxiety or depression, feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, or need help navigating your relationships, I am here to help. I offer compassionate support to individuals from diverse backgrounds, helping them address their current struggles, find relief, and build resilience toward navigating life’s ups and downs. Together, we will cultivate trust and openness as we explore your identity within the context of your relationships and cultural background. We will work together to amplify your strengths and develop tools to manage stress and maintain mental wellness.
![Photo of Jay Scott, BA (ip), CSW, AWCCA, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a85e35e-93b4-4a9b-b6b1-266c1d49098a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jay Scott
Registered Social Worker, BA (ip), CSW, AWCCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
I am passionate about working with a diverse set of communities, including people of colour, Indigenous communities, as well as immigrants. I specialize in the areas of mental health, trauma and infertility issues and works alongside clients who are struggling with anxiety and depression. With a musical background, I utilize music and art as a therapeutic tool to allow for clients to achieve their goals using creative methods.
I am passionate about working with a diverse set of communities, including people of colour, Indigenous communities, as well as immigrants. I specialize in the areas of mental health, trauma and infertility issues and works alongside clients who are struggling with anxiety and depression. With a musical background, I utilize music and art as a therapeutic tool to allow for clients to achieve their goals using creative methods.
![Photo of André Johnson, RP (Q), MACP, BAS, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ce8abef-97c3-4772-9518-6a143eba8476/1/320x400.jpeg)
André Johnson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), MACP, BAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2V
Hello! My name is André. If you have ever struggled with being seen, feeling heard, or validated as your authentic self, you have come to the right place. As your therapist, I will provide an empathetic and compassionate place for you to share your experiences, explore your emotions, and respect your truths. I use a client-centred, strength-based approach to assist individuals, couples, and families. I mainly draw on Person Centred Therapy (PCT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE).
Hello! My name is André. If you have ever struggled with being seen, feeling heard, or validated as your authentic self, you have come to the right place. As your therapist, I will provide an empathetic and compassionate place for you to share your experiences, explore your emotions, and respect your truths. I use a client-centred, strength-based approach to assist individuals, couples, and families. I mainly draw on Person Centred Therapy (PCT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE).
15 Second Videos
Halima Fuller
Jay Scott
Christian Couple And Individual Therapy Alerica Carr
Andre Watkis
Beauty From Ashes Counselling & Psychotherapy
Achlaï Ernest Wallace
Jessica Cragg
![Photo of Christian Couple And Individual Therapy Alerica Carr, BA, MACP(C), RP(Q), Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8edf88bd-8042-4f17-b66d-a1161876a04c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christian Couple And Individual Therapy Alerica Carr
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MACP(C), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L (Online Only)
Are you searching for a compassionate therapist who understands the unique intersection of faith and mental health? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by depression, or haunted by past traumas? Do you long for a therapist who not only understands your struggles but also offers a path to healing rooted in faith? My heartfelt mission is to walk alongside you as you discover hope, healing, and purpose through your Christian faith. I firmly believe that God's boundless love and grace are at the heart of our journey toward healing and transformation.
Are you searching for a compassionate therapist who understands the unique intersection of faith and mental health? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by depression, or haunted by past traumas? Do you long for a therapist who not only understands your struggles but also offers a path to healing rooted in faith? My heartfelt mission is to walk alongside you as you discover hope, healing, and purpose through your Christian faith. I firmly believe that God's boundless love and grace are at the heart of our journey toward healing and transformation.
![Photo of Dr. Kerris Oates, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c0183ae-4507-4c31-83ee-df959d981e71/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kerris Oates
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J (Online Only)
I have a passion for helping people attain optimal mental health, thru improved coping with life stressors/experiences and also personal healing/growth. Basically, I want to help you (or your child) thrive! I have extensive training and experience with a broad range of issues and treatment modalities. I am certified with the College of Psychologists of Ontario in the areas of Clinical & Counselling Psychology (both assessment & treatment) for Adults, Couples, Adolescents and Children. My approach is tailored for each unique client and also allows for the integration of spiritual issues into therapy when appropriate and desired.
I have a passion for helping people attain optimal mental health, thru improved coping with life stressors/experiences and also personal healing/growth. Basically, I want to help you (or your child) thrive! I have extensive training and experience with a broad range of issues and treatment modalities. I am certified with the College of Psychologists of Ontario in the areas of Clinical & Counselling Psychology (both assessment & treatment) for Adults, Couples, Adolescents and Children. My approach is tailored for each unique client and also allows for the integration of spiritual issues into therapy when appropriate and desired.
![Photo of Andre Watkis, HBSc, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a589bb93-fa79-4d9b-bc2d-3b0f1f15072f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Andre Watkis
Registered Social Worker, HBSc, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
Using advanced evidenced-based therapeutic practices, I provide compassionate, empathetic support and practical strategies to children, teens, adults and families to address challenges including, but not limited to, addictions, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, ASD, mood disorders, trauma, school challenges, stress, life transitions and interpersonal conflict. I am the co-founder and Clinical Director of the W Experience Counselling and Wellness Services and have been providing mental health and well-being support to children, adolescents, adults and seniors for over fourteen years. I am a registered social worker who holds
Using advanced evidenced-based therapeutic practices, I provide compassionate, empathetic support and practical strategies to children, teens, adults and families to address challenges including, but not limited to, addictions, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, ASD, mood disorders, trauma, school challenges, stress, life transitions and interpersonal conflict. I am the co-founder and Clinical Director of the W Experience Counselling and Wellness Services and have been providing mental health and well-being support to children, adolescents, adults and seniors for over fourteen years. I am a registered social worker who holds
![Photo of Doug Jones, MTS, AAMFTCF, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9bd6138-7603-43af-8020-60445e56f238/3/320x400.jpeg)
Doug Jones
Registered Social Worker, MTS, AAMFTCF, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J
Your Way Counselling is about helping good people achieve the psychological well-being, relationships, self image, and mental health they want. Services are Family Therapy based and build on your strengths. You may find that you already have the knowledge you need to achieve your goals and yet choose to have professional support to gain confidence in yourself. Whether you are feeling completely overwhelmed or want support to deal with relationships and behavioural issues that are affecting your wellbeing and mental health please feel free to call. We can talk over your needs and make a plan that suits you.
Your Way Counselling is about helping good people achieve the psychological well-being, relationships, self image, and mental health they want. Services are Family Therapy based and build on your strengths. You may find that you already have the knowledge you need to achieve your goals and yet choose to have professional support to gain confidence in yourself. Whether you are feeling completely overwhelmed or want support to deal with relationships and behavioural issues that are affecting your wellbeing and mental health please feel free to call. We can talk over your needs and make a plan that suits you.
![Photo of Petra Gordon - Beauty From Ashes Counselling & Psychotherapy, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c754dafc-0fa5-44fd-a842-68e9c96ad0b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beauty From Ashes Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J (Online Only)
Every person experiences grief and loss within their lifetime. You may be dealing with a loss of a job, health, or grieving the death of a loved one. This may leave you feeling unsure about what to do next. You may start to question your identity, purpose and meaning for your life. It may seem hard to see the possibilities of hope in the midst of the adversity that you are facing. You want to be able to move forward in life, but are often weighed down by the grief. Functioning in your life is becoming difficult. You want to find a way to deal with the pain, so that you can find a way to still be able to enjoy life.
Every person experiences grief and loss within their lifetime. You may be dealing with a loss of a job, health, or grieving the death of a loved one. This may leave you feeling unsure about what to do next. You may start to question your identity, purpose and meaning for your life. It may seem hard to see the possibilities of hope in the midst of the adversity that you are facing. You want to be able to move forward in life, but are often weighed down by the grief. Functioning in your life is becoming difficult. You want to find a way to deal with the pain, so that you can find a way to still be able to enjoy life.
![Photo of Wokeyim Adagbor, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7bab9b6f-2a6f-4ff4-9c1d-3c8766a62169/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you want to change your viewpoint and overcome difficulties, conquer your fears, and work beyond symptoms to solutions? Are you feeling depressed, anxious, lonely, or do you just want to talk with someone? I am here to listen. I love supporting people and bringing out the best in them.
Do you want to change your viewpoint and overcome difficulties, conquer your fears, and work beyond symptoms to solutions? Are you feeling depressed, anxious, lonely, or do you just want to talk with someone? I am here to listen. I love supporting people and bringing out the best in them.
![Photo of Joyce Sijia Luo, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eb35d782-f6fd-40b1-8a86-0c6f0149db5d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joyce Sijia Luo
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! I speak both English and Mandarin fluently. As a Registered Social Worker (RSW) and Psychotherapist, I have extensive experience engaging in mental health field, and specialize working with older adolescents, post-secondary students and young adults in the Chinese, Mandarin-Speaking community with Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT). It is a privilege and honor to connect with you and I look forward to supporting your mental health journey.
Accepting new clients! I speak both English and Mandarin fluently. As a Registered Social Worker (RSW) and Psychotherapist, I have extensive experience engaging in mental health field, and specialize working with older adolescents, post-secondary students and young adults in the Chinese, Mandarin-Speaking community with Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT). It is a privilege and honor to connect with you and I look forward to supporting your mental health journey.
![Photo of Achlaï Ernest Wallace, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6d86266-d630-4018-81db-d94dcfe58880/2/320x400.jpeg)
Achlaï Ernest Wallace
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2J
Do you feel alone in your relationship or exhausted by life's constant demands? Do you feel like your relationship is in shambles? Do you feel desperate to be understood by your significant other? Sometimes it feels like all you do in your relationship is argue and fight. And you don't like the person you and your partner are becoming. Change IS possible and there IS a way forward. Peace of mind, peace in the home & restoration can be goals we will work on together, with a clear plan, toward hope and true harmony.
Do you feel alone in your relationship or exhausted by life's constant demands? Do you feel like your relationship is in shambles? Do you feel desperate to be understood by your significant other? Sometimes it feels like all you do in your relationship is argue and fight. And you don't like the person you and your partner are becoming. Change IS possible and there IS a way forward. Peace of mind, peace in the home & restoration can be goals we will work on together, with a clear plan, toward hope and true harmony.
![Photo of Jessica Cragg, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c9312c9-d24b-43be-8f2c-a120ea3c6d35/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anxiety, Depression and Trauma Therapist: You’ve experienced distressing event(s) that have impacted your ability to move forward. You fluctuate between feelings of worry, sadness and hopelessness. At night you have difficulty sleeping and throughout the day you experience constant reminders of the event. You feel the world is unsafe so you avoid certain situations, places and people and you have a hard time trusting others. You want nothing more than to be able to feel calm and experience happiness again. If you’re ready to break the cycle and build confidence in yourself, you’ve landed on the right profile.
Anxiety, Depression and Trauma Therapist: You’ve experienced distressing event(s) that have impacted your ability to move forward. You fluctuate between feelings of worry, sadness and hopelessness. At night you have difficulty sleeping and throughout the day you experience constant reminders of the event. You feel the world is unsafe so you avoid certain situations, places and people and you have a hard time trusting others. You want nothing more than to be able to feel calm and experience happiness again. If you’re ready to break the cycle and build confidence in yourself, you’ve landed on the right profile.
See more therapy options for Waterloo
Nearby Black Counsellors Searches for Waterloo
- Ancaster
- Brampton
- Brantford
- Burlington
- Cambridge
- Georgetown
- Guelph
- Hamilton
- Kitchener
- Milton
- Oakville
- Woodstock
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.