Black and African American Therapists in Chicago, IL
As a Black woman, I prioritize cultural humility, anti-racism, and gender affirmation in my practice, highlighting how systemic inequalities affect our paths to wellness.
I am passionate about working with teens, adults, couples, and families. I aim to create a collaborative, empowering space that fosters self-discovery and vulnerability. I believe in tailoring treatment to your unique needs using evidence-based practices rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. With transparency and empathy, I hope our therapeutic relationship is a vehicle for healing that centers community and emphasizes your strengths.
As a Black woman, I prioritize cultural humility, anti-racism, and gender affirmation in my practice, highlighting how systemic inequalities affect our paths to wellness.
I am passionate about working with teens, adults, couples, and families. I aim to create a collaborative, empowering space that fosters self-discovery and vulnerability. I believe in tailoring treatment to your unique needs using evidence-based practices rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. With transparency and empathy, I hope our therapeutic relationship is a vehicle for healing that centers community and emphasizes your strengths.
Taylor Melton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604 (Online Only)
Navigating work, family, health, and relationships is a lot to handle and then add racial and gender issues, that can be too much! Come to therapy with a black therapist that understands you.
Tired of being tired? I get that. Always having to be strong can be exhausting. Overwhelmed, excessive worry, lack of interest, irritability, and procrastination are just a few things I hear from Black women in therapy. Together in therapy we can address those feelings and work towards your goals and improved mental health.
Navigating work, family, health, and relationships is a lot to handle and then add racial and gender issues, that can be too much! Come to therapy with a black therapist that understands you.
Tired of being tired? I get that. Always having to be strong can be exhausting. Overwhelmed, excessive worry, lack of interest, irritability, and procrastination are just a few things I hear from Black women in therapy. Together in therapy we can address those feelings and work towards your goals and improved mental health.
Alexis M. Westbrook
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As an African American psychologist specializing in trauma, I often work with individuals who have faced racial discrimination, systemic oppression, community violence, and intergenerational trauma. Many may experience anxiety, depression, hypervigilance, and disconnection, struggling with identity, self-worth, and trust. In therapy, one may seek a culturally sensitive environment to process their trauma, understanding it within the context of their racial and cultural identity. My clients, often from marginalized communities, aim to explore their trauma, build resilience, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
As an African American psychologist specializing in trauma, I often work with individuals who have faced racial discrimination, systemic oppression, community violence, and intergenerational trauma. Many may experience anxiety, depression, hypervigilance, and disconnection, struggling with identity, self-worth, and trust. In therapy, one may seek a culturally sensitive environment to process their trauma, understanding it within the context of their racial and cultural identity. My clients, often from marginalized communities, aim to explore their trauma, build resilience, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Rosondunnii Marshall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60653 (Online Only)
My work within the Black community and with individuals of color is driven by a deep respect for cultural diversity and a commitment to addressing systemic inequalities.
My ideal client is someone who is willing to embrace change for their own betterment—a person who is open to exploring new ways of thinking and acting; and committed or at least curious about their personal growth journey. I believe in the power of collaboration and mutual respect in the therapeutic process, where we work together to uncover strengths and strategies that empower you to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience. I bring a nuanced understanding of developmental stages and the unique challenges individuals, couples, young people, and families face.
My work within the Black community and with individuals of color is driven by a deep respect for cultural diversity and a commitment to addressing systemic inequalities.
My ideal client is someone who is willing to embrace change for their own betterment—a person who is open to exploring new ways of thinking and acting; and committed or at least curious about their personal growth journey. I believe in the power of collaboration and mutual respect in the therapeutic process, where we work together to uncover strengths and strategies that empower you to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience. I bring a nuanced understanding of developmental stages and the unique challenges individuals, couples, young people, and families face.
I am a caring and compassionate therapist with experience working with Black and Brown youth, young adults, middle aged adults and seniors. I am passionate about social justice and work to continue building my own cultural responsiveness. I consider my practice trauma informed in order to elevate the growth, resiliency, and healing of my clients. I treat clients who are seeking to manage their suffering, and may struggle with depression, anxiety, stress management, searching for identity and meaning, relationship issues, low self-concept, sexual/physical and emotional abuse, neglect, traumatic events and racial stress/trauma.
I am a caring and compassionate therapist with experience working with Black and Brown youth, young adults, middle aged adults and seniors. I am passionate about social justice and work to continue building my own cultural responsiveness. I consider my practice trauma informed in order to elevate the growth, resiliency, and healing of my clients. I treat clients who are seeking to manage their suffering, and may struggle with depression, anxiety, stress management, searching for identity and meaning, relationship issues, low self-concept, sexual/physical and emotional abuse, neglect, traumatic events and racial stress/trauma.
Collective Insight
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP, MS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
I identify as a cisgender Black gay male.
I am passionate about using evidence-based practices to help all clients achieve their goals and improve their mental health. I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing difficulty with gender identity, sexuality/sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, career transitions, healthy living, work-life balance, stress management, and general mental health concerns (e.g., depression, anxiety, mood instability, etc.). I believe that it is vital for people to trust the therapeutic space and know that it is safe, welcoming, and free of judgment. I work with clients to help them identify goals of treatment that are align
I identify as a cisgender Black gay male.
I am passionate about using evidence-based practices to help all clients achieve their goals and improve their mental health. I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing difficulty with gender identity, sexuality/sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, career transitions, healthy living, work-life balance, stress management, and general mental health concerns (e.g., depression, anxiety, mood instability, etc.). I believe that it is vital for people to trust the therapeutic space and know that it is safe, welcoming, and free of judgment. I work with clients to help them identify goals of treatment that are align
Marla Seals
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60645 (Online Only)
While I treat individuals from all socioeconomic, racial and cultural backgrounds, I have dedicated my career to providing quality therapeutic services to marginalized communities, including black single-mothers, justice-involved individuals and those that struggle with navigating the daily challenges faced by living in an urban environment.
I'm delighted that you have encountered my profile and taken an active, and courageous step in your healing journey. I bring a down-to-earth, approachable presence to therapy and place the utmost importance on fostering a warm and friendly, yet professional relationship with you. Developing a strong therapeutic alliance is the foundation that will support you as we explore pathways toward your healing, develop adaptive and functional coping skills, improve your emotional regulation, and help you experience a more fulfilling life, rather than just exist.
While I treat individuals from all socioeconomic, racial and cultural backgrounds, I have dedicated my career to providing quality therapeutic services to marginalized communities, including black single-mothers, justice-involved individuals and those that struggle with navigating the daily challenges faced by living in an urban environment.
I'm delighted that you have encountered my profile and taken an active, and courageous step in your healing journey. I bring a down-to-earth, approachable presence to therapy and place the utmost importance on fostering a warm and friendly, yet professional relationship with you. Developing a strong therapeutic alliance is the foundation that will support you as we explore pathways toward your healing, develop adaptive and functional coping skills, improve your emotional regulation, and help you experience a more fulfilling life, rather than just exist.
I deliver care and treatment primarily to Black, queer, and BIPOC individuals seeking to improve their mental health and life experience. I have extensive experience in working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, sexuality, racial impacts, stress management, and neurodiversity. As a black queer individual, I recognize how difficult the experience can be to find a culturally competent therapist that can understand the nuances of intersectionality and develop strategies to address such issues in a personalized manner. I want to meet my client where they are and assist them in this journey forward.
I deliver care and treatment primarily to Black, queer, and BIPOC individuals seeking to improve their mental health and life experience. I have extensive experience in working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, sexuality, racial impacts, stress management, and neurodiversity. As a black queer individual, I recognize how difficult the experience can be to find a culturally competent therapist that can understand the nuances of intersectionality and develop strategies to address such issues in a personalized manner. I want to meet my client where they are and assist them in this journey forward.
Cotorey Seals
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618 (Online Only)
Are there parts of your story you wish you could forget? Do you feel like no matter how much you try, you’re never enough? Does your anxiety, shame, and trauma feel crippling? This is a painful place to be, but you don’t have to do this alone. I provide an exploratory space where you can unpack and heal from some of the most difficult parts of your story. As a black, male therapist, I understand how your background and unique context impacts your life. As we explore your story, I’ll help you move from trauma to healing, shame to self-compassion, and anxiety to freedom.
Are there parts of your story you wish you could forget? Do you feel like no matter how much you try, you’re never enough? Does your anxiety, shame, and trauma feel crippling? This is a painful place to be, but you don’t have to do this alone. I provide an exploratory space where you can unpack and heal from some of the most difficult parts of your story. As a black, male therapist, I understand how your background and unique context impacts your life. As we explore your story, I’ll help you move from trauma to healing, shame to self-compassion, and anxiety to freedom.
Finding a therapist can be difficult, but finding a trusted, culturally competent therapist is extremely important. Having a therapist that is the same gender and race as you is not a requirement for therapy, however in my years of experience it has served as a positive vehicle for healing. In a society where there is a history of Black Women being marginalized, therapy provides a path to recognizing our power and the strength that we possess.
Finding a therapist can be difficult, but finding a trusted, culturally competent therapist is extremely important. Having a therapist that is the same gender and race as you is not a requirement for therapy, however in my years of experience it has served as a positive vehicle for healing. In a society where there is a history of Black Women being marginalized, therapy provides a path to recognizing our power and the strength that we possess.
Khiara Mills
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615 (Online Only)
As a black young individual or person of color, finding a safe space for therapy can be quite difficult.
Facing anxiety, stress or life changes? You're not alone. I specialize in empowering teens and adults within the African American, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities to effectively manage anxiety, reduce overthinking and navigate life transitions. With a focus on self-awareness, I'll equip you with tools to understand your emotions, challenge irrational thoughts, and embrace changes with confidence. As a former school therapist, I offer personalized support to nurture your growth. Whether you're an adult seeking clarity or a parent concerned about your teen's behavior, rest assured, I'm here to help you navigate through life's challenges.
As a black young individual or person of color, finding a safe space for therapy can be quite difficult.
Facing anxiety, stress or life changes? You're not alone. I specialize in empowering teens and adults within the African American, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities to effectively manage anxiety, reduce overthinking and navigate life transitions. With a focus on self-awareness, I'll equip you with tools to understand your emotions, challenge irrational thoughts, and embrace changes with confidence. As a former school therapist, I offer personalized support to nurture your growth. Whether you're an adult seeking clarity or a parent concerned about your teen's behavior, rest assured, I'm here to help you navigate through life's challenges.
15 Second Videos
Taylor Melton
Cotorey Seals
Khiara Mills
Payton Willis
Bria Patterson
Marcus Leaks
Celina Huerta
Kamaria Excell
Lynette Collins
Hali Cook
Tiffany Bernard
Moe A Brown
Camille Lester
Portia Elizabeth Adams
Brenda Reavis LCSW
Simone Gillon
Halimo Abdulkarim
Ashley Hunt
Chelsea Hopson
Simeon Washington
T'cia Chatman
Keesha Beasley
Ashley Barba
Gabrielle Wilson
Claude Louis
Alexandra Stewart
Errie Counseling and Therapy Inc
Julleon Garrison
Pamela Larkin
Defined
Thrive Psych Services
Of Vineyards and Canopies Therapy Services
Mariah Peloso Somatic Therapist
Paula J Gonzalez
Tia Cochran
Maia Marie Wheeler
Jasmine Remmer
Advance Potential Psychological Services, LLC
Myah Knight
Evette Addai
Felicia Muhammad
Deanna Gibson
Latifat Cabirou
Erica M. Walker
Tiffani Leila Clay
Rene Stockton
Ariel Chauniece McGrew
Stormy Tovar
Lauren Nicole Cartwright
Michelle Robinson
I am Tony Johnson, a pre-licensed professional with a PhD in Social Work and an MPH in community health interventions. With over 15 years of experience as a social justice leader and mental health advocate, I specialize in serving the LGBTQ and Black and Brown communities. My focus areas include resilience, psychological self-sufficiency, grief, and art therapy, aimed at empowering marginalized groups.
I am Tony Johnson, a pre-licensed professional with a PhD in Social Work and an MPH in community health interventions. With over 15 years of experience as a social justice leader and mental health advocate, I specialize in serving the LGBTQ and Black and Brown communities. My focus areas include resilience, psychological self-sufficiency, grief, and art therapy, aimed at empowering marginalized groups.
Hailing from the vibrant city of Chicago, IL, Talia Stewart brings a decade of experience in education to her role as a Virtual Mental Health Consultant at Quantum. Holding a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Talia has dedicated her career to nurturing the mental well-being of individuals, particularly within the Black and Brown communities.
Hailing from the vibrant city of Chicago, IL, Talia Stewart brings a decade of experience in education to her role as a Virtual Mental Health Consultant at Quantum. Holding a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Talia has dedicated her career to nurturing the mental well-being of individuals, particularly within the Black and Brown communities.
Oftentimes, the most basic need that people have is to feel like they're being heard. I am experienced in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and struggle w/ depression and anxiety symptoms. I have completed extensive research regarding PTSD and depression in African American men and am comfortable working with any population and gender. Clients should come to see me because I work to understand their behavior as individuals in the context of the systems we exist within, whether they be work, school, family, or community.
Oftentimes, the most basic need that people have is to feel like they're being heard. I am experienced in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and struggle w/ depression and anxiety symptoms. I have completed extensive research regarding PTSD and depression in African American men and am comfortable working with any population and gender. Clients should come to see me because I work to understand their behavior as individuals in the context of the systems we exist within, whether they be work, school, family, or community.
We face many challenges and stages in life’s journey and navigating through its different phases can sometimes be a difficult process. I focuse on supporting clients through this difficult process and collaborating with a strong therapeutic relationship. The beauty of therapy is that it will look different for each person and will be tailored to specific needs. I also specialize in facilitating sustainable empowerment and personal growth for BIPOC ( Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community.
We face many challenges and stages in life’s journey and navigating through its different phases can sometimes be a difficult process. I focuse on supporting clients through this difficult process and collaborating with a strong therapeutic relationship. The beauty of therapy is that it will look different for each person and will be tailored to specific needs. I also specialize in facilitating sustainable empowerment and personal growth for BIPOC ( Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community.
Tomika S. Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622 (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, adjustment disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, African-American trauma, Christian Therapy, grief, and ADHD.
This world can be overwhelming from managing day to day stressors to dealings with childhood trauma that is affecting your relationships today...yet you have made it this far! You and I both know it takes an especially resilient person to still stand after the trials and tribulations. If you are looking for a therapist to help identify your power, your strengths and will also assist you in achieving your goals, you may contact me for a consultation to see if my approach can help you on your journey.
I specialize in depression, adjustment disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, African-American trauma, Christian Therapy, grief, and ADHD.
This world can be overwhelming from managing day to day stressors to dealings with childhood trauma that is affecting your relationships today...yet you have made it this far! You and I both know it takes an especially resilient person to still stand after the trials and tribulations. If you are looking for a therapist to help identify your power, your strengths and will also assist you in achieving your goals, you may contact me for a consultation to see if my approach can help you on your journey.
David Triche
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602 (Online Only)
As a Black gay male therapist, I bring a deeply personal understanding of the isolation and challenges faced by individuals with marginalized identities. My own journey and experience with clients have given me deep insights into the struggle of feeling voiceless and the impact of being misunderstood, and feeling unheard, which fuels my commitment to creating a therapeutic space where you are truly seen and valued. I have a passion in working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ clients, I specialize in high conflict couples, trauma, grief, socio-cultural issues, identity development, and managing life transitions.
As a Black gay male therapist, I bring a deeply personal understanding of the isolation and challenges faced by individuals with marginalized identities. My own journey and experience with clients have given me deep insights into the struggle of feeling voiceless and the impact of being misunderstood, and feeling unheard, which fuels my commitment to creating a therapeutic space where you are truly seen and valued. I have a passion in working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ clients, I specialize in high conflict couples, trauma, grief, socio-cultural issues, identity development, and managing life transitions.
Cultivate Your Essence
Counselor, LCPC, CDVP, Coach
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome to Cultivate Your Essence! Cultivate Your Essence is a group practice that is dedicated to women of color while prioritizing black women’s mental health. Entering an intimate space with yourself is no easy task. But with the help of someone you trust, it makes the journey a bit easier to embrace. It is our job is to help our clients live their absolute best life by unpacking, exploring and examining roadblocks from our past that are preventing us from being present in the now. This awareness helps to foster continual growth & grants access to understanding the story behind our behavior.
Hello and welcome to Cultivate Your Essence! Cultivate Your Essence is a group practice that is dedicated to women of color while prioritizing black women’s mental health. Entering an intimate space with yourself is no easy task. But with the help of someone you trust, it makes the journey a bit easier to embrace. It is our job is to help our clients live their absolute best life by unpacking, exploring and examining roadblocks from our past that are preventing us from being present in the now. This awareness helps to foster continual growth & grants access to understanding the story behind our behavior.
I am passionate about working with neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, and BIPOC populations and clients who actively identify with or are exploring non-monogamous relationships. I stand firmly in my beliefs of fat liberation, Black liberation, anti-racism, and sex worker decriminalization. I’m also interested in working with clients on issues surrounding mood/anxiety, trauma, sexuality, and reproductive mental health.
I am passionate about working with neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, and BIPOC populations and clients who actively identify with or are exploring non-monogamous relationships. I stand firmly in my beliefs of fat liberation, Black liberation, anti-racism, and sex worker decriminalization. I’m also interested in working with clients on issues surrounding mood/anxiety, trauma, sexuality, and reproductive mental health.
It is my honor to walk with you during this pivotal time in your journey. I work directly with individuals who are ready to get unstuck and work toward living their best life. As a 2Spirited, Black man of trans experience, I understand the multiple layers of oppression and the intersection of multicultural and spiritual backgrounds. It is my intention that you have a safe space to celebrate yourself and your own unique journey. I am intentional about supporting you as we create a pathway to a greater awareness of self. Join me in the journey towards deconstructing thought patterns that no longer serve you. Your best life awaits!
It is my honor to walk with you during this pivotal time in your journey. I work directly with individuals who are ready to get unstuck and work toward living their best life. As a 2Spirited, Black man of trans experience, I understand the multiple layers of oppression and the intersection of multicultural and spiritual backgrounds. It is my intention that you have a safe space to celebrate yourself and your own unique journey. I am intentional about supporting you as we create a pathway to a greater awareness of self. Join me in the journey towards deconstructing thought patterns that no longer serve you. Your best life awaits!
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Cicero
- Evergreen Park
- Forest Park
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Lincolnwood
- Maywood
- Oak Lawn
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Westchester
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.