Black and African American Therapists in California

Photo of Kamila LaShaun Houston Baker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kamila LaShaun Houston Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
Everyone deserves the freedom to define themselves and access services that genuinely meet their needs. I am here to support you process through past experiences that are keeping you stuck and build your confidence to create the life you want. As a Black, Queer, and Genderqueer therapist, I offer individual and group therapy services that honor and center Black and other POC communities. I am currently offering bi-weekly, in-person appointments
Everyone deserves the freedom to define themselves and access services that genuinely meet their needs. I am here to support you process through past experiences that are keeping you stuck and build your confidence to create the life you want. As a Black, Queer, and Genderqueer therapist, I offer individual and group therapy services that honor and center Black and other POC communities. I am currently offering bi-weekly, in-person appointments
(510) 876-4897 View (510) 876-4897
Photo of Ifeyinwa A Nzerem, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ifeyinwa A Nzerem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94188  (Online Only)
In addition, I have provided trainings and seminars with the Bay Area Association of Black Social Workers (BAABSW), Black Family Preservation Symposium, on Eating Disorders (primarily Binge Eating Disorder), Mind, Body & Self-Care, and the Success of Exercise.
I specialize in Eating Disorders (primarily with Binge Eating Disorder and Obesity) to a culturally diverse population. I provide treatment for health & wellness lifestyle issues, family vs. blended family crises, anxiety & depression, binge eating, substance abuse/dependencies, employment challenges and loss & bereavement. I also provide community referrals and resources that will assist and support client's daily challenges and obstacles. I enjoy working with others and I am experience in treating families from all ethnic backgrounds with disadvantage, traumatic, and abusive histories.
In addition, I have provided trainings and seminars with the Bay Area Association of Black Social Workers (BAABSW), Black Family Preservation Symposium, on Eating Disorders (primarily Binge Eating Disorder), Mind, Body & Self-Care, and the Success of Exercise.
I specialize in Eating Disorders (primarily with Binge Eating Disorder and Obesity) to a culturally diverse population. I provide treatment for health & wellness lifestyle issues, family vs. blended family crises, anxiety & depression, binge eating, substance abuse/dependencies, employment challenges and loss & bereavement. I also provide community referrals and resources that will assist and support client's daily challenges and obstacles. I enjoy working with others and I am experience in treating families from all ethnic backgrounds with disadvantage, traumatic, and abusive histories.
(415) 767-0743 View (415) 767-0743
Photo of Leroy Watts, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leroy Watts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I am not accepting couples currently. I work with individuals, but my focus is African American men in their first five years of marriage. My goal is to help you become more authentic in your relationships, find and live your values, and bring more peace and growth into your life. I also work with men who want to grow in terms of how they show up in their relationships. I am trained in DBT, Gottman, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness based approaches.
I am not accepting couples currently. I work with individuals, but my focus is African American men in their first five years of marriage. My goal is to help you become more authentic in your relationships, find and live your values, and bring more peace and growth into your life. I also work with men who want to grow in terms of how they show up in their relationships. I am trained in DBT, Gottman, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness based approaches.
(510) 369-2948 View (510) 369-2948
Photo of James Edwards, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rodeo, CA 94572  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes we get to places in life where we get stuck. Maybe it’s an issue at the job or at home. Perhaps you’ve been dealing with feelings of depression, anxiety, or overwhelming anger. It is my goal to help you sort out how to deal with your challenges and support you develop into a better you. I also know that I am an African American cisgender male, and I want to use my presence in the therapy field to help increase the comfort level for males and minorities to receive clinical services.
Sometimes we get to places in life where we get stuck. Maybe it’s an issue at the job or at home. Perhaps you’ve been dealing with feelings of depression, anxiety, or overwhelming anger. It is my goal to help you sort out how to deal with your challenges and support you develop into a better you. I also know that I am an African American cisgender male, and I want to use my presence in the therapy field to help increase the comfort level for males and minorities to receive clinical services.
(510) 621-6234 View (510) 621-6234
Photo of Cathy A Thompson, PhD, Psychologist
Cathy A Thompson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
I identify as a queer, Biracial ( Black/White), Feminist Multicultural Psychologist and I am passionate about diversity, equity, and social justice.
I enjoy working with folks who need support in managing a wide variety of issues from self-esteem and identity concerns to the stress of dealing with multiple roles, relationships, and life demands (as students, partners, friends, parents, new professionals, family members, community activists, etc.) My clinical interests include multicultural and women's issues, racial/ethnic identity development (especially among biracial/multi-racial/ethnic/cultural individuals), sexual and gender identity development, adjustment and transition issues, and building healthy relationships through assertive communication and positive self-esteem.
I identify as a queer, Biracial ( Black/White), Feminist Multicultural Psychologist and I am passionate about diversity, equity, and social justice.
I enjoy working with folks who need support in managing a wide variety of issues from self-esteem and identity concerns to the stress of dealing with multiple roles, relationships, and life demands (as students, partners, friends, parents, new professionals, family members, community activists, etc.) My clinical interests include multicultural and women's issues, racial/ethnic identity development (especially among biracial/multi-racial/ethnic/cultural individuals), sexual and gender identity development, adjustment and transition issues, and building healthy relationships through assertive communication and positive self-esteem.
(858) 925-5901 View (858) 925-5901
Photo of Rickey A Bates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rickey A Bates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90501
Waitlist for new clients
I have been in practice as a psychotherapist for over 7 years. My Master’s in Social Work focused on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality and how our different life experiences shape and influence how we navigate our surroundings. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, BIPOC ( Black, Indigenous Person of Color) & LGBTQIA, and a veteran of the United States Armed Forces, some of my approaches in helping my clients identify their challenges and barriers to their identified problems start from a person-centered approach by discovering who they are and what they need and want in life.
I have been in practice as a psychotherapist for over 7 years. My Master’s in Social Work focused on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality and how our different life experiences shape and influence how we navigate our surroundings. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, BIPOC ( Black, Indigenous Person of Color) & LGBTQIA, and a veteran of the United States Armed Forces, some of my approaches in helping my clients identify their challenges and barriers to their identified problems start from a person-centered approach by discovering who they are and what they need and want in life.
(562) 207-5446 View (562) 207-5446
Photo of Jaha Higgs, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jaha Higgs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019
I have been successful in supporting clients facing challenges such as, depression, anxiety, life transition, difficulties with work, family conflict, relationship concerns, stress, trauma, loss and grief, creativity, cultural issues, and racial trauma. I work with clients from all paths of life, including, artists/ creatives, adolescents, LGBTQIA+ individuals. I am committed to being a part of the collective effort to make mental health services more accessible for marginalized communities; therefore, I especially welcome clients who are Black, Indigenous, or who are of color.
I have been successful in supporting clients facing challenges such as, depression, anxiety, life transition, difficulties with work, family conflict, relationship concerns, stress, trauma, loss and grief, creativity, cultural issues, and racial trauma. I work with clients from all paths of life, including, artists/ creatives, adolescents, LGBTQIA+ individuals. I am committed to being a part of the collective effort to make mental health services more accessible for marginalized communities; therefore, I especially welcome clients who are Black, Indigenous, or who are of color.
(213) 577-2385 View (213) 577-2385
Photo of Gayle Janet Whitlock - GWhitlock- New Leaf Counseling and Psychotherapy, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
GWhitlock- New Leaf Counseling and Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705  (Online Only)
Welcome: I see you juggling work, family, relationships, and cultural identity while your self care has been placed on the back burner. As a woman of color, you may find yourself working twice as hard yet often getting half as much for your trouble. You want to live a full juicy life yet find yourself feeling stuck. I see you and I've got your back. It is my passion to support and encourage women (and a few sensitive men) who are ready to move past surviving to thriving. I work with women of all races and I am especially passionate in supporting Black Women and WOC who are desiring to be seen and heard.
Welcome: I see you juggling work, family, relationships, and cultural identity while your self care has been placed on the back burner. As a woman of color, you may find yourself working twice as hard yet often getting half as much for your trouble. You want to live a full juicy life yet find yourself feeling stuck. I see you and I've got your back. It is my passion to support and encourage women (and a few sensitive men) who are ready to move past surviving to thriving. I work with women of all races and I am especially passionate in supporting Black Women and WOC who are desiring to be seen and heard.
(707) 785-8526 View (707) 785-8526
Photo of Sheila Thomas, Psy D, MA, Psychologist
Sheila Thomas
Psychologist, Psy D, MA
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93710
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist at A Mind Above. My goal is to help you become who you want to be. I work with teens, families, adults and older adults from multiple cultural backgrounds (special focus on LatinX and Black communities). In addition to treating anxiety and depression, I offer services for trauma and PTSD, issues of Black mental health, Bipolar Disorder, cultural stress, care planning for older adults, social skills deficits, and brief cognitive assessment.
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist at A Mind Above. My goal is to help you become who you want to be. I work with teens, families, adults and older adults from multiple cultural backgrounds (special focus on LatinX and Black communities). In addition to treating anxiety and depression, I offer services for trauma and PTSD, issues of Black mental health, Bipolar Disorder, cultural stress, care planning for older adults, social skills deficits, and brief cognitive assessment.
(559) 338-6841 View (559) 338-6841
Photo of Malcolm Jay, APCC, MCMHC, NCC, LPC Intern
Malcolm Jay
LPC Intern, APCC, MCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034
As a Black queer trans man, my focus is on creating an affirming, compassionate, open, and explorative space that meets people where they are and only serves to assist them in getting themselves where they want to be.
I hold the belief that we grow and change through relationships and because of that my style is relational, trauma informed, collaborative and social justice centered. It is not my job or purpose to help create tools for capitalism. I believe there are no predetermined paths or timelines for healing, and that the best way to get where you want is to focus on what keeps you safe, allows you time to rest and helps you create the community you want and need to thrive.
As a Black queer trans man, my focus is on creating an affirming, compassionate, open, and explorative space that meets people where they are and only serves to assist them in getting themselves where they want to be.
I hold the belief that we grow and change through relationships and because of that my style is relational, trauma informed, collaborative and social justice centered. It is not my job or purpose to help create tools for capitalism. I believe there are no predetermined paths or timelines for healing, and that the best way to get where you want is to focus on what keeps you safe, allows you time to rest and helps you create the community you want and need to thrive.
(310) 715-8308 View (310) 715-8308
Photo of Roz Katonah, MA , LPCC, Counselor
Roz Katonah
Counselor, MA , LPCC
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95404  (Online Only)
As a black latinx multi-racial person who identifies as non-binary and trans-masculine, I have experience working with all types of people from many different backgrounds.
Our lives here on earth are a creative experience! At times, we need a place to rest and tend to our inner world. I view the therapeutic process as a brave space to access parts of ourselves that we want to grow and transform. My goal in working with you is to provide a supportive environment that will cultivate an increased awareness of your needs, self-compassion and understanding of who you are becoming.
As a black latinx multi-racial person who identifies as non-binary and trans-masculine, I have experience working with all types of people from many different backgrounds.
Our lives here on earth are a creative experience! At times, we need a place to rest and tend to our inner world. I view the therapeutic process as a brave space to access parts of ourselves that we want to grow and transform. My goal in working with you is to provide a supportive environment that will cultivate an increased awareness of your needs, self-compassion and understanding of who you are becoming.
(530) 771-6558 View (530) 771-6558
Photo of Stacie Turks, PsyD, Psychologist
Stacie Turks
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
I am looking for clients who are experiencing challenges in their life and are open to trying something new to make a change. That something new might be a behavior or adopting a new perspective. I am especially interested in the Black population who are navigating the world as a minority and others who would like to deepen their understanding of different cultures. I spent 17 years working with college students who had myriad reasons for coming to therapy; everything from homesickness to suicidal intent.
I am looking for clients who are experiencing challenges in their life and are open to trying something new to make a change. That something new might be a behavior or adopting a new perspective. I am especially interested in the Black population who are navigating the world as a minority and others who would like to deepen their understanding of different cultures. I spent 17 years working with college students who had myriad reasons for coming to therapy; everything from homesickness to suicidal intent.
(626) 726-6782 View (626) 726-6782
Photo of Zaakirah Daniels, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zaakirah Daniels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burbank, CA 91503  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer solutions-focused coaching-style therapy for rebellious, high-achieving folks with depression and EMDR for Black women - all in service of getting you out of those same ol patterns of people pleasing, avoiding conflict, and playing small that keep you bound to a version of yourself that you don't recognize.
Is your sense of self slipping through your fingers? Maybe you're feeling exhausted by what living up to someone else’s standards has meant for you. . . but just the thought of putting your needs ahead of everyone else's sends you into a guilt spiral. Or maybe you followed all the rules, did everything “right,” and you’re still not seeing the proof of "happiness" and "success" in your pudding. I. Get. It. I've been there (and made it out) and now I coach adults navigating their own life transitions how to reclaim their agency after educational, workplace, and relational trauma.
I offer solutions-focused coaching-style therapy for rebellious, high-achieving folks with depression and EMDR for Black women - all in service of getting you out of those same ol patterns of people pleasing, avoiding conflict, and playing small that keep you bound to a version of yourself that you don't recognize.
Is your sense of self slipping through your fingers? Maybe you're feeling exhausted by what living up to someone else’s standards has meant for you. . . but just the thought of putting your needs ahead of everyone else's sends you into a guilt spiral. Or maybe you followed all the rules, did everything “right,” and you’re still not seeing the proof of "happiness" and "success" in your pudding. I. Get. It. I've been there (and made it out) and now I coach adults navigating their own life transitions how to reclaim their agency after educational, workplace, and relational trauma.
(661) 669-8483 View (661) 669-8483
Photo of Tayyibah Chase, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tayyibah Chase
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
As a Black woman, NICU mama, and birth trauma survivor, I understand how overwhelming this journey can be.
Do you find yourself facing the same challenges repeatedly? Feeling stuck in a pattern you just can’t break? Sometimes, life’s usual coping methods stop working. We try to push through, read self-help books, and listen to podcasts—yet nothing changes. We know something needs to shift, but we’re unsure how. In my practice, therapy begins with building a trusting relationship. Together, we’ll explore your past, clarify your values, and move forward with awareness.
As a Black woman, NICU mama, and birth trauma survivor, I understand how overwhelming this journey can be.
Do you find yourself facing the same challenges repeatedly? Feeling stuck in a pattern you just can’t break? Sometimes, life’s usual coping methods stop working. We try to push through, read self-help books, and listen to podcasts—yet nothing changes. We know something needs to shift, but we’re unsure how. In my practice, therapy begins with building a trusting relationship. Together, we’ll explore your past, clarify your values, and move forward with awareness.
(510) 390-7486 View (510) 390-7486
Photo of La Keeta Behn-Vasquez, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
La Keeta Behn-Vasquez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Inglewood, CA 90301  (Online Only)
As humans, we are wired for connection, but couples often get stuck in a negative cycle of conflict that blocks that connection and leaves them desperate to find it again. Please, don't give up on your relationship; there is hope, and I am here to help you dissolve those blocks and create new ways of feeling heard, seen, and understood. I especially enjoy working in the Christian, African-American, and Latin communities.
As humans, we are wired for connection, but couples often get stuck in a negative cycle of conflict that blocks that connection and leaves them desperate to find it again. Please, don't give up on your relationship; there is hope, and I am here to help you dissolve those blocks and create new ways of feeling heard, seen, and understood. I especially enjoy working in the Christian, African-American, and Latin communities.
(310) 388-8319 View (310) 388-8319
Photo of Kimberly Tyler-Brown, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Tyler-Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
Whether you searched “EMDR therapists near me”, “ Black therapists in Long Beach”, or “Couples counseling”, you’re in the right place.
I know that it can be hard sometimes to ask for help. Are you feeling the pressure to be everything to everyone, and not having the same support? Do you have feelings of not being enough, and hearing that inner critic remind you of your past? Have you been suppressing your emotions and find yourself being emotional "out of the blue" and unable to understand why? Are you feeling unappreciated, underestimated, unworthy, or unbalanced? Taking the first steps on the road to heal can be scary, I am here to support, encourage & empower you. To support you as you release the anger, release the stress and restore the love.
Whether you searched “EMDR therapists near me”, “ Black therapists in Long Beach”, or “Couples counseling”, you’re in the right place.
I know that it can be hard sometimes to ask for help. Are you feeling the pressure to be everything to everyone, and not having the same support? Do you have feelings of not being enough, and hearing that inner critic remind you of your past? Have you been suppressing your emotions and find yourself being emotional "out of the blue" and unable to understand why? Are you feeling unappreciated, underestimated, unworthy, or unbalanced? Taking the first steps on the road to heal can be scary, I am here to support, encourage & empower you. To support you as you release the anger, release the stress and restore the love.
(562) 548-7280 View (562) 548-7280
Photo of Uriah Cty, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Uriah Cty
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90211  (Online Only)
I have a significant background working with the Black community and other communities of color, as well as the LGBTQ and non-binary communities.
Maybe you remember this scene from a movie; picture it, a peaceful airplane ride becomes turbulent. The plane begins losing altitude rapidly. The flight attendant urgently instructs you to "put your oxygen mask on first" before helping others. That simple, but critical statement, is just as important in our everyday lives. Remembering to take time to yourself, non selfishly, can be difficult for anyone who tends to place others' needs first. Together, we'll explore your thoughts, feelings, decisions, choices, wants, and needs in your therapy. I will assist you in" finding your voice" and help you to "put your oxygen mask on first.
I have a significant background working with the Black community and other communities of color, as well as the LGBTQ and non-binary communities.
Maybe you remember this scene from a movie; picture it, a peaceful airplane ride becomes turbulent. The plane begins losing altitude rapidly. The flight attendant urgently instructs you to "put your oxygen mask on first" before helping others. That simple, but critical statement, is just as important in our everyday lives. Remembering to take time to yourself, non selfishly, can be difficult for anyone who tends to place others' needs first. Together, we'll explore your thoughts, feelings, decisions, choices, wants, and needs in your therapy. I will assist you in" finding your voice" and help you to "put your oxygen mask on first.
(213) 513-5553 View (213) 513-5553
Photo of Camille Tenerife, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Camille Tenerife
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90004
As a black therapist in Los Angeles, I understand what it is like to navigate both the beauty and challenges of being a POC. I help those who want to unpack their racial/cultural experiences and are looking for a culturally competent therapist. I guide BIPOC professionals in their careers, helping you find fulfillment and work-life balance. If you want to find solace and understanding, I’m here to help. In addition, I support interracial couples in navigating challenges in communication and bridging the gap between each of your experiences.
As a black therapist in Los Angeles, I understand what it is like to navigate both the beauty and challenges of being a POC. I help those who want to unpack their racial/cultural experiences and are looking for a culturally competent therapist. I guide BIPOC professionals in their careers, helping you find fulfillment and work-life balance. If you want to find solace and understanding, I’m here to help. In addition, I support interracial couples in navigating challenges in communication and bridging the gap between each of your experiences.
(424) 396-5044 View (424) 396-5044
Photo of James Birks, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
James Birks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90044  (Online Only)
As a Black/Gay Therapist I understand the importance of community and the detrimental impacts that systemic racial and social injustice bring.
In today's world It can be so difficult to connect to our truth and live as our authentic selves. My mission is to create a non-judgmental, supportive and affirmative environment that will encourage you to heal, to grow and to reach your fullest potential. Through collaboration, empathetic listening and challenging negative patterns we will work together and help you reach your goals. Embarking on a therapeutic journey takes hard work, vulnerability and commitment. So if you are willing to put in the work I am committed to helping you succeed.
As a Black/Gay Therapist I understand the importance of community and the detrimental impacts that systemic racial and social injustice bring.
In today's world It can be so difficult to connect to our truth and live as our authentic selves. My mission is to create a non-judgmental, supportive and affirmative environment that will encourage you to heal, to grow and to reach your fullest potential. Through collaboration, empathetic listening and challenging negative patterns we will work together and help you reach your goals. Embarking on a therapeutic journey takes hard work, vulnerability and commitment. So if you are willing to put in the work I am committed to helping you succeed.
(213) 375-2191 View (213) 375-2191
Photo of Lakia Wolfarth-Davis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lakia Wolfarth-Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Personally, I am a queer black woman and that means I have had to navigate the world differently.
I believe we are all whole but sometimes life circumstances, the way we grew up, the way we are treated by society/systems based on our identities, etc. can cloud the way in which we see ourselves or which tools we have access to. I specialize in working with clients who have experienced complex trauma due to race, gender, sexual orientation, abuse, violence, historical events and poverty. My hope is to help create more tools, help unpack the trauma, identify YOUR strengths and your understanding of yourself and help you navigate the world in a way that feels true to YOU.
Personally, I am a queer black woman and that means I have had to navigate the world differently.
I believe we are all whole but sometimes life circumstances, the way we grew up, the way we are treated by society/systems based on our identities, etc. can cloud the way in which we see ourselves or which tools we have access to. I specialize in working with clients who have experienced complex trauma due to race, gender, sexual orientation, abuse, violence, historical events and poverty. My hope is to help create more tools, help unpack the trauma, identify YOUR strengths and your understanding of yourself and help you navigate the world in a way that feels true to YOU.
(510) 944-0973 View (510) 944-0973
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