Black and African American Therapists in Chicago, IL
I am a LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and particularly enjoy working with Black, Brown, Indigenous, and POC clients.
Searching for a therapist can be overwhelming, even more so when you are going through life challenges and have limited energy to spare. Therapy can provide a space for healing, clarity, and growth, and the relationship between therapist and client has been found to be the most important ingredient in that process. I approach my work with flexibility, compassion, and a deep respect for self-determination. I firmly believe you are the expert in your experience.
I am a LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and particularly enjoy working with Black, Brown, Indigenous, and POC clients.
Searching for a therapist can be overwhelming, even more so when you are going through life challenges and have limited energy to spare. Therapy can provide a space for healing, clarity, and growth, and the relationship between therapist and client has been found to be the most important ingredient in that process. I approach my work with flexibility, compassion, and a deep respect for self-determination. I firmly believe you are the expert in your experience.
I identify as a Black, queer, disabled/Blind, polyamorous woman, and if we share any of the above identities, I may be the therapist for you! I name the above because these identities and the experiences associated with them inform how I show up in my practice as a therapist. All of who I am comes into the room. Likewise, I encourage clients to show up in their own authenticity. I lead with compassion and work with my clients to co-create a therapeutic environment that is collaborative, trusting, and creative.
I identify as a Black, queer, disabled/Blind, polyamorous woman, and if we share any of the above identities, I may be the therapist for you! I name the above because these identities and the experiences associated with them inform how I show up in my practice as a therapist. All of who I am comes into the room. Likewise, I encourage clients to show up in their own authenticity. I lead with compassion and work with my clients to co-create a therapeutic environment that is collaborative, trusting, and creative.
Finding a therapist can be difficult, but finding a trusted, culturally competent therapist is extremely important. Having a therapist that is the same gender and race as you is not a requirement for therapy, however in my years of experience it has served as a positive vehicle for healing. In a society where there is a history of Black Women being marginalized, therapy provides a path to recognizing our power and the strength that we possess.
Finding a therapist can be difficult, but finding a trusted, culturally competent therapist is extremely important. Having a therapist that is the same gender and race as you is not a requirement for therapy, however in my years of experience it has served as a positive vehicle for healing. In a society where there is a history of Black Women being marginalized, therapy provides a path to recognizing our power and the strength that we possess.
Dinah Hudson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615 (Online Only)
As a queer Black person who has done their own healing work, it became my mission to establish the therapeutic space I provide as trauma-informed. As such, I strive toward building a fundamental anti-oppressive space, one where your intersectionalities are respected and your healing is centered. Bringing these intentions to the space I provide makes doing the work that healing requires that much more possible for the communities I serve.
As a queer Black person who has done their own healing work, it became my mission to establish the therapeutic space I provide as trauma-informed. As such, I strive toward building a fundamental anti-oppressive space, one where your intersectionalities are respected and your healing is centered. Bringing these intentions to the space I provide makes doing the work that healing requires that much more possible for the communities I serve.
With a background in community organizing and social justice advocacy I aim to intentionally provide a therapeutic brave space for Black lesbians and non-binary Black people.
One of the hardest steps of the therapeutic process is what you’re going through now. Searching to find the counselor that aligns with your needs can feel daunting. I commend you for taking the first steps. My long experience with finding a therapist with shared identities and values was the catalyst to me entering the counseling profession. I value creating a space where transformation can occur through exchanges of knowledge from your life experience and my education. The theories I intend to integrate into the space are Psychodynamic and Adlerian. I remain open to other theories according to what best meets your needs.
With a background in community organizing and social justice advocacy I aim to intentionally provide a therapeutic brave space for Black lesbians and non-binary Black people.
One of the hardest steps of the therapeutic process is what you’re going through now. Searching to find the counselor that aligns with your needs can feel daunting. I commend you for taking the first steps. My long experience with finding a therapist with shared identities and values was the catalyst to me entering the counseling profession. I value creating a space where transformation can occur through exchanges of knowledge from your life experience and my education. The theories I intend to integrate into the space are Psychodynamic and Adlerian. I remain open to other theories according to what best meets your needs.
Hailing from the vibrant city of Chicago, IL, Talia Stewart brings a decade of experience in education to her role as a Virtual Mental Health Consultant at Quantum. Holding a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Talia has dedicated her career to nurturing the mental well-being of individuals, particularly within the Black and Brown communities.
Hailing from the vibrant city of Chicago, IL, Talia Stewart brings a decade of experience in education to her role as a Virtual Mental Health Consultant at Quantum. Holding a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Talia has dedicated her career to nurturing the mental well-being of individuals, particularly within the Black and Brown communities.
David Triche
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
As a Black gay male therapist, I bring a deeply personal understanding of the isolation and challenges faced by individuals with marginalized identities. My own journey and experience with clients have given me deep insights into the struggle of feeling voiceless and the impact of being misunderstood, and feeling unheard, which fuels my commitment to creating a therapeutic space where you are truly seen and valued. I have a passion in working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ clients, I specialize in high conflict couples, trauma, grief, socio-cultural issues, identity development, and managing life transitions.
As a Black gay male therapist, I bring a deeply personal understanding of the isolation and challenges faced by individuals with marginalized identities. My own journey and experience with clients have given me deep insights into the struggle of feeling voiceless and the impact of being misunderstood, and feeling unheard, which fuels my commitment to creating a therapeutic space where you are truly seen and valued. I have a passion in working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ clients, I specialize in high conflict couples, trauma, grief, socio-cultural issues, identity development, and managing life transitions.
Rosondunnii Marshall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60653 (Online Only)
My work within the Black community and with individuals of color is driven by a deep respect for cultural diversity and a commitment to addressing systemic inequalities.
My ideal client is someone who is willing to embrace change for their own betterment—a person who is open to exploring new ways of thinking and acting; and committed or at least curious about their personal growth journey. I believe in the power of collaboration and mutual respect in the therapeutic process, where we work together to uncover strengths and strategies that empower you to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience. I bring a nuanced understanding of developmental stages and the unique challenges individuals, couples, young people, and families face.
My work within the Black community and with individuals of color is driven by a deep respect for cultural diversity and a commitment to addressing systemic inequalities.
My ideal client is someone who is willing to embrace change for their own betterment—a person who is open to exploring new ways of thinking and acting; and committed or at least curious about their personal growth journey. I believe in the power of collaboration and mutual respect in the therapeutic process, where we work together to uncover strengths and strategies that empower you to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience. I bring a nuanced understanding of developmental stages and the unique challenges individuals, couples, young people, and families face.
Lolita Drummond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
Hello! I am delighted to introduce myself to you. My name is Li Drummond. I have worked with many different presenting issues including adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, suicide risk, stress, loss, trauma, struggles with drugs and alcohol, family problems, child welfare, family problems, offenders, and relationship difficulties. I feel comfortable working with clients ranging in age from children to adults and feel especially well-equipped to work with clients facing discrimination and marginalization including members of various immigrant communities, LGBTQIA+ clientele, black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC).
Hello! I am delighted to introduce myself to you. My name is Li Drummond. I have worked with many different presenting issues including adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, suicide risk, stress, loss, trauma, struggles with drugs and alcohol, family problems, child welfare, family problems, offenders, and relationship difficulties. I feel comfortable working with clients ranging in age from children to adults and feel especially well-equipped to work with clients facing discrimination and marginalization including members of various immigrant communities, LGBTQIA+ clientele, black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC).
Marla Seals
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60653 (Online Only)
While I treat individuals from all socioeconomic, racial and cultural backgrounds, I have dedicated my career to providing quality therapeutic services to marginalized communities, including black single-mothers, justice-involved individuals and those that struggle with navigating the daily challenges faced by living in an urban environment.
I'm delighted that you have encountered my profile and taken an active, and courageous step in your healing journey. I bring a down-to-earth, approachable presence to therapy and place the utmost importance on fostering a warm and friendly, yet professional relationship with you. Developing a strong therapeutic alliance is the foundation that will support you as we explore pathways toward your healing, develop adaptive and functional coping skills, improve your emotional regulation, and help you experience a fulfilling life, rather than just exist.
While I treat individuals from all socioeconomic, racial and cultural backgrounds, I have dedicated my career to providing quality therapeutic services to marginalized communities, including black single-mothers, justice-involved individuals and those that struggle with navigating the daily challenges faced by living in an urban environment.
I'm delighted that you have encountered my profile and taken an active, and courageous step in your healing journey. I bring a down-to-earth, approachable presence to therapy and place the utmost importance on fostering a warm and friendly, yet professional relationship with you. Developing a strong therapeutic alliance is the foundation that will support you as we explore pathways toward your healing, develop adaptive and functional coping skills, improve your emotional regulation, and help you experience a fulfilling life, rather than just exist.
I am Tony Johnson, a pre-licensed professional with a PhD in Social Work and an MPH in community health interventions. With over 15 years of experience as a social justice leader and mental health advocate, I specialize in serving the LGBTQ and Black and Brown communities. My focus areas include resilience, psychological self-sufficiency, grief, and art therapy, aimed at empowering marginalized groups.
I am Tony Johnson, a pre-licensed professional with a PhD in Social Work and an MPH in community health interventions. With over 15 years of experience as a social justice leader and mental health advocate, I specialize in serving the LGBTQ and Black and Brown communities. My focus areas include resilience, psychological self-sufficiency, grief, and art therapy, aimed at empowering marginalized groups.
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Oftentimes, the most basic need that people have is to feel like they're being heard. I am experienced in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and struggle w/ depression and anxiety symptoms. I have completed extensive research regarding PTSD and depression in African American men and am comfortable working with any population and gender. Clients should come to see me because I work to understand their behavior as individuals in the context of the systems we exist within, whether they be work, school, family, or community.
Oftentimes, the most basic need that people have is to feel like they're being heard. I am experienced in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and struggle w/ depression and anxiety symptoms. I have completed extensive research regarding PTSD and depression in African American men and am comfortable working with any population and gender. Clients should come to see me because I work to understand their behavior as individuals in the context of the systems we exist within, whether they be work, school, family, or community.
Jalesia Syas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60655 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I provide authentic support, driven by a deep commitment to breaking stigmas, educating, and empowering marginalized Black and Brown communities, with a particular focus on youth sexual health.
Are you a parent seeking guidance as your teenager navigates puberty? An adult in need of authentic support? A veteran transitioning to civilian life? Do you crave a safe, non-judgmental space for self-exploration? Everyone deserves a village. As a Black-Woman, lesbian licensed therapist and veteran with over 5 years of dedicated clinical and non-profit experience working with youth in care, my calling is to guide individuals across life stages. However, my profound commitment and unwavering passion are devoted to serving marginalized communities through an authentic, spiritual, and holistic approach.
I provide authentic support, driven by a deep commitment to breaking stigmas, educating, and empowering marginalized Black and Brown communities, with a particular focus on youth sexual health.
Are you a parent seeking guidance as your teenager navigates puberty? An adult in need of authentic support? A veteran transitioning to civilian life? Do you crave a safe, non-judgmental space for self-exploration? Everyone deserves a village. As a Black-Woman, lesbian licensed therapist and veteran with over 5 years of dedicated clinical and non-profit experience working with youth in care, my calling is to guide individuals across life stages. However, my profound commitment and unwavering passion are devoted to serving marginalized communities through an authentic, spiritual, and holistic approach.
Summer Stewart
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625 (Online Only)
As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in person-centered therapy with a profound commitment to serving Black and Brown women. Passionate about addressing specific challenges faced by these women, I integrate cultural competence with therapeutic techniques like mindfulness, feminist theory, and internal family systems. My approach is grounded in a decolonized perspective, taking note that traditional therapy often reflects dominant cultural norms. I strive to challenge the ways in which systemic biases and cultural assumptions impact mental health care, ensuring that my clients receive support that honors their lived experiences.
As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in person-centered therapy with a profound commitment to serving Black and Brown women. Passionate about addressing specific challenges faced by these women, I integrate cultural competence with therapeutic techniques like mindfulness, feminist theory, and internal family systems. My approach is grounded in a decolonized perspective, taking note that traditional therapy often reflects dominant cultural norms. I strive to challenge the ways in which systemic biases and cultural assumptions impact mental health care, ensuring that my clients receive support that honors their lived experiences.
Collective Insight
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP, MS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
I identify as a cisgender Black gay male.
I am passionate about using evidence-based practices to help all clients achieve their goals and improve their mental health. I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing difficulty with gender identity, sexuality/sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, career transitions, healthy living, work-life balance, stress management, and general mental health concerns (e.g., depression, anxiety, mood instability, etc.). I believe that it is vital for people to trust the therapeutic space and know that it is safe, welcoming, and free of judgment. I work with clients to help them identify goals of treatment that are align
I identify as a cisgender Black gay male.
I am passionate about using evidence-based practices to help all clients achieve their goals and improve their mental health. I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing difficulty with gender identity, sexuality/sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, career transitions, healthy living, work-life balance, stress management, and general mental health concerns (e.g., depression, anxiety, mood instability, etc.). I believe that it is vital for people to trust the therapeutic space and know that it is safe, welcoming, and free of judgment. I work with clients to help them identify goals of treatment that are align
I specialize in supporting Black men and adolescents in becoming the best version of themselves.
I am currently accepting new clients, and I offer in-person and telehealth therapy. I help people navigate their lives with understanding for who they are in a complex world. I want to know who you are, what systems and barriers are getting in your way, and how I can support you in exploring a path that is right for you. I am passionate about exploring identity and the way the world sees us, how we see ourselves, and how it shapes the challenges we face. I work with people navigating issues around race, relationships, gender, sexuality, and personal growth.
I specialize in supporting Black men and adolescents in becoming the best version of themselves.
I am currently accepting new clients, and I offer in-person and telehealth therapy. I help people navigate their lives with understanding for who they are in a complex world. I want to know who you are, what systems and barriers are getting in your way, and how I can support you in exploring a path that is right for you. I am passionate about exploring identity and the way the world sees us, how we see ourselves, and how it shapes the challenges we face. I work with people navigating issues around race, relationships, gender, sexuality, and personal growth.
Navigating life as a black woman comes with many unique challenges.
I'm so glad you're here! I am a licensed clinical professional counselor from Chicago IL. I have 14 years of experience providing therapy to an array of clients such as caregivers of people living with Alzheimer's disease, women, people of color and the LGBTQIA+ community. Do you want to get rid of imposter syndrome or learn how to love yourself? Connect with me to learn how to get past barriers to healing. I have experience working with people attempting to cope with many concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief, relational issues, career & work situations, self-esteem and caregiver stress.
Navigating life as a black woman comes with many unique challenges.
I'm so glad you're here! I am a licensed clinical professional counselor from Chicago IL. I have 14 years of experience providing therapy to an array of clients such as caregivers of people living with Alzheimer's disease, women, people of color and the LGBTQIA+ community. Do you want to get rid of imposter syndrome or learn how to love yourself? Connect with me to learn how to get past barriers to healing. I have experience working with people attempting to cope with many concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief, relational issues, career & work situations, self-esteem and caregiver stress.
Lyrra Isanberg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640 (Online Only)
My specialties include couples therapy, sex therapy, and therapy with individuals and couples who identify as Black and/or multiracial.
I believe that problems are best understood in the context of relationships - with loved ones, with intimate partners, and with oneself. Perhaps you are noticing room for improvement in one or in multiple relationships, or perhaps you have a strong desire for increased understanding of yourself and others. It takes a great deal of insight and strength to even begin this journey towards greater harmony. My hope as a clinician is to help foster within you a sense of renewed curiosity, compassion, and hope as you undertake this journey.
My specialties include couples therapy, sex therapy, and therapy with individuals and couples who identify as Black and/or multiracial.
I believe that problems are best understood in the context of relationships - with loved ones, with intimate partners, and with oneself. Perhaps you are noticing room for improvement in one or in multiple relationships, or perhaps you have a strong desire for increased understanding of yourself and others. It takes a great deal of insight and strength to even begin this journey towards greater harmony. My hope as a clinician is to help foster within you a sense of renewed curiosity, compassion, and hope as you undertake this journey.
Bria Robinson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618 (Online Only)
The bravest thing you can do is begin to understand your own story. As a black woman, a sister, a daughter and a mother; I too have been in your shoes. Throughout life we are told we have to remain strong and we never get the opportunity to not be the strong one for once. This causes built up anxiety, depression and negative emotions which are then taken out on the ones we love the most. Are you ready to face the past trauma and experiences you have not had the opportunity to process? If so, I am the right therapist for you.
The bravest thing you can do is begin to understand your own story. As a black woman, a sister, a daughter and a mother; I too have been in your shoes. Throughout life we are told we have to remain strong and we never get the opportunity to not be the strong one for once. This causes built up anxiety, depression and negative emotions which are then taken out on the ones we love the most. Are you ready to face the past trauma and experiences you have not had the opportunity to process? If so, I am the right therapist for you.
The Self Inside
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604 (Online Only)
Coming to therapy as a black woman is hard, and it's even harder changing the trajectory of your family.
Have you noticed that there are many people in your family who keep secrets or struggle with expressing emotions? Have you noticed that you have similar traits or even health issues similar to older family members? This is intergenerational trauma. The way emotions are handled, health struggles and even stress can be passed down to younger generations. The Self Inside is the space for black women to heal from intergenerational trauma so they can not only change their life but the lives of future generations.
Coming to therapy as a black woman is hard, and it's even harder changing the trajectory of your family.
Have you noticed that there are many people in your family who keep secrets or struggle with expressing emotions? Have you noticed that you have similar traits or even health issues similar to older family members? This is intergenerational trauma. The way emotions are handled, health struggles and even stress can be passed down to younger generations. The Self Inside is the space for black women to heal from intergenerational trauma so they can not only change their life but the lives of future generations.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
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- Oak Park
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Black and African American Therapists
As an African American, why might I wish to see a therapist who is African American?
African American clients may seek out African American therapists for several reasons, foremost being a sense of cultural understanding and the possibility of shared experiences. Cultural sensitivity and context on the part of the therapist may make it easier to form a therapeutic alliance and to focus on the work of therapy without the need to explain or educate a therapist on cultural matters. It may also be empowering to work with a therapist who shares one’s racial or ethnic background. It is important to note that a therapist who demonstrates cultural sensitivity can be highly effective even if they do not share a client’s background or race.
Can clients benefit from working with a therapist who shares their race or ethnicity?
Yes, having a therapist who shares a client’s race or ethnicity is often valuable, especially if it fosters a strong therapeutic alliance between the two. While training, qualifications, and experience are always important, a strong alliance between client and therapist is a major contributor to therapeutic effectiveness. An alliance is likely to be strengthened with a therapist who has an understanding of a client’s background and perhaps also shared life experiences. It should be noted that many clients form a strong bond with their therapist regardless of their race or ethnicity. This is a personal decision, and it depends on the therapist, the client, and the connection between the two.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with African American clients?
Clients can ask therapists directly about their experience working with clients of diverse backgrounds, including with African American individuals. You may wish to inquire whether a therapist has undertaken training in cultural competence broadly, and how specifically they would ensure that their approach is sensitive to the needs of African American clients. Therapy involves honesty and trust, so it’s best for clients to share concerns about their therapist’s cultural competence at the outset. And a good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals based on the concerns you articulate.
Why is it important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive?
It’s important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive because everyone comes to therapy with a unique background and set of experiences. Being aware of culture and cultural differences between people is important for understanding clients, as is coming to therapy with an open mind, recognizing that the therapist doesn’t necessarily understand everything and that the client can help guide the way.
Who is included in Psychology Today's directory of Black therapists?
The directory of Black therapists includes therapists who have self-identified their ethnicity in their profiles. Psychology Today uses this information to assist clients in finding a therapist who can provide a cultural match. However, not all therapists choose to disclose their ethnicity in their profile, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. In situations where the number of therapists who have identified as Black is limited, the directory will also show therapists who have undergone specific multicultural training or have extensive experience working with clients from relevant cultural backgrounds.