Black and African American Therapists in Roswell, GA
![Photo of Dr. Dwayne White, PhD, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7e56513-a621-4f93-9427-2873acecac97/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dwayne White
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30076 (Online Only)
While I provide counseling services to a wide range of individuals presenting with various concerns, including stress management, grief, anxiety, depression, and identity concerns, I specifically specialize in working with Black, Indigenous, People of Color and LGBTQ+ individuals within this community.
Seeking support for your emotional well-being in a compassionate and accepting environment? Tired of living under the weight of others' expectations? Partner with me to reclaim your power and take back your life. Life is an exhilarating roller coaster, full of highs, lows, and unexpected twists. I see myself as a passenger sitting next to you on this ride, working with you on how to ride this roller coaster in whatever way that best fits your individual needs and concerns. Remember, you're not alone on this roller coaster of life. Let's collaborate to ensure you savor every moment of the ride.
While I provide counseling services to a wide range of individuals presenting with various concerns, including stress management, grief, anxiety, depression, and identity concerns, I specifically specialize in working with Black, Indigenous, People of Color and LGBTQ+ individuals within this community.
Seeking support for your emotional well-being in a compassionate and accepting environment? Tired of living under the weight of others' expectations? Partner with me to reclaim your power and take back your life. Life is an exhilarating roller coaster, full of highs, lows, and unexpected twists. I see myself as a passenger sitting next to you on this ride, working with you on how to ride this roller coaster in whatever way that best fits your individual needs and concerns. Remember, you're not alone on this roller coaster of life. Let's collaborate to ensure you savor every moment of the ride.
![Photo of Margot Howard, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47ececdb-bf19-4574-8943-1533e17df367/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am deeply passionate about supporting the BIPOC (Black Indigenous, People of Color) community.
I am a compassionate and dedicated person with a passion for helping people navigate life’s challenges and discover the path to positive emotions and self-love. I love working with individuals, guiding them on a journey to work through anxiety and self-doubt when setting boundaries, difficulties managing anger and heavy emotions during conflict, shutting down and avoiding difficult conversations and struggles to believe positive things about themselves. I want to provide a supportive and empathetic environment where clients can explore their stories and build resilience. I want you to be able to show up as your most authentic self.
I am deeply passionate about supporting the BIPOC (Black Indigenous, People of Color) community.
I am a compassionate and dedicated person with a passion for helping people navigate life’s challenges and discover the path to positive emotions and self-love. I love working with individuals, guiding them on a journey to work through anxiety and self-doubt when setting boundaries, difficulties managing anger and heavy emotions during conflict, shutting down and avoiding difficult conversations and struggles to believe positive things about themselves. I want to provide a supportive and empathetic environment where clients can explore their stories and build resilience. I want you to be able to show up as your most authentic self.
![Photo of Kierra L Foster - TSF Therapy, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53e7e4a7-5cb6-4233-be6f-1f17ee55f2b1/2/320x400.png)
TSF Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30076 (Online Only)
As a queer black woman I sought the space that I have created for you.
We all have a story and a journey filled with highs and lows. Our paths often lead us to challenge ourselves in ways we never imagined. One thought can turn into ruminating doubt, negative self-talk, or trigger past trauma. It is during those times when we deserve a safe space to unpack before continuing on our life's calling. Accept our invitation to heal in the convenience of your own home. We created a virtual healing space for women to grow and heal courageously. Do not allow emotional and subconscious barriers to interfere with living a fulfilling life.
As a queer black woman I sought the space that I have created for you.
We all have a story and a journey filled with highs and lows. Our paths often lead us to challenge ourselves in ways we never imagined. One thought can turn into ruminating doubt, negative self-talk, or trigger past trauma. It is during those times when we deserve a safe space to unpack before continuing on our life's calling. Accept our invitation to heal in the convenience of your own home. We created a virtual healing space for women to grow and heal courageously. Do not allow emotional and subconscious barriers to interfere with living a fulfilling life.
![Photo of Donte M Randall - Randall & Randall Recovery Consultants, LLc, CADCII, MATS, CAMS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf42c678-5cab-40fc-b52a-9ecefac70092/1/320x400.jpeg)
Randall & Randall Recovery Consultants, LLc
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADCII, MATS, CAMS
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30076
You have experienced something that has definitely caught your attention. You have found yourself in a sink or swim situation. Do you have a problem? Maybe, but for now you just want to find a way out. Once you do, maybe you will discover there is work to do. Maybe, there is something missing? How can one fill this void? How does one rid themselves of experiences they don't take the time to confront? Lets start the healing process.
You have experienced something that has definitely caught your attention. You have found yourself in a sink or swim situation. Do you have a problem? Maybe, but for now you just want to find a way out. Once you do, maybe you will discover there is work to do. Maybe, there is something missing? How can one fill this void? How does one rid themselves of experiences they don't take the time to confront? Lets start the healing process.
![Photo of Tammy von Nordheim, LMSW, CAMS, CTAS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53963994-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tammy von Nordheim
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW, CAMS, CTAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30076
Many successful women feel stuck because they have become overwhelmed with too many responsibilities in their lives. After repeated micro-trauma events, you crash & implode. Are you struggling to do your job effectively while trying to manage your own emotions around CoVid19, Racial Unrest, and Personal Issues? Being the strong one for family & friends will leave you without the tools to manage. You will become emotionally fatigued & lost. How many times have you struggled with accepting & loving yourself? I help you discover what mental & emotional road blocks prevent you from finding your "happy" & we navigate those challenges.
Many successful women feel stuck because they have become overwhelmed with too many responsibilities in their lives. After repeated micro-trauma events, you crash & implode. Are you struggling to do your job effectively while trying to manage your own emotions around CoVid19, Racial Unrest, and Personal Issues? Being the strong one for family & friends will leave you without the tools to manage. You will become emotionally fatigued & lost. How many times have you struggled with accepting & loving yourself? I help you discover what mental & emotional road blocks prevent you from finding your "happy" & we navigate those challenges.
![Photo of Jonathan Del Valle, LMSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b886e533-4657-4dbd-b616-f8a32ffb5aa0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan Del Valle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30076
I am deeply committed to creating a space where you feel seen, heard and understood. With over 13 years of experience in social work, I bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to my practice while serving individuals in several marginalized communities including but not limited to LGBTQIA+, LatinX & BIPOC, trauma, neuro-divergent, addiction, and the elderly. We each have our own stories, and it is okay to seek guidance when attempting to navigate and understand that self-directed narrative. I too received guidance when I needed it the most, and it granted me a deeper insight into myself. I hope to do the same for you.
I am deeply committed to creating a space where you feel seen, heard and understood. With over 13 years of experience in social work, I bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to my practice while serving individuals in several marginalized communities including but not limited to LGBTQIA+, LatinX & BIPOC, trauma, neuro-divergent, addiction, and the elderly. We each have our own stories, and it is okay to seek guidance when attempting to navigate and understand that self-directed narrative. I too received guidance when I needed it the most, and it granted me a deeper insight into myself. I hope to do the same for you.
![Photo of Ashley Johnson, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6549d1a8-9ec8-454e-95c1-8c8d7d157827/1/320x400.jpeg)
You are on the search for something...Whether it is clarity, peace, happiness, support, or the freedom to finally explore who YOU truly are. We often may feel the pressure to appear we have it all together when deep inside we are fighting a battle within. This journey that you are on, no longer has to be walked alone. I commend you for acknowledging your pain and seeking out ways to help yourself. I provide individual therapy to young adults and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, life transitions, and struggles within interpersonal relationships. I also provide expressive arts grief groups see below:
You are on the search for something...Whether it is clarity, peace, happiness, support, or the freedom to finally explore who YOU truly are. We often may feel the pressure to appear we have it all together when deep inside we are fighting a battle within. This journey that you are on, no longer has to be walked alone. I commend you for acknowledging your pain and seeking out ways to help yourself. I provide individual therapy to young adults and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, life transitions, and struggles within interpersonal relationships. I also provide expressive arts grief groups see below:
![Photo of Stephanie B. Smith, MS, LPC, CCTP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db05e13b-91f2-4626-88e4-45fb95b06bad/2/320x400.png)
Stephanie B. Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30075
My ideal client would be an adolescent who has endured some type of trauma or abuse. Their needs would include building resiliency and expanding their coping skills "toolbox." Their goal would ultimately be to find hope and healing, despite their adversities. They would want to be an active participant in their treatment, so that therapy could be as beneficial as possible. Having said that, any client who feels that they could benefit from my counseling services is more than welcome into my office!
My ideal client would be an adolescent who has endured some type of trauma or abuse. Their needs would include building resiliency and expanding their coping skills "toolbox." Their goal would ultimately be to find hope and healing, despite their adversities. They would want to be an active participant in their treatment, so that therapy could be as beneficial as possible. Having said that, any client who feels that they could benefit from my counseling services is more than welcome into my office!
![Photo of Charles A 'skeet' Stokes, MS, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49359a87-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Charles A 'skeet' Stokes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30076
EXPERIENCE MATTERS! I am the founder of Roswell Therapy Group and innovator of Created for Connection Georgia (EFT). As a LMFT I am trained intergrative systemically and certifying as an AAMFT Supervisor. I also am a LPC and a CPCS. I have 30 years of experience and skilled at working with complex relationships mainly with an EFT format. In addition I am trained in Attachment Focused EMDR having worked with various forms of trauma. I look forward to being of service with your relational needs as well as assistancing in managing anxiety, depression, stress or anger.
EXPERIENCE MATTERS! I am the founder of Roswell Therapy Group and innovator of Created for Connection Georgia (EFT). As a LMFT I am trained intergrative systemically and certifying as an AAMFT Supervisor. I also am a LPC and a CPCS. I have 30 years of experience and skilled at working with complex relationships mainly with an EFT format. In addition I am trained in Attachment Focused EMDR having worked with various forms of trauma. I look forward to being of service with your relational needs as well as assistancing in managing anxiety, depression, stress or anger.
![Photo of Brytani Burch, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd49956e-76ba-4b0e-a439-1a1c986c0ce8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brytani Burch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30075 (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m Brytani Burch a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) specializing in treating emotional distress, anxiety, pregnancy anxiety, pregnancy depression, postpartum depression, career difficulties, chronic or terminal illness therapy, grief and loss, and depression. I founded PeaceCare Counseling to meet you where you are and help you find a way of living that feels more aligned with your goals and who you are.
Welcome! I’m Brytani Burch a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) specializing in treating emotional distress, anxiety, pregnancy anxiety, pregnancy depression, postpartum depression, career difficulties, chronic or terminal illness therapy, grief and loss, and depression. I founded PeaceCare Counseling to meet you where you are and help you find a way of living that feels more aligned with your goals and who you are.
![Photo of Affiniti Harris-Mordecai - Affinity for Bliss, LLC, MEd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d63ea7c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Affinity for Bliss, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30075
"HEALING, TRANSFORMATION and ultimately MANIFESTATION!!!" is my motto. I want every individual I work with to define their power in the world by overcoming and expanding from any barriers to PERSONAL GROWTH! I work with adults on parenting issues, domestic violence, past trauma, anxiety, post-traumatic stress and depression. I work with adolescents in areas of trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety, anger issues, depression, LGBTQ challenges, grief/bereavement, and abuse. I work with couples/families to remove any ongoing barriers and assist with fostering ongoing healthy communication with all members of the family.
"HEALING, TRANSFORMATION and ultimately MANIFESTATION!!!" is my motto. I want every individual I work with to define their power in the world by overcoming and expanding from any barriers to PERSONAL GROWTH! I work with adults on parenting issues, domestic violence, past trauma, anxiety, post-traumatic stress and depression. I work with adolescents in areas of trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety, anger issues, depression, LGBTQ challenges, grief/bereavement, and abuse. I work with couples/families to remove any ongoing barriers and assist with fostering ongoing healthy communication with all members of the family.
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![Photo of Josephanie V Smith, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/120f75fa-bf29-4efb-8f72-e42aaeb4f96c/3/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal clients are millennial individuals who find themselves struggling to get what they need out of relationships with others. Whether that relationship is with a parent, peer or significant other, their goals are to set new boundaries, develop healthier habits and learn effective communication and conflict resolution skills in order to verbalize and ultimately have their needs met within the relationship. My ideal clients are also individuals/couples struggling with issues surrounding sexuality. I am pleased to work with cisgender and LGBTQ+ identifying, and those identifying with or looking to explore alt relationship styles.
My ideal clients are millennial individuals who find themselves struggling to get what they need out of relationships with others. Whether that relationship is with a parent, peer or significant other, their goals are to set new boundaries, develop healthier habits and learn effective communication and conflict resolution skills in order to verbalize and ultimately have their needs met within the relationship. My ideal clients are also individuals/couples struggling with issues surrounding sexuality. I am pleased to work with cisgender and LGBTQ+ identifying, and those identifying with or looking to explore alt relationship styles.
![Photo of Steven D Brand - Steven Brand Psychotherapist, MSW/MPH, LCSW, ACSW, PC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b7a4ef6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Steven Brand Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW/MPH, LCSW, ACSW, PC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30075
I connect well with my clients by being personable and professional with empathy. My clients say, "Steve is quick to listen, process and quick to problem-solve". For over 31 years I have connected with my clients so they can heal, stretch and grow. Your goals are my goals. Choosing the right therapist is a decision that can lead to a deeper understanding, personal peace and serenity. Clients come to me because they have exhausted their mental energy finding a solution that works. I will give you an objective professional perspective and empower you to change. My promise is that I will give you my best to help you be your best.
I connect well with my clients by being personable and professional with empathy. My clients say, "Steve is quick to listen, process and quick to problem-solve". For over 31 years I have connected with my clients so they can heal, stretch and grow. Your goals are my goals. Choosing the right therapist is a decision that can lead to a deeper understanding, personal peace and serenity. Clients come to me because they have exhausted their mental energy finding a solution that works. I will give you an objective professional perspective and empower you to change. My promise is that I will give you my best to help you be your best.
![Photo of Dr. B. Nilaja Green, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80392f12-71d7-4322-80a1-52c7e4a47765/2/320x400.jpeg)
Trauma and pain from past and present experiences can halt your life's progress, trapping you in recurring patterns of thought, emotion, and behavior that hinder your aspirations. At Standpoint Wellness, we specialize in guiding individuals through these challenges with a unique blend of integrative health and psychotherapeutic approaches. Our practice is dedicated to addressing a range of traumas, (including intergenerational, child and adult trauma, combat experiences, and identity trauma).We offer comprehensive support for managing depression, anxiety, and navigating grief.
Trauma and pain from past and present experiences can halt your life's progress, trapping you in recurring patterns of thought, emotion, and behavior that hinder your aspirations. At Standpoint Wellness, we specialize in guiding individuals through these challenges with a unique blend of integrative health and psychotherapeutic approaches. Our practice is dedicated to addressing a range of traumas, (including intergenerational, child and adult trauma, combat experiences, and identity trauma).We offer comprehensive support for managing depression, anxiety, and navigating grief.
![Photo of Tameka Dean, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8bb5dbbc-1ef8-4fec-8b5f-0272b10b41c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have 17+ years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including inpatient, residential, partial care, outpatient, and in-home. It is my belief that you have everything you need within you to live your best life and be your best self, however, unhealed wounds can slow that timeline of seeing that manifest. It is my goal to guide, educate, support, and empower my clients on their way to healing. I find great joy when my clients have that light bulb moment when they realize they in fact can be the captain of their healing/journey.
I have 17+ years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including inpatient, residential, partial care, outpatient, and in-home. It is my belief that you have everything you need within you to live your best life and be your best self, however, unhealed wounds can slow that timeline of seeing that manifest. It is my goal to guide, educate, support, and empower my clients on their way to healing. I find great joy when my clients have that light bulb moment when they realize they in fact can be the captain of their healing/journey.
![Photo of Joyelle Hines, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ca2e8b0-0c3d-4841-a99b-272759d77060/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, my name is Joyelle Hines. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been a therapist for over ten years. My therapy style is compassionate but direct and honest. I am experienced with individuals experiencing Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, and HIV/AIDS; I am also experienced in Addictions, Career challenges, Depression, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, and bipolar disorder. I am also efficient with knowledgeable experience of the working poor. I have grown and worked with the application process in applying social security disabilities to a wide range of other community services.
Hi, my name is Joyelle Hines. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been a therapist for over ten years. My therapy style is compassionate but direct and honest. I am experienced with individuals experiencing Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, and HIV/AIDS; I am also experienced in Addictions, Career challenges, Depression, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue, and bipolar disorder. I am also efficient with knowledgeable experience of the working poor. I have grown and worked with the application process in applying social security disabilities to a wide range of other community services.
![Photo of Nadine Hill - ClearlyCounseling in Georgia, LPC, NCC, ACS, CCH, CSC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ed85b2c-b132-4d4d-9e67-201c88bb46a2/2/320x400.jpeg)
ClearlyCounseling in Georgia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ACS, CCH, CSC
Verified Verified
Roswell, GA 30076
You are about to make history by improving your quality of life and I am humbled and honored to facilitate your personal evolution. My practice is a no judgement zone providing professional, respectful and advanced psychotherapy. In a safe and discreet private practice setting, I provide extensive therapeutic care to adult women and men experiencing depression, anxiety, mood and interpersonal issues, including but not limited to; Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, PTSD, Social Phobia, Personality Disorder, ADHD, Adjustment Disorder, Relationship Issues, Codependency, Narcissistic abuse, and Everyday Stress.
You are about to make history by improving your quality of life and I am humbled and honored to facilitate your personal evolution. My practice is a no judgement zone providing professional, respectful and advanced psychotherapy. In a safe and discreet private practice setting, I provide extensive therapeutic care to adult women and men experiencing depression, anxiety, mood and interpersonal issues, including but not limited to; Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, PTSD, Social Phobia, Personality Disorder, ADHD, Adjustment Disorder, Relationship Issues, Codependency, Narcissistic abuse, and Everyday Stress.
![Photo of Josefina Bates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/460d33f9-6bf7-4a3b-9641-aa85bb55ed81/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, eating and body image issues, or multicultural concerns? Would you like to live more richly and mindfully? We'll work together to find solutions to the challenges you are facing.
Are you experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, eating and body image issues, or multicultural concerns? Would you like to live more richly and mindfully? We'll work together to find solutions to the challenges you are facing.
![Photo of Eleecia Myers, MA, LAPC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7098c41-a22d-4b7a-8c06-9a9571a99c22/2/320x400.jpeg)
Everyone people express their feelings in a plethora of different ways. Counseling is great to help kids better organize their thoughts and feelings in a productive way for the child and family. My experience includes years of service with a highly recognized infant mental health psychiatric clinic as well as counseling children and families with reunification, stabilization, and adoption.
Everyone people express their feelings in a plethora of different ways. Counseling is great to help kids better organize their thoughts and feelings in a productive way for the child and family. My experience includes years of service with a highly recognized infant mental health psychiatric clinic as well as counseling children and families with reunification, stabilization, and adoption.
![Photo of Ratima Guest-Smith, LPC, CPCS, PPS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fa96f4c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ratima Guest-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, PPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roswell, GA 30075
Hi, if you've been examining your marriage, relationships, and career and at times feel unfulfilled and emotionally empty, and if your looking for a direct, genuine, open-minded therapist who can help you on your path of healing, growth, and transformation, then I'm a fit. As a sought-after therapist and couples expert, I help struggling couples reestablish intimacy and connection in their marriages, as well as empower and inspire individuals to overcome self-defeating behaviors & negative self-talk. Providing exceptional client care, distinctively effective treatment, and having satisfied clients brings me joy.
Hi, if you've been examining your marriage, relationships, and career and at times feel unfulfilled and emotionally empty, and if your looking for a direct, genuine, open-minded therapist who can help you on your path of healing, growth, and transformation, then I'm a fit. As a sought-after therapist and couples expert, I help struggling couples reestablish intimacy and connection in their marriages, as well as empower and inspire individuals to overcome self-defeating behaviors & negative self-talk. Providing exceptional client care, distinctively effective treatment, and having satisfied clients brings me joy.
See more therapy options for Roswell
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Roswell
- Alpharetta
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- Doraville
- Duluth
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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.