Black and African American Therapists in Marana, AZ

Photo of Eric O Emerson - Eric O Emerson Counseling & Consulting Inc., MA, Ed, LISAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Eric O Emerson Counseling & Consulting Inc.
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, Ed, LISAC
Verified Verified
Marana, AZ 85653
African-American; Male Therapist; Trauma; Substance Abuse Counselor, Anger, Anxiety, Healthy Relationships, Behavior Specialist in public school system for 17 years; Counseling for Juvenile Justice system; Therapist for Child Protective Services.
My service goal is to provide the highest level of counseling services, in order to empower individuals to lead healthy and productive lives. Our services are directed towards the individual's ability to personalize and make counseling practical to their life experiences, thus enhancing feelings of belonging, acceptance of personal responsibility and empowering themselves to make choices and decisions that lead to positive consequences.
African-American; Male Therapist; Trauma; Substance Abuse Counselor, Anger, Anxiety, Healthy Relationships, Behavior Specialist in public school system for 17 years; Counseling for Juvenile Justice system; Therapist for Child Protective Services.
My service goal is to provide the highest level of counseling services, in order to empower individuals to lead healthy and productive lives. Our services are directed towards the individual's ability to personalize and make counseling practical to their life experiences, thus enhancing feelings of belonging, acceptance of personal responsibility and empowering themselves to make choices and decisions that lead to positive consequences.
(520) 441-3546 View (520) 441-3546
Photo of Sharon Kramer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sharon Kramer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Marana, AZ 85658  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Sharon and I am so glad you're here! Have you been struggling emotionally? Are you tired of the emotional/behavioral cycles you keep finding yourself in? Perhaps you want to stride boldly through 2024 with a goal of moving past the emotional hurts and pains that have kept you seemingly captive for years. Let's talk about how we can work together courageously to achieve a more fulfilling, satisfying and peaceful lifestyle you are seeking!
Hi, I'm Sharon and I am so glad you're here! Have you been struggling emotionally? Are you tired of the emotional/behavioral cycles you keep finding yourself in? Perhaps you want to stride boldly through 2024 with a goal of moving past the emotional hurts and pains that have kept you seemingly captive for years. Let's talk about how we can work together courageously to achieve a more fulfilling, satisfying and peaceful lifestyle you are seeking!
(520) 485-5710 View (520) 485-5710
Photo of Fred Wiggins - Peacemakers Christian Family Counseling, PhD, Psychologist
Peacemakers Christian Family Counseling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Marana, AZ 85653
Not accepting new clients
09/14/24 - To all concerned, I've been hospitalized since July 31st 2024 in Scottsdale after a medical emergency. My recovery may take several months. During this time, I will be suspending my practice. I will make the attempt to follow up with you in the weeks to come to ensure you can continue to receive the best patient care possible. Please be aware that during this time my response to e-mail, texts, and calls will be severely limited. Thank you for your understanding.
09/14/24 - To all concerned, I've been hospitalized since July 31st 2024 in Scottsdale after a medical emergency. My recovery may take several months. During this time, I will be suspending my practice. I will make the attempt to follow up with you in the weeks to come to ensure you can continue to receive the best patient care possible. Please be aware that during this time my response to e-mail, texts, and calls will be severely limited. Thank you for your understanding.
(520) 366-8495 View (520) 366-8495

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Cassandra Denise Clariett, DMin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Cassandra Denise Clariett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DMin, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85743  (Online Only)
Mental Health is my Passion and Helping People Heal is Our Purpose! Fresh or Frozen, Trauma Can Impact You In More Ways Than You Know! As Your Therapist, I am Here to Empower and Assist You In Living a Wholesome Life. You can expect to start your path to healing with Dr. Cassandra Clariett, LCSW-TN, AZ, right away. Currently offering Clinical Supervision for Mental Health Professionals in TN and AZ!
Mental Health is my Passion and Helping People Heal is Our Purpose! Fresh or Frozen, Trauma Can Impact You In More Ways Than You Know! As Your Therapist, I am Here to Empower and Assist You In Living a Wholesome Life. You can expect to start your path to healing with Dr. Cassandra Clariett, LCSW-TN, AZ, right away. Currently offering Clinical Supervision for Mental Health Professionals in TN and AZ!
(901) 350-6858 View (901) 350-6858
Photo of Tammy Rome - Telespera Counseling, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Telespera Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85743
Ever been in that spot where life just feels like too much? Like you’re carrying the weight of the world and it’s starting to crush you? You’re stressed, you’re overwhelmed, and it feels like everything’s spinning out of control? Perfectionism and people-pleasing are robbing your joy. And you know what? Sometimes, all that stress and pressure can manifest as physical pain. It’s like our bodies are trying to tell us something our minds haven’t quite figured out yet. But here’s the thing: we’re experts at dealing with this kind of trauma. It’s our jam. We’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you through it. So, if you’re tired of feeling like you’re stuck in a never-ending cycle of stress and pain, we’ve got your back.
Ever been in that spot where life just feels like too much? Like you’re carrying the weight of the world and it’s starting to crush you? You’re stressed, you’re overwhelmed, and it feels like everything’s spinning out of control? Perfectionism and people-pleasing are robbing your joy. And you know what? Sometimes, all that stress and pressure can manifest as physical pain. It’s like our bodies are trying to tell us something our minds haven’t quite figured out yet. But here’s the thing: we’re experts at dealing with this kind of trauma. It’s our jam. We’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you through it. So, if you’re tired of feeling like you’re stuck in a never-ending cycle of stress and pain, we’ve got your back.
(520) 895-4292 View (520) 895-4292
Photo of Michele Lynn, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Michele Lynn
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85741  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR trauma therapy and work deeply with Attachment Theory and trauma-focused healing. As a former school counselor, I greatly understand systemic barriers, the impact of childhood experiences, and foundational issues that can impact one's life.I am a passionate advocate for diverse groups and am currently a Ph.D. candidate in Counselor Education. My research focuses on cultural humility and social justice advocacy. I am well-versed in the dynamics that contribute to behavioral health issues and mental health disparities. I have a deep compassion for the underserved and communities of color, and LGBTQI+ communities.
I am trained in EMDR trauma therapy and work deeply with Attachment Theory and trauma-focused healing. As a former school counselor, I greatly understand systemic barriers, the impact of childhood experiences, and foundational issues that can impact one's life.I am a passionate advocate for diverse groups and am currently a Ph.D. candidate in Counselor Education. My research focuses on cultural humility and social justice advocacy. I am well-versed in the dynamics that contribute to behavioral health issues and mental health disparities. I have a deep compassion for the underserved and communities of color, and LGBTQI+ communities.
(623) 323-3454 View (623) 323-3454
Photo of Devanand Heins, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Devanand Heins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85742
I am passionate about supporting others in discovering a sense of alignment with their authentic self. My belief is when we come to peace with who we are and learn to embody the unique gifts we offer the World, our mental health is able to improve and stabilize. This includes the ability to overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Through developing relationship to ourselves and our bodies, we can find untapped resilience from within. I specialize in working with adults and the aging population.
I am passionate about supporting others in discovering a sense of alignment with their authentic self. My belief is when we come to peace with who we are and learn to embody the unique gifts we offer the World, our mental health is able to improve and stabilize. This includes the ability to overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Through developing relationship to ourselves and our bodies, we can find untapped resilience from within. I specialize in working with adults and the aging population.
(720) 706-3730 View (720) 706-3730

Online Therapists

Photo of K T Moore, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
K T Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
My name is KT Moore and my pronouns are they/them. As a Black and genderqueer individual, I am passionate about working with clients who are multicultural and who are members of the LGBTQAAI2S+ community through an intersectionality lens. I find joy in helping clients explore their gender, racial and/or sexuality identities, and process trauma through use of creative self-expression, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strengths-Based Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness. I help clients build healthy coping skills, find their strengths, narrate their own stories, and develop healthy thought patterns.
My name is KT Moore and my pronouns are they/them. As a Black and genderqueer individual, I am passionate about working with clients who are multicultural and who are members of the LGBTQAAI2S+ community through an intersectionality lens. I find joy in helping clients explore their gender, racial and/or sexuality identities, and process trauma through use of creative self-expression, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strengths-Based Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness. I help clients build healthy coping skills, find their strengths, narrate their own stories, and develop healthy thought patterns.
(480) 685-9072 View (480) 685-9072
Photo of Joshua Johnson, LMSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85037
Specialties: Trauma/PTSD, Grief/Loss, Perinatal Mental Health (During Pregnancy & Postpartum), Fertility Issues, LGBT Issues, Cultural differences among African American Families, Marriage & Family Issues.
Having been in the field of behavioral health and counseling for 15 years I can understand that we all experience trauma and severe life stressors' that leave us feeling stuck and hopeless. Your crisis may be a breakup, depression, relationship issues, anxiety, chronic illness, or something that is so overwhelming that you are struggling with life. Often times we hold ourselves in bondage to the choices we have made. I believe some of life's most difficult experiences lead us to our most extraordinary growth. I will give you the tools to move forward from past attachments that seem to keep you stagnate in your life.
Specialties: Trauma/PTSD, Grief/Loss, Perinatal Mental Health (During Pregnancy & Postpartum), Fertility Issues, LGBT Issues, Cultural differences among African American Families, Marriage & Family Issues.
Having been in the field of behavioral health and counseling for 15 years I can understand that we all experience trauma and severe life stressors' that leave us feeling stuck and hopeless. Your crisis may be a breakup, depression, relationship issues, anxiety, chronic illness, or something that is so overwhelming that you are struggling with life. Often times we hold ourselves in bondage to the choices we have made. I believe some of life's most difficult experiences lead us to our most extraordinary growth. I will give you the tools to move forward from past attachments that seem to keep you stagnate in your life.
(520) 317-6987 View (520) 317-6987
Photo of Christopher Trotman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Trotman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004  (Online Only)
I also specialize in working with black male's as well as other minorities, because let's be real, it's nice to talk to someone who gets it.
Hey there! If you're here, you may be starting (or continuing) a journey of self-discovery. As a dedicated licensed master social worker, I'm honored to assist you. I know reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes. If you’re willing to take that intimidating first step, I promise you- I will do my best in helping make it as easy and enjoyable for you as I possibly can. I aim to create a healing space, where we'll laugh together, you may cry, and you'll feel ready to overcome challenges. Shoot me an email and we'll schedule a free 15 min consultation! Now accepting clients in AZ only
I also specialize in working with black male's as well as other minorities, because let's be real, it's nice to talk to someone who gets it.
Hey there! If you're here, you may be starting (or continuing) a journey of self-discovery. As a dedicated licensed master social worker, I'm honored to assist you. I know reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes. If you’re willing to take that intimidating first step, I promise you- I will do my best in helping make it as easy and enjoyable for you as I possibly can. I aim to create a healing space, where we'll laugh together, you may cry, and you'll feel ready to overcome challenges. Shoot me an email and we'll schedule a free 15 min consultation! Now accepting clients in AZ only
(602) 598-5911 View (602) 598-5911
Photo of Shania Collins, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shania Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
As a Black and queer individual, I recognize how important representation and relatability is.
I am passionate about providing a supportive and genuine space in which you can heal, feel, and thrive. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, strengths-based, and tailored to your needs while using evidenced-based treatments. I enjoy working with individuals who are committed to their mental health journey and are passionate about their personal growth.
As a Black and queer individual, I recognize how important representation and relatability is.
I am passionate about providing a supportive and genuine space in which you can heal, feel, and thrive. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, strengths-based, and tailored to your needs while using evidenced-based treatments. I enjoy working with individuals who are committed to their mental health journey and are passionate about their personal growth.
(480) 618-1587 x711 View (480) 618-1587 x711
Photo of Dr. Tuwana T Wingfield - Soulful Balance Therapy, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Soulful Balance Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Have you ever felt like you must be perfect all the time, and that any mistake could ruin your chances of success? If so, you are not alone. Many people struggle with the pressure of high expectations and low self-esteem. I offer Soulful Balance Therapy, a holistic and culturally responsive approach to mental health and wellness. My goal is to help you overcome your challenges, achieve your goals, and live a balanced and fulfilling life. As a Black woman, who came from humble beginnings, I understand the pressure to feel like you cannot make a mistake. I practice with a sense of cultural humility and compassion.
Have you ever felt like you must be perfect all the time, and that any mistake could ruin your chances of success? If so, you are not alone. Many people struggle with the pressure of high expectations and low self-esteem. I offer Soulful Balance Therapy, a holistic and culturally responsive approach to mental health and wellness. My goal is to help you overcome your challenges, achieve your goals, and live a balanced and fulfilling life. As a Black woman, who came from humble beginnings, I understand the pressure to feel like you cannot make a mistake. I practice with a sense of cultural humility and compassion.
(928) 599-4596 View (928) 599-4596
Photo of Janea Fredia, Pre-Licensed Professional
Janea Fredia
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85281
As a black female therapist, I can easily connect and identify with clients who struggle with past traumatic experiences, issues of trust, and the pressure of daily life stressors.
I am passionate about helping clients improve their relationships with themselves, families, and friends by enhancing their communication and increasing their emotional intelligence. I am committed to assisting clients in regaining a sense of meaning and purpose by redefining their values, beliefs, needs, and goals. Mutual trust, respect, consistency, empathy, and rapport allow the time spent exploring patterns, identifying problem areas, and developing newer and healthier ways to cope with everyday stressors and struggles.
As a black female therapist, I can easily connect and identify with clients who struggle with past traumatic experiences, issues of trust, and the pressure of daily life stressors.
I am passionate about helping clients improve their relationships with themselves, families, and friends by enhancing their communication and increasing their emotional intelligence. I am committed to assisting clients in regaining a sense of meaning and purpose by redefining their values, beliefs, needs, and goals. Mutual trust, respect, consistency, empathy, and rapport allow the time spent exploring patterns, identifying problem areas, and developing newer and healthier ways to cope with everyday stressors and struggles.
(312) 465-5980 View (312) 465-5980
Photo of Vickey L Simmons-Hart, MA, MS, Counselor
Vickey L Simmons-Hart
Counselor, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282  (Online Only)
As a dedicated mental health counselor, I am unwaveringly committed to serving underrepresented communities, particularly the Black and LGBTQIA+ communities. I take pride in offering an all-inclusive and affirming environment, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, sexual orientations, and relationship dynamics, including sex positivity, kink positivity, and consensual non-monogamy/alternative relationships. I’ve been privileged to accompany individuals of all ages and backgrounds on their healing and personal growth paths.
As a dedicated mental health counselor, I am unwaveringly committed to serving underrepresented communities, particularly the Black and LGBTQIA+ communities. I take pride in offering an all-inclusive and affirming environment, welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, sexual orientations, and relationship dynamics, including sex positivity, kink positivity, and consensual non-monogamy/alternative relationships. I’ve been privileged to accompany individuals of all ages and backgrounds on their healing and personal growth paths.
(623) 624-8701 View (623) 624-8701
Photo of Dr. Da'mond Omar Gadson - ABRA Health “Dr. Gadson”, DBH,  LPC, MPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
ABRA Health “Dr. Gadson”
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC, MPC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85034
I’m a Bilingual “Spanish and English” African American/ Black Psychological Therapist with a Doctorate Degree. I work with all client ages, backgrounds, and behavioral needs. With an in-depth understanding of psychological disorders, treatment techniques, diagnosis, interventions, and referrals. This includes performing assessment and psychological testing with multiple disciplinary teams in Primary Care, Integrated Care and mental health settings. I provide solution to problems by using client’s strengths to combat challenges. I integrate the role of the mind, body, and spirit in therapy.
I’m a Bilingual “Spanish and English” African American/ Black Psychological Therapist with a Doctorate Degree. I work with all client ages, backgrounds, and behavioral needs. With an in-depth understanding of psychological disorders, treatment techniques, diagnosis, interventions, and referrals. This includes performing assessment and psychological testing with multiple disciplinary teams in Primary Care, Integrated Care and mental health settings. I provide solution to problems by using client’s strengths to combat challenges. I integrate the role of the mind, body, and spirit in therapy.
(602) 671-0119 View (602) 671-0119
Photo of Benjamin Ayantola, MS, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Benjamin Ayantola
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Oro Valley, AZ 85755
This has allowed me to live within three different cultures throughout my life; the Deaf culture, the Hearing culture, and the African-American culture.
Day by day life teaches us something new about ourselves and how we adjust to the obstacles that emerge in front of us. Overall wellness is often a process, one in which we may have the desire to pursue but lack the skillset to achieve. I strive to come along side of you in your pursuit to invest in yourself and mental wellbeing. Engaging in counseling services is an excellent way to deepen your self-awareness, and explore what you truly are capable of accomplishing in your life.
This has allowed me to live within three different cultures throughout my life; the Deaf culture, the Hearing culture, and the African-American culture.
Day by day life teaches us something new about ourselves and how we adjust to the obstacles that emerge in front of us. Overall wellness is often a process, one in which we may have the desire to pursue but lack the skillset to achieve. I strive to come along side of you in your pursuit to invest in yourself and mental wellbeing. Engaging in counseling services is an excellent way to deepen your self-awareness, and explore what you truly are capable of accomplishing in your life.
(520) 447-2446 View (520) 447-2446
Photo of Marquita McCollum - Ember of Joy Therapy, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ember of Joy Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340  (Online Only)
Are you or your loved ones feeling overwhelmed with life stressors? Sometimes our past hurt can affect how we see ourselves and the people around us. They can affect our thoughts, feelings, and actions. You don’t have to go through life challenges alone. I’m here to help you alleviate those worries and find solutions. I offer individual therapy and provide a safe space for you to process your emotions while embracing change, growth, and healing. Imagine feeling heard, understood, and gaining the confidence to communicate effectively while cultivating healthy relationships in your life.
Are you or your loved ones feeling overwhelmed with life stressors? Sometimes our past hurt can affect how we see ourselves and the people around us. They can affect our thoughts, feelings, and actions. You don’t have to go through life challenges alone. I’m here to help you alleviate those worries and find solutions. I offer individual therapy and provide a safe space for you to process your emotions while embracing change, growth, and healing. Imagine feeling heard, understood, and gaining the confidence to communicate effectively while cultivating healthy relationships in your life.
(623) 304-9138 View (623) 304-9138
Photo of John Burt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Burt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85281
You find yourself in one of the toughest seasons of your life. You’re experiencing a traumatizing event (a breakup, a job loss, the death of a loved one, loneliness, or maybe you’re just plain unhappy with life). You might have also experienced a rough childhood where you endured critical, judgmental, or abusive parents. This is how trauma presence itself in our lives, and when it goes unaddressed it will show up as: anxiety, depression, anger, self-judgment, uncertainty, addiction and a host of other things that let’s us know we have some unhealed parts we have to attend to. You want to heal/improve, but don't know where to start.
You find yourself in one of the toughest seasons of your life. You’re experiencing a traumatizing event (a breakup, a job loss, the death of a loved one, loneliness, or maybe you’re just plain unhappy with life). You might have also experienced a rough childhood where you endured critical, judgmental, or abusive parents. This is how trauma presence itself in our lives, and when it goes unaddressed it will show up as: anxiety, depression, anger, self-judgment, uncertainty, addiction and a host of other things that let’s us know we have some unhealed parts we have to attend to. You want to heal/improve, but don't know where to start.
(480) 613-9812 View (480) 613-9812
Photo of Chikaodi Banor, DNP, APRN, MSN/Ed, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Chikaodi Banor
DNP, APRN, MSN/Ed, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85225
At Pulse Healthcare Solutions we provide medication management to our patients Mondays through Fridays from 8 AM to 5 PM. We are closed from 12 pm to 1 pm for lunch, and on most major holidays. Same day appointments and walk in appts are available.
At Pulse Healthcare Solutions we provide medication management to our patients Mondays through Fridays from 8 AM to 5 PM. We are closed from 12 pm to 1 pm for lunch, and on most major holidays. Same day appointments and walk in appts are available.
(480) 631-9360 View (480) 631-9360
Photo of Lisa M. Clark, LMFT, MS, MPA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa M. Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, MPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85224
Infidelity, conflict, communication problems, lack of intimacy? I can help. I am devoted to strengthening couples through helping restore connections, create new healthy interactions, and develop safe and secure bonds. I create a safe, non-judgmental place to work through many of life's challenges. My approach to the struggles within a couples relationships is to identify the negative cycle that keeps couples from connecting, understanding their attachment needs, and expressing their emotions. I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Method to improve relationships, develop stronger connections and meaningful communication.
Infidelity, conflict, communication problems, lack of intimacy? I can help. I am devoted to strengthening couples through helping restore connections, create new healthy interactions, and develop safe and secure bonds. I create a safe, non-judgmental place to work through many of life's challenges. My approach to the struggles within a couples relationships is to identify the negative cycle that keeps couples from connecting, understanding their attachment needs, and expressing their emotions. I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Method to improve relationships, develop stronger connections and meaningful communication.
(480) 526-5799 View (480) 526-5799

Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Marana

See More Black and African American Therapists
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.