Black and African American Therapists in Decatur, GA
![Photo of Regina Sewell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e2cbf06-f0c6-47ac-9749-5987cdf8c6b9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Regina Sewell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30033 (Online Only)
Do you feel like you've been following a career and life path that doesn’t truly belong to you? If the life prescribed for you feels misaligned and unfulfilling, I’m here to help you realize your potential and create a life that truly resonates with who you are. As a therapist specializing in empathetic and liberation-focused work, I am passionate about supporting Black individuals of all gender identities. I provide an emotionally safe space for highly impactful and energetically sensitive individuals seeking integrative and holistic support for anxiety, depression, trauma, and personal growth.
Do you feel like you've been following a career and life path that doesn’t truly belong to you? If the life prescribed for you feels misaligned and unfulfilling, I’m here to help you realize your potential and create a life that truly resonates with who you are. As a therapist specializing in empathetic and liberation-focused work, I am passionate about supporting Black individuals of all gender identities. I provide an emotionally safe space for highly impactful and energetically sensitive individuals seeking integrative and holistic support for anxiety, depression, trauma, and personal growth.
![Photo of Julius Jessup Peterson, MDiv, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/916db90a-055a-4c82-b4d1-2c9e0b7f0ecd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Julius Jessup Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LCSW
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I seek to create a safe and inclusive space for black-bodied individuals, LGBTQ+ folks, survivors of trauma, sex workers, and clients who are struggling with relationship and intimacy issues. My approach to mental health care is rooted in anti-oppressive and decolonizing frameworks. The treatment modalities that I use have been found to be effective across many cultures, ages, genders, and experiences. I am here to support my clients in rediscovering themselves, strengthening their mind-body connection, and living the life they have always wanted.
I seek to create a safe and inclusive space for black-bodied individuals, LGBTQ+ folks, survivors of trauma, sex workers, and clients who are struggling with relationship and intimacy issues. My approach to mental health care is rooted in anti-oppressive and decolonizing frameworks. The treatment modalities that I use have been found to be effective across many cultures, ages, genders, and experiences. I am here to support my clients in rediscovering themselves, strengthening their mind-body connection, and living the life they have always wanted.
![Photo of Sierra Hillsman, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3e029ec-ce04-47e2-8193-ef0dae81b228/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sierra Hillsman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
With every twist and turn of life's happenings come the fear of uncertainty, grieving the loss of what once was, and even the excitement of what's to come. I'm here to tell you that your thoughts, feelings, and emotions do not have to be as black and white as the world would try to make them out to be. As a trauma-informed professional, I am passionate about helping clients who seek to heal from their life experiences. Whether you're starting or strengthening your wellness journey, my intentions are to cultivate a safe space for you to redefine a new sense of normalcy on your own terms.
With every twist and turn of life's happenings come the fear of uncertainty, grieving the loss of what once was, and even the excitement of what's to come. I'm here to tell you that your thoughts, feelings, and emotions do not have to be as black and white as the world would try to make them out to be. As a trauma-informed professional, I am passionate about helping clients who seek to heal from their life experiences. Whether you're starting or strengthening your wellness journey, my intentions are to cultivate a safe space for you to redefine a new sense of normalcy on your own terms.
![Photo of Dr. Raven K. Cokley, PhD, APC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf7705e5-4b2b-4874-841b-6c825fbb63e9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Raven K. Cokley
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30033 (Online Only)
If you are looking for a Black woman therapist to serve as a support and guide along your journey to healing, liberation, affirmation, and wellness, then I am the counselor for you.
You’re trying to navigate all of the transitions that come with being a teenager or young adult in the world. Maybe you feel overwhelmed and isolated as you try to do it all on your own. Transitions aren’t easy, whether you’re moving from one career to another, out of relationships that no longer serve you, or from college to graduate school. As hard as it can feel when you’re in the midst of it, these changes offer an opportunity for you to explore where you come from, who you are, and who you want to be.
If you are looking for a Black woman therapist to serve as a support and guide along your journey to healing, liberation, affirmation, and wellness, then I am the counselor for you.
You’re trying to navigate all of the transitions that come with being a teenager or young adult in the world. Maybe you feel overwhelmed and isolated as you try to do it all on your own. Transitions aren’t easy, whether you’re moving from one career to another, out of relationships that no longer serve you, or from college to graduate school. As hard as it can feel when you’re in the midst of it, these changes offer an opportunity for you to explore where you come from, who you are, and who you want to be.
![Photo of Dr. Vernon T. Scott, EdD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be39fa32-37dc-4671-92eb-f7ae71f7c31a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Vernon T. Scott
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdD
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30033 (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with Black men; however, I also have a strong passion for working with survivors of sexual violence, adults who have experienced childhood sexual abuse, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and kink-friendly couples.
Are you having issues communicating with your partner and expressing your wants and needs? Are you experiencing a decline or issues with sexual satisfaction or pleasure? Are you a survivor of sexual violence or an adult survivor of childhood sexual abuse? Are you a Black male at the beginning stages of your therapeutic journey? I work with clients that are over the age of 18, all orientations/identities, and all relationship structures.
I am passionate about working with Black men; however, I also have a strong passion for working with survivors of sexual violence, adults who have experienced childhood sexual abuse, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and kink-friendly couples.
Are you having issues communicating with your partner and expressing your wants and needs? Are you experiencing a decline or issues with sexual satisfaction or pleasure? Are you a survivor of sexual violence or an adult survivor of childhood sexual abuse? Are you a Black male at the beginning stages of your therapeutic journey? I work with clients that are over the age of 18, all orientations/identities, and all relationship structures.
![Photo of Felicia Kanu, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b71622a-3d4b-4903-850e-47d6a988eb11/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Black queer cis woman. I hold space as a guide and a supporter. I strive to make therapy accessible with clear, direct communication, warm energy, and pre-emptive radically inclusive stance. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Smith College School for Social Work. As a master-level social worker, I am currently pursuing my licensure in the state of Georgia under supervision at Heartwork. At Heartwork Counseling Center, we do not take insurance. We do offer a sliding scale. My fee is $150.
I am a Black queer cis woman. I hold space as a guide and a supporter. I strive to make therapy accessible with clear, direct communication, warm energy, and pre-emptive radically inclusive stance. I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Smith College School for Social Work. As a master-level social worker, I am currently pursuing my licensure in the state of Georgia under supervision at Heartwork. At Heartwork Counseling Center, we do not take insurance. We do offer a sliding scale. My fee is $150.
![Photo of Dominique Harmon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1775a5ee-c57f-4528-a2ba-6680a280037c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dominique Harmon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030 (Online Only)
I offer communal holistic health & wellness gatherings for Black women addressing gender and race-based stress & trauma.
I support my clients in getting to the root cause of distress, unhealthy lifestyle practices, and ineffective patterns of behavior. This often includes addressing chronic and complex trauma and stressors, and identifying core beliefs and societal pressures that have come to influence their behavior and lifestyle choices. With increased awareness, strategies and skills, I support my clients in aligning their actions with their personal passions, desires, and values. I integrate holistic health and wellness strategies, to assist my clients in developing healthy lifestyle practices that support their optimal mental health.
I offer communal holistic health & wellness gatherings for Black women addressing gender and race-based stress & trauma.
I support my clients in getting to the root cause of distress, unhealthy lifestyle practices, and ineffective patterns of behavior. This often includes addressing chronic and complex trauma and stressors, and identifying core beliefs and societal pressures that have come to influence their behavior and lifestyle choices. With increased awareness, strategies and skills, I support my clients in aligning their actions with their personal passions, desires, and values. I integrate holistic health and wellness strategies, to assist my clients in developing healthy lifestyle practices that support their optimal mental health.
![Photo of Ngoneh Bullard - BetterSelf, LLC, LICSW, LCSW, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/461a311a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
BetterSelf, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30031
Waitlist for new clients
As an LCSW, I'm dedicated to helping clients navigate life's stressors, including postpartum periods and common mental health issues. My unique perspective as an African American therapist allows me to specialize in serving Aferican American men and women, particularly men, ensuring meaningful therapeutic connections. Through flexible sessions, we set goals and manage symptoms. I believe in therapy's transformative power and help clients tap into inner strength and personal growth. As a self-pay practice, I guarantee utmost privacy and respect.
As an LCSW, I'm dedicated to helping clients navigate life's stressors, including postpartum periods and common mental health issues. My unique perspective as an African American therapist allows me to specialize in serving Aferican American men and women, particularly men, ensuring meaningful therapeutic connections. Through flexible sessions, we set goals and manage symptoms. I believe in therapy's transformative power and help clients tap into inner strength and personal growth. As a self-pay practice, I guarantee utmost privacy and respect.
![Photo of DaJavon Moore-Adu, CSW0091, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b3b530d-3687-453a-9135-5f3365cda2f9/2/320x400.jpeg)
DaJavon Moore-Adu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW0091
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30033 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the Co-Founder of The Holistic Coalition. Our team of women therapists works together to provide our clients with the tools, support, and resources they need to achieve and maintain optimal wellness. My mission is to guide black women towards emotional wellness, resilience, and self-discovery. With a deep understanding of the unique stressors and experiences faced by black women, I specialize in empowering my clients to overcome stress, anxiety, and depression.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the Co-Founder of The Holistic Coalition. Our team of women therapists works together to provide our clients with the tools, support, and resources they need to achieve and maintain optimal wellness. My mission is to guide black women towards emotional wellness, resilience, and self-discovery. With a deep understanding of the unique stressors and experiences faced by black women, I specialize in empowering my clients to overcome stress, anxiety, and depression.
![Photo of Taivia Thompson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/703ec60b-1a07-49b6-8b7c-07318ad26cf6/2/320x400.jpeg)
I know what it means to be Black in America and the challenges it presents as a minority.
Change can be difficult to handle, but let's do it together. Creating a safe, nonjudgmental free zone is my priority for therapy with clients. My ideal client is motivated for therapy, enthusiastic about the process and receptive to feedback. I enjoy working with young adult African-American females going through transitional phases within their life. Maybe she is finding her place in the world, experiencing challenges that may be unexplained, dealing with emotional/physical abuse by a loved one or caregiver, wanting to get in touch with who she is or finding ways to cope with the difficulties of discrimination and systematic racism
I know what it means to be Black in America and the challenges it presents as a minority.
Change can be difficult to handle, but let's do it together. Creating a safe, nonjudgmental free zone is my priority for therapy with clients. My ideal client is motivated for therapy, enthusiastic about the process and receptive to feedback. I enjoy working with young adult African-American females going through transitional phases within their life. Maybe she is finding her place in the world, experiencing challenges that may be unexplained, dealing with emotional/physical abuse by a loved one or caregiver, wanting to get in touch with who she is or finding ways to cope with the difficulties of discrimination and systematic racism
![Photo of Dr. Camille Belle, PhD, PsyPact, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf92a3c0-3237-46c1-b601-05d0c444699f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Camille Belle
Psychologist, PhD, PsyPact
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30031 (Online Only)
You don't have to keep wearing that mask or be fear being seen as an "angry Black woman" with me.
Does it feel like no one knows what you are really going through inside, because on the outside everything is all put together? Does it feel like you have to perform or wear a mask to make it through the day, because everyone sees you as strong and successful already? Maybe you’ve spent so much of your life working towards a goal (a degree, a career, a relationship) but now that you’re here it still feels like something is missing. You're starting to question some of the things you were taught about life and yourself from a young age, and you've grown tired of trying to live up to expectations that you never set for yourself.
You don't have to keep wearing that mask or be fear being seen as an "angry Black woman" with me.
Does it feel like no one knows what you are really going through inside, because on the outside everything is all put together? Does it feel like you have to perform or wear a mask to make it through the day, because everyone sees you as strong and successful already? Maybe you’ve spent so much of your life working towards a goal (a degree, a career, a relationship) but now that you’re here it still feels like something is missing. You're starting to question some of the things you were taught about life and yourself from a young age, and you've grown tired of trying to live up to expectations that you never set for yourself.
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![Photo of Samuel Cotton, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aaff7269-306b-44a2-a571-b5740eb9f321/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samuel Cotton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30033 (Online Only)
Clients come to me looking for a Black therapist because therapy is a place you should feel comfortable, safe, and understood.
Do you find yourself feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed no matter what you do? You may be fed up with how anxiety is affecting your relationships, your peace of mind, and your physical health. You may not remember the last time you felt like yourself. One thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to feel calmer and more grounded. You're ready to have better, more emotionally connected relationships. Most of all, you're ready to feel like yourself again.
Clients come to me looking for a Black therapist because therapy is a place you should feel comfortable, safe, and understood.
Do you find yourself feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed no matter what you do? You may be fed up with how anxiety is affecting your relationships, your peace of mind, and your physical health. You may not remember the last time you felt like yourself. One thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to feel calmer and more grounded. You're ready to have better, more emotionally connected relationships. Most of all, you're ready to feel like yourself again.
![Photo of Shaketa Robinson-Bruce - Open Arms Counseling Center, LLC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3de9832-f18b-4314-92fc-1c42419323ea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Open Arms Counseling Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
As a Black woman, I lean on multicultural feminist theory and Black Feminist Thought as theoretical lenses to work with clients in therapy and as a scholar/researcher.
At Open Arms we work with individuals who are struggling to manage the stress and burdens of this world. For people of color it is not easy operating in a male dominated, Euro centric society. Fortunately, you don't have to do it alone. We are here to help you learn tools that alleviate your stress, overcome past trauma, or achieve whatever goals you desire.
As a Black woman, I lean on multicultural feminist theory and Black Feminist Thought as theoretical lenses to work with clients in therapy and as a scholar/researcher.
At Open Arms we work with individuals who are struggling to manage the stress and burdens of this world. For people of color it is not easy operating in a male dominated, Euro centric society. Fortunately, you don't have to do it alone. We are here to help you learn tools that alleviate your stress, overcome past trauma, or achieve whatever goals you desire.
![Photo of Ayana Lewis Lcsw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2b93a49-4865-4d30-861d-7b80cfb59f40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ayana Lewis Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30032 (Online Only)
Hi there! I’m Ayana. I’m a Christian therapist specializing in helping Black and African-American women struggling with Anxiety and Depression. There are times when we find ourselves on auto-pilot, in a state of being that is mundane, overwhelming, and monotonous. If you are feeling stuck and want more out of life, I'm here to assist with setting goals, overcoming limited beliefs, and developing appropriate coping skills that will propel you forward in life.
Hi there! I’m Ayana. I’m a Christian therapist specializing in helping Black and African-American women struggling with Anxiety and Depression. There are times when we find ourselves on auto-pilot, in a state of being that is mundane, overwhelming, and monotonous. If you are feeling stuck and want more out of life, I'm here to assist with setting goals, overcoming limited beliefs, and developing appropriate coping skills that will propel you forward in life.
![Photo of Dr. Tashika L Holloway, LPC, EdD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/102c152c-0388-4eb7-8765-b99654de37ec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tashika L Holloway
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030 (Online Only)
I help Black women & women of color heal from how past trauma has affected your current relationships with yourself & others: Attachment Trauma in childhood; Adjustment to Motherhood & Maternal Mental Health; Codependence & Perfectionism. Women are the backbone of our families, workplaces, and communities, but what happens when you can no longer keep up? Do you have success in most areas of life, but make the same mistakes in relationships? Trying to be perfect & please everyone, but your own needs are unmet? My passion is helping you begin the journey of healing from past trauma and move toward Wholeness and Wellness your life.
I help Black women & women of color heal from how past trauma has affected your current relationships with yourself & others: Attachment Trauma in childhood; Adjustment to Motherhood & Maternal Mental Health; Codependence & Perfectionism. Women are the backbone of our families, workplaces, and communities, but what happens when you can no longer keep up? Do you have success in most areas of life, but make the same mistakes in relationships? Trying to be perfect & please everyone, but your own needs are unmet? My passion is helping you begin the journey of healing from past trauma and move toward Wholeness and Wellness your life.
![Photo of Tracy Gantlin-Monroy, MA, MDiv, LPC, BSP, SE, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d485c48-7534-45d4-b5f2-d1d6ef7cda07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tracy Gantlin-Monroy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, LPC, BSP, SE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30033 (Online Only)
As the 1st Black female Brainspotting trainer in the world, I seek to humanize mental health struggles, representation and champion therapy to everyone as the path to normalizing/living a healthy, active, fulfilling life. Freedom, self-confidence, courage, a healthy sense of self; what's stopping you? Barriers to acceptance exist, often buried deep within the layers of experience, trauma, divorce, unmet needs, unhealed hurts, depression, anxiety, less than desired self esteem, family systems, unhealthy relationships, anger, feelings of being misunderstood, symptoms of diagnosis, poor communication skills and the list goes on.
As the 1st Black female Brainspotting trainer in the world, I seek to humanize mental health struggles, representation and champion therapy to everyone as the path to normalizing/living a healthy, active, fulfilling life. Freedom, self-confidence, courage, a healthy sense of self; what's stopping you? Barriers to acceptance exist, often buried deep within the layers of experience, trauma, divorce, unmet needs, unhealed hurts, depression, anxiety, less than desired self esteem, family systems, unhealthy relationships, anger, feelings of being misunderstood, symptoms of diagnosis, poor communication skills and the list goes on.
![Photo of De'Leon Martin, MS, LAPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2fd4d99f-10fa-4cbc-8d81-74a09e24c6ca/2/320x400.jpeg)
“Helping one person might not change the world, but it could change the world for one person.” Does it look like you have it all together on the outside but on the inside your world is slowly falling apart? Are you making the same mistakes in relationships but unable to do something different? Constantly attempting perfectionism but your own needs are often unmet. Feeling stuck and lacking the confidence needed to make the right decisions to change? Struggling between choosing the life you have and the one you want?
“Helping one person might not change the world, but it could change the world for one person.” Does it look like you have it all together on the outside but on the inside your world is slowly falling apart? Are you making the same mistakes in relationships but unable to do something different? Constantly attempting perfectionism but your own needs are often unmet. Feeling stuck and lacking the confidence needed to make the right decisions to change? Struggling between choosing the life you have and the one you want?
![Photo of Chris Dorsey, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10fe64ca-2552-4f19-a6c3-c142e0d9bd33/3/320x400.jpeg)
Chris Dorsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Feeling overwhelmed and frustrated when outcomes do not meet your expectations? Burdened with strong emotions that continually cause reactivity and negative consequences? Experiencing pain and suffering from a recent loss of a loved one, job, relationship or even a pet? These symptoms are difficult to treat on your own. They need openness and validation from a professional. A place to calm the nervous system and feel safe to vulnerably explore the issues at-hand. I take great pride in providing that environment. Someone did that for me and it transformed my life. It would be a privilege to do the same for you.
Feeling overwhelmed and frustrated when outcomes do not meet your expectations? Burdened with strong emotions that continually cause reactivity and negative consequences? Experiencing pain and suffering from a recent loss of a loved one, job, relationship or even a pet? These symptoms are difficult to treat on your own. They need openness and validation from a professional. A place to calm the nervous system and feel safe to vulnerably explore the issues at-hand. I take great pride in providing that environment. Someone did that for me and it transformed my life. It would be a privilege to do the same for you.
![Photo of Debra Dantzler, PhD, LPC, MAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0261fd6-84df-48cf-b3ce-35895e8a319c/1/320x400.png)
Debra Dantzler
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MAC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30033
Ambivalence towards therapy is entirely natural, particularly for those who are not accustomed to seeking support. Recognizing the need for help can feel daunting, as it might seem to challenge the roles you've long upheld—perhaps as the family's hero, the fixer, or the helper. There might be a fear that your vulnerabilities will become apparent in reaching out, questioning the identity you've consistently portrayed. However, it is crucial to embrace a pivotal truth: showing vulnerability is not a sign of weakness, but a profound act of bravery. Asking for help is a courageous step. Therapy is transformative self-discovery.
Ambivalence towards therapy is entirely natural, particularly for those who are not accustomed to seeking support. Recognizing the need for help can feel daunting, as it might seem to challenge the roles you've long upheld—perhaps as the family's hero, the fixer, or the helper. There might be a fear that your vulnerabilities will become apparent in reaching out, questioning the identity you've consistently portrayed. However, it is crucial to embrace a pivotal truth: showing vulnerability is not a sign of weakness, but a profound act of bravery. Asking for help is a courageous step. Therapy is transformative self-discovery.
![Photo of Robyn Kelly, LISW-S, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/564a9b56-2b23-4710-824a-53812c21a908/1/320x400.jpeg)
I whole-heartedly believe that the answers we are looking for are deep within. I believe we sometimes struggle to figure things out/follow through with our decision to change due to both internal/external barriers. My role as a therapist is to support others by listening and helping them problem-solve in an empathetic and non-judgmental manner. We will work collaboratively to identify/utilize effective skills to break through the barriers in order to bring about lasting change. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating.
I whole-heartedly believe that the answers we are looking for are deep within. I believe we sometimes struggle to figure things out/follow through with our decision to change due to both internal/external barriers. My role as a therapist is to support others by listening and helping them problem-solve in an empathetic and non-judgmental manner. We will work collaboratively to identify/utilize effective skills to break through the barriers in order to bring about lasting change. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating.
See more therapy options for Decatur
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Decatur
- Atlanta
- Avondale Estates
- Brookhaven
- Chamblee
- Doraville
- Ellenwood
- Lithonia
- Sandy Springs
- Scottdale
- Stone Mountain
- Stonecrest
- Tucker
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.