Black and African American Therapists in Ohio
![Photo of Ashley R. Jamison, MSW, LSW, LICDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fdf5d609-7c72-49e7-8164-376a3392d5d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley R. Jamison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LICDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45459 (Online Only)
Alice Walker said, "the most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any." Have you given up your power? Depression and anxiety can make us believe that we don't have any power and that things are hopeless. If you struggle with your daily life, relationships, self-esteem, and adjustment to changes, therapy can be a wonderful tool to help aid in your growth and find your power. Black and brown women have a lot coming at them and it can often make you feel powerless, let's work together to work through those things that may be holding you down.
Alice Walker said, "the most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any." Have you given up your power? Depression and anxiety can make us believe that we don't have any power and that things are hopeless. If you struggle with your daily life, relationships, self-esteem, and adjustment to changes, therapy can be a wonderful tool to help aid in your growth and find your power. Black and brown women have a lot coming at them and it can often make you feel powerless, let's work together to work through those things that may be holding you down.
![Photo of Lynn Brinson, MRC, LICDC, ICADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fccbf12-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
) Because I am of African descent, I am particularly aware of the needs that are unique to black culture.
I understand that as human beings, we can lose sight of what is needed to feel good about ourselves. I believe that self-love, compassion, and forgiveness is imperative to a healthy lifestyle. You will find that I am committed to being present and drawing from you what you already know. I do not believe in individuals spending their lives in therapy, but I believe in the importance of discovering those things that will provide a better quality of life. We will discover what provides you freedom . We will explore what will improve your relationship with self and others.
) Because I am of African descent, I am particularly aware of the needs that are unique to black culture.
I understand that as human beings, we can lose sight of what is needed to feel good about ourselves. I believe that self-love, compassion, and forgiveness is imperative to a healthy lifestyle. You will find that I am committed to being present and drawing from you what you already know. I do not believe in individuals spending their lives in therapy, but I believe in the importance of discovering those things that will provide a better quality of life. We will discover what provides you freedom . We will explore what will improve your relationship with self and others.
![Photo of De'Asia L. Thompson - Rise Counseling Group, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1db28da-b0b6-4726-a757-540be02f5bbc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rise Counseling Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45459
We specialize in working with Black women & teen girls, though all are welcome.
"My mission in life is not to merely survive, but to thrive and do so with some passion, compassion, some humor, and some style." -Maya Angelou As black women we are usually the last on our list- the order is usually kids, partners, parents, family, jobs, friends... then you. All of this and we're barely making it. Why continue to struggle and merely survive, when you can thrive. Depression doesn't always look like tears and pity parties. It can look like overwhelm, anger, unstable emotions, isolation, and anxiety too! Sound like anyone you know? Is it you girl?
We specialize in working with Black women & teen girls, though all are welcome.
"My mission in life is not to merely survive, but to thrive and do so with some passion, compassion, some humor, and some style." -Maya Angelou As black women we are usually the last on our list- the order is usually kids, partners, parents, family, jobs, friends... then you. All of this and we're barely making it. Why continue to struggle and merely survive, when you can thrive. Depression doesn't always look like tears and pity parties. It can look like overwhelm, anger, unstable emotions, isolation, and anxiety too! Sound like anyone you know? Is it you girl?
![Photo of Desmond E Yanamayu, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/475e6b4b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Desmond E Yanamayu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44120
Through empathy and genuineness, The Black Mental Health Co.
"TeleHealth Services Available"Feeling stuck, perplexed, or stressed out from life's challenges? These emotions often follow you into the workplace, show up in your marriages and personal relationships, and tend to affect every aspect of your life. As a therapist, my job is to assist with becoming unstuck and enlightened, by giving you the tools to bring about positive change. Working with me, my clients can expect honest and insightful feedback and an environment of respect and integrity. Therapy may seem challenging at times, it's my job to support you in doing the work required to achieve emotional, mental, and spiritual growth.
Through empathy and genuineness, The Black Mental Health Co.
"TeleHealth Services Available"Feeling stuck, perplexed, or stressed out from life's challenges? These emotions often follow you into the workplace, show up in your marriages and personal relationships, and tend to affect every aspect of your life. As a therapist, my job is to assist with becoming unstuck and enlightened, by giving you the tools to bring about positive change. Working with me, my clients can expect honest and insightful feedback and an environment of respect and integrity. Therapy may seem challenging at times, it's my job to support you in doing the work required to achieve emotional, mental, and spiritual growth.
![Photo of Angela Banks - The Clarity Couch, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c955505-cd52-4cee-b09d-08cd88750f98/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Clarity Couch
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garfield Heights, OH 44125 (Online Only)
The Clarity Couch is a private counseling practice based in Cleveland, Ohio. We specialize in providing care for Black folx, Folx of Color and we enjoy working with clients of all different backgrounds. Our goal is for you to have a safe space to talk through your concerns, learn new coping strategies and manage symptoms related to anxiety, depression and past trauma. Our goal extends beyond individual therapy sessions; we aim to educate the community on important topics like mental health, self-love, and fostering healthy relationships.
The Clarity Couch is a private counseling practice based in Cleveland, Ohio. We specialize in providing care for Black folx, Folx of Color and we enjoy working with clients of all different backgrounds. Our goal is for you to have a safe space to talk through your concerns, learn new coping strategies and manage symptoms related to anxiety, depression and past trauma. Our goal extends beyond individual therapy sessions; we aim to educate the community on important topics like mental health, self-love, and fostering healthy relationships.
![Photo of Caresse Boyd, SWT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/437c62d4-3e07-4613-a0fb-13a51f50fbff/1/320x400.jpeg)
My passion lies in supporting and empowering individuals, with a special focus on Black women and teen girls. Whether you are struggling with managing stress, anxiety, depression, or navigating life transitions, I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space where you can freely explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I believe that healing begins when you feel truly heard and understood, and I strive to create an environment where you can express yourself openly and without fear. My goal is not only to help you address your current challenges but also to guide you toward a path of healing and personal growth.
My passion lies in supporting and empowering individuals, with a special focus on Black women and teen girls. Whether you are struggling with managing stress, anxiety, depression, or navigating life transitions, I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space where you can freely explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I believe that healing begins when you feel truly heard and understood, and I strive to create an environment where you can express yourself openly and without fear. My goal is not only to help you address your current challenges but also to guide you toward a path of healing and personal growth.
![Photo of Dr. Tim K. Wallace, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/598c9d69-ee50-470b-a7c4-964a68f9b1a8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tim K. Wallace
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43085 (Online Only)
Do you know what one of the most powerful desires in the world is? To feel heard. My ideal client desires to feel heard, seeks no judgment, and wants to learn how to develop self-compassion. As a former athlete turned therapist, I recognize that life IS performance. And although it helps to have a voice to help with high-performance demands, sometimes it's hard to ask for that voice. As a proud blerd (black and a nerd), I can also help those willing to use aspects of their culture, or pop culture, or any movie, television show, anime, video game, or piece of music that allows one to reflect and try to embrace life uniquely.
Do you know what one of the most powerful desires in the world is? To feel heard. My ideal client desires to feel heard, seeks no judgment, and wants to learn how to develop self-compassion. As a former athlete turned therapist, I recognize that life IS performance. And although it helps to have a voice to help with high-performance demands, sometimes it's hard to ask for that voice. As a proud blerd (black and a nerd), I can also help those willing to use aspects of their culture, or pop culture, or any movie, television show, anime, video game, or piece of music that allows one to reflect and try to embrace life uniquely.
![Photo of Shayla Shavers, LPCC-S](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0938d627-24a1-4ee2-b2fd-8d1824e165fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shayla Shavers
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Twinsburg, OH 44087 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping Black/African American women learn healthier ways to cope with trauma, depression, stress, relationship concerns, life transitions, boundary setting and anxiety.
Are you experiencing anxiety or depression? Do you have trouble setting boundaries? You’ve come to the right place! I am here to help you become your best self. As a therapist, I'm here to help you process those feelings in a nonjudgmental environment. I believe gaining insight into your situation and learning new skills to manage your emotions can move you to the next level of experiencing more joy in life!
I specialize in helping Black/African American women learn healthier ways to cope with trauma, depression, stress, relationship concerns, life transitions, boundary setting and anxiety.
Are you experiencing anxiety or depression? Do you have trouble setting boundaries? You’ve come to the right place! I am here to help you become your best self. As a therapist, I'm here to help you process those feelings in a nonjudgmental environment. I believe gaining insight into your situation and learning new skills to manage your emotions can move you to the next level of experiencing more joy in life!
![Photo of Terri Blake, PhD, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fed4067a-4fad-4c0d-bf8c-940594633eb2/1/320x400.jpeg)
The boldest thing you can do is embrace your story. It is in the choice to embrace that you discover your strengths, weaknesses, and quirks that make you uniquely you. As a free-spirited, Southern-raised Black woman, I understand that the journey is not always the prettiest. There are some thorns and pricks, but even in those moments, there is discovery. And that, my dear, is a beautiful thing. The thorns and pricks may cause some depression, anxiety, and negative emotions which can make the journey seem unbearable. So know this: I Got You and you are HEALED.
The boldest thing you can do is embrace your story. It is in the choice to embrace that you discover your strengths, weaknesses, and quirks that make you uniquely you. As a free-spirited, Southern-raised Black woman, I understand that the journey is not always the prettiest. There are some thorns and pricks, but even in those moments, there is discovery. And that, my dear, is a beautiful thing. The thorns and pricks may cause some depression, anxiety, and negative emotions which can make the journey seem unbearable. So know this: I Got You and you are HEALED.
![Photo of Anthony L Rivers - Customized Behavioral Healthcare, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8a88d4b-0876-4552-9ba6-a2cf14037874/3/320x400.jpeg)
“I love what I do. I love being able to help those in either need or those seeking help to better their lives. I believe each individual is unique and created with a purpose. I see my goal as helping each individual discover his or her purpose while embracing his or her individuality. I have learned to utilize my experiences as an African-American, husband, father, social worker, soccer coach and friend in assisting each individual I work with to become all their meant to be.”
“I love what I do. I love being able to help those in either need or those seeking help to better their lives. I believe each individual is unique and created with a purpose. I see my goal as helping each individual discover his or her purpose while embracing his or her individuality. I have learned to utilize my experiences as an African-American, husband, father, social worker, soccer coach and friend in assisting each individual I work with to become all their meant to be.”
![Photo of Reana Dixon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab0b84e4-9108-4d04-8c37-b0b1657fb372/1/320x400.jpeg)
My specialized areas of focus are trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationships. I use CBT, EF, ACT, and the Gottman method, among others. These approaches acknowledge the unique experiences and cultural nuances that shape the lives of African American people. I create a safe, supportive environment where you can confront and heal from systemic racism, generational trauma, and personal struggles. I understand that seeking therapy can be a courageous and vulnerable step, especially for Black individuals who have historically faced systemic barriers and biases in mental health care. I'm committed to creating a safe space for you!
My specialized areas of focus are trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationships. I use CBT, EF, ACT, and the Gottman method, among others. These approaches acknowledge the unique experiences and cultural nuances that shape the lives of African American people. I create a safe, supportive environment where you can confront and heal from systemic racism, generational trauma, and personal struggles. I understand that seeking therapy can be a courageous and vulnerable step, especially for Black individuals who have historically faced systemic barriers and biases in mental health care. I'm committed to creating a safe space for you!
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![Photo of Vaya Fraley - I.M. Legacy Counseling & Consultation Services, LISW-S, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/579d40f7-543a-40c6-b28b-9b5c18a9bffc/2/320x400.jpeg)
I.M. Legacy Counseling & Consultation Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43215 (Online Only)
Are you haunted by your past? Experiencing feelings of anxiety, too many sleepless nights, or torturing yourself with guilt? Stop suffering in silence. It's time to heal! I am Vaya Fraley, aka "The Well-Abled Therapist", Co-founder of I.M. Legacy Counseling & Consultation Services, and Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S) in Ohio and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Georgia. I specialize in serving Black women with visible disabilities/chronic illness who struggle with emotional trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Are you haunted by your past? Experiencing feelings of anxiety, too many sleepless nights, or torturing yourself with guilt? Stop suffering in silence. It's time to heal! I am Vaya Fraley, aka "The Well-Abled Therapist", Co-founder of I.M. Legacy Counseling & Consultation Services, and Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S) in Ohio and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Georgia. I specialize in serving Black women with visible disabilities/chronic illness who struggle with emotional trauma, depression, and anxiety.
![Photo of Marquita Thompson - Mahogany Bridges Ohio Teletherapy, MS, LPCC, NBCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45929b95-5c07-44b9-93cc-538487678f99/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mahogany Bridges Ohio Teletherapy
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45409
Now accepting new clients! Email us today. Many of us carry the burden of unnoticed traumas, especially within Black & Brown communities, where trauma is often normalized or downplayed. Throughout our lives, we may have heard phrases like "just move on" or "you'll be fine." These sentiments are commonly expressed by family, colleagues, or even our own inner voices. While well-intentioned, our loved ones may not fully understand the tools needed for processing, coping, and potentially healing from these experiences.
Now accepting new clients! Email us today. Many of us carry the burden of unnoticed traumas, especially within Black & Brown communities, where trauma is often normalized or downplayed. Throughout our lives, we may have heard phrases like "just move on" or "you'll be fine." These sentiments are commonly expressed by family, colleagues, or even our own inner voices. While well-intentioned, our loved ones may not fully understand the tools needed for processing, coping, and potentially healing from these experiences.
![Photo of Ellen Heddleston, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/039b706a-7c5f-454e-80bd-afc61ca4186d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ellen Heddleston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Hello! I'm Ellen, a licensed clinician offering mental and energetic support to adults in Columbus, Ohio. I specialize in helping individuals reconnect with their inner selves and heal past wounds. My therapeutic approach emphasizes compassion, choice, and empowerment, creating an affirming space where you can explore your journey of healing. As a biracial-Black woman, my perspective is shaped by a deep understanding of diverse cultural contexts and the nuances they bring to mental health care.
Hello! I'm Ellen, a licensed clinician offering mental and energetic support to adults in Columbus, Ohio. I specialize in helping individuals reconnect with their inner selves and heal past wounds. My therapeutic approach emphasizes compassion, choice, and empowerment, creating an affirming space where you can explore your journey of healing. As a biracial-Black woman, my perspective is shaped by a deep understanding of diverse cultural contexts and the nuances they bring to mental health care.
![Photo of Keith Vukasinovich, MSEd, MS, LPCC-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da7d0e60-e67f-4f81-a742-cdaa34609816/2/320x400.jpeg)
As one of only 170 independently licensed black male mental health professionals in Ohio, I'm here to help others who are hoping to find a therapist who looks like them & can better relate to their life experience.
My ideal clients are those struggling with trauma issues who are seeking ways to resolve these issues before they become enduring problems & patterns. I also enjoy working with those who are struggling with complex unresolved issues of trauma. I encourage my clients to take a holistic approach to growth. We are physical, mental, emotional & spiritual beings. The path forward is achieved by weaving all of these aspects of ourselves together into a coherent, unified whole. We can experience growth & healing. We then become a healthy influence on everyone & everything around us. This is my hope for anyone seeking therapy.
As one of only 170 independently licensed black male mental health professionals in Ohio, I'm here to help others who are hoping to find a therapist who looks like them & can better relate to their life experience.
My ideal clients are those struggling with trauma issues who are seeking ways to resolve these issues before they become enduring problems & patterns. I also enjoy working with those who are struggling with complex unresolved issues of trauma. I encourage my clients to take a holistic approach to growth. We are physical, mental, emotional & spiritual beings. The path forward is achieved by weaving all of these aspects of ourselves together into a coherent, unified whole. We can experience growth & healing. We then become a healthy influence on everyone & everything around us. This is my hope for anyone seeking therapy.
![Photo of Carla Eugene - Beyond the Surface Counseling LLC,, MS, LPCC-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/420e679c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Beyond the Surface Counseling LLC,
Counselor, MS, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230 (Online Only)
Are you a Black professional woman or college student experiencing a life changing event such as a new job, marriage, childbirth, graduation, a new relationship status, or dealing with loss? Perhaps you are searching for identity or purpose, and find yourself saying, “Who am I?” or “Who have I become? As you navigate these challenges, you may find yourself spiraling out of control or even feeling overwhelmed with anxiety and depression while trying to keep it all together. If this is your story, then I would love to help.
Are you a Black professional woman or college student experiencing a life changing event such as a new job, marriage, childbirth, graduation, a new relationship status, or dealing with loss? Perhaps you are searching for identity or purpose, and find yourself saying, “Who am I?” or “Who have I become? As you navigate these challenges, you may find yourself spiraling out of control or even feeling overwhelmed with anxiety and depression while trying to keep it all together. If this is your story, then I would love to help.
![Photo of Maleshia Neugebauer, MBA, LISW-S, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea98c0fc-c4c1-44c3-bca7-fb84978be043/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maleshia Neugebauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LISW-S, CCM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45220 (Online Only)
Are you looking for a Black therapist or culturally-competent therapist, who just accepts and gets you? My name is Maleshia. I'm a knowledgeable therapist, who is authentic, empathic, and a passionate community leader with over 20 years of experience. Many of us struggle navigating today's world with labels or being "different". Are you ready to be seen & heard? Throughout the years, I've learned that everyone has a story. What's your story? I'm here to listen and guide you through life's challenges. Let's connect!
Are you looking for a Black therapist or culturally-competent therapist, who just accepts and gets you? My name is Maleshia. I'm a knowledgeable therapist, who is authentic, empathic, and a passionate community leader with over 20 years of experience. Many of us struggle navigating today's world with labels or being "different". Are you ready to be seen & heard? Throughout the years, I've learned that everyone has a story. What's your story? I'm here to listen and guide you through life's challenges. Let's connect!
![Photo of Jamye Cruse, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c436c71c-561e-490b-9298-7f3cf81e1c32/1/320x400.png)
I provide a safe supportive space to provide trauma-informed care to those in the African American communities.
Hi, I am Dr. Cruse. I am a pre-licensed African American Clinical Psychologist who is committed to providing culturally sensitive mental health care. I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, and relationship issues. I use CBT, DBT, ACT, and culturally sensitive techniques. My approach is culturally sensitive, together we explore the intersectionality of race, identity, and mental health. I believe you deserve to feel heard, understood, and valued, while you explore your challenges and work towards your personal growth.
I provide a safe supportive space to provide trauma-informed care to those in the African American communities.
Hi, I am Dr. Cruse. I am a pre-licensed African American Clinical Psychologist who is committed to providing culturally sensitive mental health care. I specialize in anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, and relationship issues. I use CBT, DBT, ACT, and culturally sensitive techniques. My approach is culturally sensitive, together we explore the intersectionality of race, identity, and mental health. I believe you deserve to feel heard, understood, and valued, while you explore your challenges and work towards your personal growth.
![Photo of Chey-Anne L Wilson, MS, IMFT, CTMH, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb125f51-1302-452f-983e-0005e6a3fffc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chey-Anne L Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, IMFT, CTMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45459
I specialize in cultivating happier & healthier relationships in the lives of black couples, families & individuals.
Life has its challenges along with the transitions. Our emotions, thoughts & behaviors can play a role in the challenges & transitions of life. Are you, your family, or relationship experiencing a challenge or transition? Individuals in need of assistance with life transitions & their mental health specifically – anxiety, depression & the impact of relationship issues seek Individual Mental Health Therapy. Couples in urgent need of therapy and determining their next step seek Emergency Couples Therapy. Others seek Post-Infidelity, High-Conflict Couples Therapy, Co-Parenting Counseling, or Family Counseling.
I specialize in cultivating happier & healthier relationships in the lives of black couples, families & individuals.
Life has its challenges along with the transitions. Our emotions, thoughts & behaviors can play a role in the challenges & transitions of life. Are you, your family, or relationship experiencing a challenge or transition? Individuals in need of assistance with life transitions & their mental health specifically – anxiety, depression & the impact of relationship issues seek Individual Mental Health Therapy. Couples in urgent need of therapy and determining their next step seek Emergency Couples Therapy. Others seek Post-Infidelity, High-Conflict Couples Therapy, Co-Parenting Counseling, or Family Counseling.
![Photo of Jamahl R. Jones, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d7c7b98-96e0-4e99-9258-2cccd1f10ce0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about Black mental health and want to eliminate the stigma of seeing a therapist in our community.
As a licensed social worker, helping others thrive in society is my ultimate goal. I currently specialize in helping young people, but open to all ages. I help people meet their targeted goals and/or deal with their trauma. I specialize in working with early childhood students and adolescents dealing with trauma, grief, and depression. My approach is to listen to and understand what your current issues at hand are, so that we can cooperatively empower you to resolve them with collaboratively created goals.
I am passionate about Black mental health and want to eliminate the stigma of seeing a therapist in our community.
As a licensed social worker, helping others thrive in society is my ultimate goal. I currently specialize in helping young people, but open to all ages. I help people meet their targeted goals and/or deal with their trauma. I specialize in working with early childhood students and adolescents dealing with trauma, grief, and depression. My approach is to listen to and understand what your current issues at hand are, so that we can cooperatively empower you to resolve them with collaboratively created goals.
See more therapy options for Ohio
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.