Black and African American Therapists in Houston, TX
![Photo of Lisa N Blount, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17bdd4ec-a8a5-49c6-92d0-6c6765a2ec86/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa N Blount
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024 (Online Only)
Trust your gut. Feeling stuck and unable to fully engage with your authentic self? Or do you find yourself engaging in repetitive behaviors that haven’t served you well and not sure why? Sometimes life experiences can cause us to second guess ourselves and lead us toward less than favorable situations. It happens to the best of us and as a Black and BIPOC therapist, I want you to know that it doesn’t always have to be that way. Often it’s helpful to have the support of a spiritual connection, friends and family. It’s also helpful to have a therapeutic relationship.
Trust your gut. Feeling stuck and unable to fully engage with your authentic self? Or do you find yourself engaging in repetitive behaviors that haven’t served you well and not sure why? Sometimes life experiences can cause us to second guess ourselves and lead us toward less than favorable situations. It happens to the best of us and as a Black and BIPOC therapist, I want you to know that it doesn’t always have to be that way. Often it’s helpful to have the support of a spiritual connection, friends and family. It’s also helpful to have a therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Labrea Law](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fab7c8fd-8103-449a-9235-e60e054ad0fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have over six years of experience working in Crisis Intervention and helping those who have experienced trauma, including the LGBTQ+ community, black and indigenous people of color (BIPOC), and Adolescents/Young Adults.
I know that navigating through life isn't easy when you feel unheard and alone. Whether you are struggling with your spirituality, sexuality, suicidal ideations, family issues and/or relationships, I want to be the person to lend an ear. I want to make sure that you feel heard, cared for, and that you have a safe outlet to process your thoughts and feelings. I serve my clients by providing spiritual counseling, crisis intervention, decreasing symptoms of depression and anxiety, and support with life transitions. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate. I am currently supervised by Stacia’ Alexander, Ph. D., LPC-S.
I have over six years of experience working in Crisis Intervention and helping those who have experienced trauma, including the LGBTQ+ community, black and indigenous people of color (BIPOC), and Adolescents/Young Adults.
I know that navigating through life isn't easy when you feel unheard and alone. Whether you are struggling with your spirituality, sexuality, suicidal ideations, family issues and/or relationships, I want to be the person to lend an ear. I want to make sure that you feel heard, cared for, and that you have a safe outlet to process your thoughts and feelings. I serve my clients by providing spiritual counseling, crisis intervention, decreasing symptoms of depression and anxiety, and support with life transitions. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate. I am currently supervised by Stacia’ Alexander, Ph. D., LPC-S.
![Photo of Roslyn Igbani, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db14a447-8601-471f-bb12-e6ea4c58708c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Roslyn Igbani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77018
As a Black female therapist, I'm especially passionate about working with women who are a part of the Black and Indigenous People of Color community (BIPOC).
Let's be honest, navigating life as a woman can sometimes feel extremely difficult. Maybe you’re a people-pleaser and feeling pressure to live up to everyone’s expectations. You’re smart, ambitious and did everything the “right” way but are left wondering, now what? You feel stuck in your head and your emotions feel too overwhelming to manage. On the outside, things look picture perfect, but you’re on the brink of falling apart on the inside. You want to live life on your own terms but anxiety is holding you back, and you don’t know where to start. Does any of this sound familiar?
As a Black female therapist, I'm especially passionate about working with women who are a part of the Black and Indigenous People of Color community (BIPOC).
Let's be honest, navigating life as a woman can sometimes feel extremely difficult. Maybe you’re a people-pleaser and feeling pressure to live up to everyone’s expectations. You’re smart, ambitious and did everything the “right” way but are left wondering, now what? You feel stuck in your head and your emotions feel too overwhelming to manage. On the outside, things look picture perfect, but you’re on the brink of falling apart on the inside. You want to live life on your own terms but anxiety is holding you back, and you don’t know where to start. Does any of this sound familiar?
![Photo of Dr. Justyn Smith, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acb0696b-51ba-47b1-999c-36ebd37967bd/2/320x400.jpeg)
My identity as a Gay Black Man gives me a unique passion as therapist and deep empathy in supporting the LGBTQ population with coming out, managing relationships and growing in self-acceptance. I work with a variety of presenting concerns and populations; however, my specialization is working with Gay Men, BIPOC and the LGBTQ+ community. I provide support and a nonjudgmental environment for you to process, explore and talk through your concerns. In counseling you can get tools and skills to make life changes or use the space to let out your thoughts and vocalize your stress. I also provide Supervision for LPC Associates.
My identity as a Gay Black Man gives me a unique passion as therapist and deep empathy in supporting the LGBTQ population with coming out, managing relationships and growing in self-acceptance. I work with a variety of presenting concerns and populations; however, my specialization is working with Gay Men, BIPOC and the LGBTQ+ community. I provide support and a nonjudgmental environment for you to process, explore and talk through your concerns. In counseling you can get tools and skills to make life changes or use the space to let out your thoughts and vocalize your stress. I also provide Supervision for LPC Associates.
![Photo of Deni Martin - TherapHe Matters, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50b6c1ca-49d9-415f-bb31-312996fd19ba/2/320x400.jpeg)
TherapHe Matters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77040 (Online Only)
To my black and brown men: Therapy is taboo and those around us have perpetuated the idea that needing help is a sign of weakness. Middle finger to all that. I have created a safe space for you to talk about your things. All the things. We can label the "things" as depression, anxiety, or effects from trauma, but I'm good just calling them "things." The things that keep you up. The things that create doubt. The things that make you feel like an imposter. The things that make you feel less of a man, a husband, a dad, a brother, a friend, an employee, a student, an athlete, a human.
To my black and brown men: Therapy is taboo and those around us have perpetuated the idea that needing help is a sign of weakness. Middle finger to all that. I have created a safe space for you to talk about your things. All the things. We can label the "things" as depression, anxiety, or effects from trauma, but I'm good just calling them "things." The things that keep you up. The things that create doubt. The things that make you feel like an imposter. The things that make you feel less of a man, a husband, a dad, a brother, a friend, an employee, a student, an athlete, a human.
Ebony Johnson Blue
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
Are you a black woman seeking tools for growth and empowerment? Allow me to introduce myself. I am a resilient mother, a black woman, and a mental health therapist deeply committed to assisting black women in navigating their mental health. Drawing on personal experiences and trauma-informed care, my approach intertwines wellness and community connections, promoting mental health and creating empowering support systems.
Are you a black woman seeking tools for growth and empowerment? Allow me to introduce myself. I am a resilient mother, a black woman, and a mental health therapist deeply committed to assisting black women in navigating their mental health. Drawing on personal experiences and trauma-informed care, my approach intertwines wellness and community connections, promoting mental health and creating empowering support systems.
![Photo of Connie Fredrick - The Counseling Center for Families of Color, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fcff911c-f3ef-4ccc-bbfc-8100608f1174/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Counseling Center for Families of Color
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77092
The Counseling Center for Families of Color (CCFC) is a group of BIPOC therapists focused on meeting the mental health needs of black and brown families and communities. CCFC provides culturally sensitive and equitable community-based services for those seeking mental health counseling for the very first time or returning to therapy.
The Counseling Center for Families of Color (CCFC) is a group of BIPOC therapists focused on meeting the mental health needs of black and brown families and communities. CCFC provides culturally sensitive and equitable community-based services for those seeking mental health counseling for the very first time or returning to therapy.
![Photo of Dr. Dwight D LaVan, LCDC, D Div, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8d9dadd-a46f-4893-9099-6edc4304ecd2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dwight D LaVan
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC, D Div
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77002
I understand wanting to talk to someone but feeling apprehensive because that's just not something that us black folks tend to do.
Yes, reading through all these profiles is a lot. Listen, you already know that something is wrong, you already know it’s a cycle, and you already know that something has to change. Your wife, your gal or ya dude has already told you that if you don’t stop, they're leaving you, your job is probably tripping, you have already pissed off your family members, and now you’re here. Struggling with communicating exactly what's going on, and how you feel (that's if you even know how you feel, things have gotten so complicated that your don't even know anymore). Let me help you break the cycle, and learn a better way to do things.
I understand wanting to talk to someone but feeling apprehensive because that's just not something that us black folks tend to do.
Yes, reading through all these profiles is a lot. Listen, you already know that something is wrong, you already know it’s a cycle, and you already know that something has to change. Your wife, your gal or ya dude has already told you that if you don’t stop, they're leaving you, your job is probably tripping, you have already pissed off your family members, and now you’re here. Struggling with communicating exactly what's going on, and how you feel (that's if you even know how you feel, things have gotten so complicated that your don't even know anymore). Let me help you break the cycle, and learn a better way to do things.
![Photo of Lisa Wilkins-Blount, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0d88473-8939-48cb-b0f4-c1bbdc71a588/1/320x400.jpeg)
This Black female therapist, who's faced personal and systemic oppression, champions change for marginalized communities.
Are you a BIPOC woman or a young adult seeking to cultivate a space for healing, growth and self-discovery? Meet your potential ally—their therapy approach seeks to awaken your inner giant and facilitate personal development. Their commitment is to clients experiencing anxiety, depression, or grief due to racism, discrimination, or microaggressions. Together, you will create a safe, judging-free zone to unpack your emotions, strengthen your intuition, and enhance spiritual connections.
This Black female therapist, who's faced personal and systemic oppression, champions change for marginalized communities.
Are you a BIPOC woman or a young adult seeking to cultivate a space for healing, growth and self-discovery? Meet your potential ally—their therapy approach seeks to awaken your inner giant and facilitate personal development. Their commitment is to clients experiencing anxiety, depression, or grief due to racism, discrimination, or microaggressions. Together, you will create a safe, judging-free zone to unpack your emotions, strengthen your intuition, and enhance spiritual connections.
![Photo of Taylor Marie Coleman, LPC-A, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fddf09a3-ce64-43fd-b086-2f3291f6106b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Marie Coleman
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77003
My counseling training and experiences have emphases in the following populations: ethnic minorities, LGBTQAI+, Deaf and Hard of Hearing, women, African-American/Black women, African-American/Black males, military, marginalized populations, disenfranchised people of color, Christian and spirituality, adolescents, young adults, and adults.
“A life without cause is a life without effect.” Hello, my name is Taylor! I firmly believe that everyone has a UNIQUE purpose and skill set that makes them one of a kind. Creating a SAFE and non-judgmental space for my clients to freely express themselves is of utmost importance. I am currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology to further my education and training in mental health counseling.
My counseling training and experiences have emphases in the following populations: ethnic minorities, LGBTQAI+, Deaf and Hard of Hearing, women, African-American/Black women, African-American/Black males, military, marginalized populations, disenfranchised people of color, Christian and spirituality, adolescents, young adults, and adults.
“A life without cause is a life without effect.” Hello, my name is Taylor! I firmly believe that everyone has a UNIQUE purpose and skill set that makes them one of a kind. Creating a SAFE and non-judgmental space for my clients to freely express themselves is of utmost importance. I am currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology to further my education and training in mental health counseling.
![Photo of Cloricea Brooks, MA, LMHC, CASAC-T, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5eee41ac-dbc1-438e-b4fe-7e4608ffeec2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cloricea Brooks
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CASAC-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77027 (Online Only)
My practice centers on promoting resilience in Black communities through holistic interventions.
Everyday we tell ourselves stories through our thoughts. These stories stem from our lived experiences, which are inseparable from our cultural identities. Life challenges like job stress, relationship issues, trauma, and grief can lead to stories that highlight fear, anger, mistrust, and sadness, leading to detachment and difficulty feeling joy. I believe that restoring genuine connections with yourself and others is a powerful antidote. Together we will explore cognitive and behavioral interventions to change what you can, while intentionally accepting the unchangeable in a compassionate space.
My practice centers on promoting resilience in Black communities through holistic interventions.
Everyday we tell ourselves stories through our thoughts. These stories stem from our lived experiences, which are inseparable from our cultural identities. Life challenges like job stress, relationship issues, trauma, and grief can lead to stories that highlight fear, anger, mistrust, and sadness, leading to detachment and difficulty feeling joy. I believe that restoring genuine connections with yourself and others is a powerful antidote. Together we will explore cognitive and behavioral interventions to change what you can, while intentionally accepting the unchangeable in a compassionate space.
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![Photo of Tamara Johns - Exhale Therapy, Wellness, and Consulting Services , MEd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4f8f523-28a7-48c9-a11e-5ec684f95887/1/320x400.jpeg)
Exhale Therapy, Wellness, and Consulting Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77042 (Online Only)
As a black woman, I understand the pressure and demands of working in a high-stress environment while taking care of yourself and others, trying to live your best life all the while making it look effortless.
Hi, my name is Tamara Johns! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of ExhaleTherapy, Wellness, and Consulting Services. I invite you on a journey to step into living in your authenticity. I know it can be exhausting to constantly have to paint a smile on your face or feel like you are trying to hold all the pieces of your life together. As a holistic therapist, I know you are more than your struggles and I want to support you in living your best life as determined by you. I specialize in supporting black and brown women who are dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and burnout.
As a black woman, I understand the pressure and demands of working in a high-stress environment while taking care of yourself and others, trying to live your best life all the while making it look effortless.
Hi, my name is Tamara Johns! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of ExhaleTherapy, Wellness, and Consulting Services. I invite you on a journey to step into living in your authenticity. I know it can be exhausting to constantly have to paint a smile on your face or feel like you are trying to hold all the pieces of your life together. As a holistic therapist, I know you are more than your struggles and I want to support you in living your best life as determined by you. I specialize in supporting black and brown women who are dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and burnout.
![Photo of Quentin Jiles, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69faa16d-d56c-4aff-b57f-fea8767c155f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of fighting anxiety, depression, and societal pressures alone? Then I am here to stand side by side and fight with you. As your therapist, whom has completed therapy for my own anxiety, I know what it feels like to fight alone and to have an advocating therapist. The societal pressures that black, brown, indigenous children and adults face are overwhelming and unfair. But there are ways to authentically walk in your skin. And I am here to help you in your walk!
Are you tired of fighting anxiety, depression, and societal pressures alone? Then I am here to stand side by side and fight with you. As your therapist, whom has completed therapy for my own anxiety, I know what it feels like to fight alone and to have an advocating therapist. The societal pressures that black, brown, indigenous children and adults face are overwhelming and unfair. But there are ways to authentically walk in your skin. And I am here to help you in your walk!
![Photo of Katherine Anderson, MEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3de1f80a-f408-4d43-a7e2-0b5ab74ee2c9/1/320x400.png)
Katherine Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77004 (Online Only)
As a Black therapist I am dedicated to connecting black and brown communities to healing spaces. I am passionate about helping all individuals find ways to appreciate and care for themselves.
As a Black therapist I am dedicated to connecting black and brown communities to healing spaces. I am passionate about helping all individuals find ways to appreciate and care for themselves.
![Photo of Raheem Lay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2430e94-6a5b-4377-bd95-575ab2be9c62/1/320x400.jpeg)
As an African American male therapist, I offer a culturally sensitive and inclusive space rooted in emotional intelligence and empathy. I believe in the power of self-awareness to navigate challenges. In sessions, I prioritize collaboration and affirmation, tailoring my approach to your unique needs. Drawing from a holistic perspective, I integrate evidence-based methods, considering cultural factors.
As an African American male therapist, I offer a culturally sensitive and inclusive space rooted in emotional intelligence and empathy. I believe in the power of self-awareness to navigate challenges. In sessions, I prioritize collaboration and affirmation, tailoring my approach to your unique needs. Drawing from a holistic perspective, I integrate evidence-based methods, considering cultural factors.
![Photo of Aaliyah Maura, MS, LMFT- A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b6e93e5-8def-4878-bf99-3b515014bbf4/5/320x400.jpeg)
Aaliyah Maura
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT- A
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77045 (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with the Black community to destigmatize the idea of accessing mental health services. Whether it is working with a family or couple to decrease conflict and increase intimacy or assisting an individual to process trauma, helping them to have a healthier relationship with themselves and others, it brings me joy to restore families to a sense of wholeness. I also really enjoy clients who are motivated to do the work, are willing to be open and receptive to the therapeutic process and who have an intrinsic desire to increase their self-awareness regarding their needs and wants.
I have a passion for working with the Black community to destigmatize the idea of accessing mental health services. Whether it is working with a family or couple to decrease conflict and increase intimacy or assisting an individual to process trauma, helping them to have a healthier relationship with themselves and others, it brings me joy to restore families to a sense of wholeness. I also really enjoy clients who are motivated to do the work, are willing to be open and receptive to the therapeutic process and who have an intrinsic desire to increase their self-awareness regarding their needs and wants.
![Photo of Kenasia Woods, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83645f44-ab1b-4d17-98e5-799e3848eec6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sistas, how y’all feel? Brothas, y’all alright? As an African-American female, I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges that my community faces. I understand the stigma surrounding mental health, but let me clarify for the people in the back: seeking therapy does not make you weak. You don’t have to ‘be strong’ or ‘push through’ like our elders did. And what happens in your house doesn't have to stay there if it’s hurting you!
Sistas, how y’all feel? Brothas, y’all alright? As an African-American female, I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges that my community faces. I understand the stigma surrounding mental health, but let me clarify for the people in the back: seeking therapy does not make you weak. You don’t have to ‘be strong’ or ‘push through’ like our elders did. And what happens in your house doesn't have to stay there if it’s hurting you!
![Photo of Cedric Ita-Eyo, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ad465cb-d40a-4495-8764-38fb3d4d2b1c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cedric Ita-Eyo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77027 (Online Only)
As a black male, my major goal is to provide a safe space to address any emotional, psychological, or social difficulties that might be preventing oneself from finding pleasure in their lives and from building meaningful connections.
I applaud your desire to use therapy to advance your personal development. I'm grateful for the chance to make a difference in someone's life by encouraging them to concentrate on their advantages and past successes rather than failures in order to foster personal growth. It appears that you have been searching for guidance for some time now, having felt uncertain about who you are. One of the best choices you can make to realize your incredible future is to put yourself first.
As a black male, my major goal is to provide a safe space to address any emotional, psychological, or social difficulties that might be preventing oneself from finding pleasure in their lives and from building meaningful connections.
I applaud your desire to use therapy to advance your personal development. I'm grateful for the chance to make a difference in someone's life by encouraging them to concentrate on their advantages and past successes rather than failures in order to foster personal growth. It appears that you have been searching for guidance for some time now, having felt uncertain about who you are. One of the best choices you can make to realize your incredible future is to put yourself first.
![Photo of Tiffany Saunders - Live On Purpose Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1ad6b9a-6c6b-4278-9594-13cd611eccf4/1/320x400.png)
I am also deeply passionate about assisting African American marriages in becoming healthy.
It is always encouraging to see you taking the first steps in addressing emotional stress and anxiety in your life. Reach out to me and let's talk to see if I can help you in your road to healing.
I am also deeply passionate about assisting African American marriages in becoming healthy.
It is always encouraging to see you taking the first steps in addressing emotional stress and anxiety in your life. Reach out to me and let's talk to see if I can help you in your road to healing.
![Photo of Sable McElveen, DHA, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b450cf75-1ea9-494a-abab-ad446117e16b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sable McElveen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DHA, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77056
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy assisting clients ages 16+ from historically marginalized communities with a focus on those identifying as Black or LGBTQIA+.
Do you feel overwhelmed by what life has thrown your way? Getting out of our own heads and speaking out loud are the first steps to making progress toward being our most authentic selves. As a therapist, my role is to ask you introspective questions and provide alternative ideas to navigate your circumstances, but YOU will guide the discussion, sharing what is most important for me to know to help you meet your goals. Taking an affirming, DEI, and culturally humble approach to therapy, I honor how our unique perspectives, experiences, strengths, and identities have shaped us in many ways and provide a map for who we want to be.
I enjoy assisting clients ages 16+ from historically marginalized communities with a focus on those identifying as Black or LGBTQIA+.
Do you feel overwhelmed by what life has thrown your way? Getting out of our own heads and speaking out loud are the first steps to making progress toward being our most authentic selves. As a therapist, my role is to ask you introspective questions and provide alternative ideas to navigate your circumstances, but YOU will guide the discussion, sharing what is most important for me to know to help you meet your goals. Taking an affirming, DEI, and culturally humble approach to therapy, I honor how our unique perspectives, experiences, strengths, and identities have shaped us in many ways and provide a map for who we want to be.
See more therapy options for Houston
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Houston
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- West University Place
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.