Black and African American Therapists in Wichita, KS
![Photo of Uriah Cty, MA, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d3632ee-6248-4aca-a676-a1cef0700891/2/320x400.jpeg)
Uriah Cty
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67202 (Online Only)
I have a considerable background working with the African American community & other communities of color, and the LGBTQ & non-binary communities.
Maybe you remember this scene from a movie; picture it, a peaceful airplane ride becomes turbulent. The plane begins losing altitude rapidly. The flight attendant urgently instructs you to "put your oxygen mask on first" before helping others. That simple, but critical statement, is just as important in our everyday lives. Remembering to take time to yourself, non selfishly, can be difficult for anyone who tends to place others' needs first. Together, we'll explore your thoughts, feelings, decisions, choices, wants, and needs. I will assist you in" finding your voice" and help you to "put your oxygen mask on first
I have a considerable background working with the African American community & other communities of color, and the LGBTQ & non-binary communities.
Maybe you remember this scene from a movie; picture it, a peaceful airplane ride becomes turbulent. The plane begins losing altitude rapidly. The flight attendant urgently instructs you to "put your oxygen mask on first" before helping others. That simple, but critical statement, is just as important in our everyday lives. Remembering to take time to yourself, non selfishly, can be difficult for anyone who tends to place others' needs first. Together, we'll explore your thoughts, feelings, decisions, choices, wants, and needs. I will assist you in" finding your voice" and help you to "put your oxygen mask on first
![Photo of Jill S Macon - Jill S Macon Clinical Mental Health Counseling , LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53191a0b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jill S Macon Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67218
All cultures are welcome regardless of status or religion, Latinx, Mexican, Native American, African American, etc.
If you are neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, OCD, etc.), or gender diverse (transgender, non-binary, gender-queer, etc.), LGBTQIA+, relationship diverse (polyamory, non-monogamus, etc.), people of marginalized communities (non-white, PoC, multicultured, etc.) look no further. I believe in humanity and the human experience, and understand existing in a world that is not open to diversity and accpetance and how this leads to mental health overload. I will honor your unique culture or experience and provide you with ethical therapeutic treatment that meets your needs and culture.
All cultures are welcome regardless of status or religion, Latinx, Mexican, Native American, African American, etc.
If you are neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, OCD, etc.), or gender diverse (transgender, non-binary, gender-queer, etc.), LGBTQIA+, relationship diverse (polyamory, non-monogamus, etc.), people of marginalized communities (non-white, PoC, multicultured, etc.) look no further. I believe in humanity and the human experience, and understand existing in a world that is not open to diversity and accpetance and how this leads to mental health overload. I will honor your unique culture or experience and provide you with ethical therapeutic treatment that meets your needs and culture.
![Photo of Monica Turner, MSW, LSCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/287f5e74-c239-44cc-8bd4-ba4e818b1ecb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Monica Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67206
Are you an older or younger adult battling life challenges, relationship issues & personal development? Do you have a young child/children struggling to fit in, isolating, and making poor choices? I am a Black/African American therapist who provides therapy to toddlers, young children & teenagers ages 4 - 17, and women ages 18 - 65 in the Kansas City areas & Wichita, KS. I tailored my practice to meet clients where they are, providing them with a non-judgmental space to do so. I have noticed this approach has proven successful in helping clients of all ages and backgrounds feel comfortable sharing.
Are you an older or younger adult battling life challenges, relationship issues & personal development? Do you have a young child/children struggling to fit in, isolating, and making poor choices? I am a Black/African American therapist who provides therapy to toddlers, young children & teenagers ages 4 - 17, and women ages 18 - 65 in the Kansas City areas & Wichita, KS. I tailored my practice to meet clients where they are, providing them with a non-judgmental space to do so. I have noticed this approach has proven successful in helping clients of all ages and backgrounds feel comfortable sharing.
![Photo of Centurion Johnson, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7398a882-bf27-41aa-85d0-079d4f415ffa/1/320x400.jpeg)
A void that allowed black and brown people to be left to find sometimes inadequate ways of dealing with real mental health issues.
Hi, my name is Centurion Johnson. I'm a specialist in cultural trauma, men's issues and relationship counseling. I love working with individuals and supporting couples build healthy families. My approach is eclectic. I rely on solution focused, client-centered, CBT, and existential types of therapy. I work well with men, couples and families that are seeking to center and balance their lives and repair from dramas and traumas. My communication style is one that feels like you will probably feel like you are talking to a friend in a mirror.
A void that allowed black and brown people to be left to find sometimes inadequate ways of dealing with real mental health issues.
Hi, my name is Centurion Johnson. I'm a specialist in cultural trauma, men's issues and relationship counseling. I love working with individuals and supporting couples build healthy families. My approach is eclectic. I rely on solution focused, client-centered, CBT, and existential types of therapy. I work well with men, couples and families that are seeking to center and balance their lives and repair from dramas and traumas. My communication style is one that feels like you will probably feel like you are talking to a friend in a mirror.
![Photo of Caleb M Stephens, LMSW, LMAC, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e031fa5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Caleb M Stephens
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, LMAC, PhD
Verified Verified
Wichita, KS 67219 (Online Only)
My practice is set up to serve Black, Brown, and Indigenous folkx, and is a space that celebrates Queer and Trans folkx.
My name is Caleb Stephens, and I am an Intersectional Clinician. The reality of therapy is that it is inaccessible to most, and the majority of therapists gear their therapy around themselves, and not around the needs of the client, nor the layers of identity that exist. I am not a traditional therapist, as I am also an Activist, and the majority of the work that I do is Identity work. This is about meeting you where you're at, and I'm here for it.
My practice is set up to serve Black, Brown, and Indigenous folkx, and is a space that celebrates Queer and Trans folkx.
My name is Caleb Stephens, and I am an Intersectional Clinician. The reality of therapy is that it is inaccessible to most, and the majority of therapists gear their therapy around themselves, and not around the needs of the client, nor the layers of identity that exist. I am not a traditional therapist, as I am also an Activist, and the majority of the work that I do is Identity work. This is about meeting you where you're at, and I'm here for it.
![Photo of Dr. Selena Jackson, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2686b23-b879-4e43-8548-e8c7acaf0cd5/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychologist, I enjoy working with adults of all ages and have expertise with college students, early career professionals, women's health and well-being, and the BIPOC (black, indigenous, people of color) community.
Sometimes the struggle in life is real. Whether it be feelings of anxiety and depression, difficulties in relationships, or struggles with self-esteem, therapy can provide a safe space for your journey to hope and healing. In this process, I encourage my clients to lean into the discomfort and joy of self-discovery and growth as they build the skills to manage life's challenges. I also offer pre-surgical bariatric assessments as well as psychological testing for ADHD, autism, learning disabilities and more for older teens and adults.
As a psychologist, I enjoy working with adults of all ages and have expertise with college students, early career professionals, women's health and well-being, and the BIPOC (black, indigenous, people of color) community.
Sometimes the struggle in life is real. Whether it be feelings of anxiety and depression, difficulties in relationships, or struggles with self-esteem, therapy can provide a safe space for your journey to hope and healing. In this process, I encourage my clients to lean into the discomfort and joy of self-discovery and growth as they build the skills to manage life's challenges. I also offer pre-surgical bariatric assessments as well as psychological testing for ADHD, autism, learning disabilities and more for older teens and adults.
![Photo of Tasha Parker, PhD, LSCSW, MPA, ACHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1dea5c9a-13d2-4873-9594-d057f28e07e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tasha Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LSCSW, MPA, ACHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67203
Surviving the everyday grind of life can be difficult. Difficulties come in different forms and impacts individuals and families differently. These difficulties that we face causes us to be focused on surviving from day to day and never learning to live and embrace life. If this sounds familiar than I can help you. I believe that through empowerment, accountability training, self advocacy, and strengthen hope we can all learn to live more enjoyable lives. If you feel that you can benefit from mental health, behavioral health, life coaching, and or emotional wellness services you have come to the right place.
Surviving the everyday grind of life can be difficult. Difficulties come in different forms and impacts individuals and families differently. These difficulties that we face causes us to be focused on surviving from day to day and never learning to live and embrace life. If this sounds familiar than I can help you. I believe that through empowerment, accountability training, self advocacy, and strengthen hope we can all learn to live more enjoyable lives. If you feel that you can benefit from mental health, behavioral health, life coaching, and or emotional wellness services you have come to the right place.
![Photo of Jeryn Jamaal Collier, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b52afbd-33d3-49ae-991d-e1b1eb8e7035/2/320x400.jpeg)
The highway of life can take us through a multitude of potholes and construction zones. The internal story we create over that time can sometimes become skewed by the beliefs & expectations we place on our lives in this fast paced life. Helping others work toward building a better understanding of the effects of their past while also constructing the best version of their current selves is what I love to do.
The highway of life can take us through a multitude of potholes and construction zones. The internal story we create over that time can sometimes become skewed by the beliefs & expectations we place on our lives in this fast paced life. Helping others work toward building a better understanding of the effects of their past while also constructing the best version of their current selves is what I love to do.
![Photo of Micheal (Mac) McKenzie, MS, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eb9d310-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mac graduated from Friends University with a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. A Wichita native, he has served the community in various social-service and clinical roles. Currently, Mac offers brief solution focus, narrative, cognitive behavioral, and EMDR treatment approaches. Mac also offers play therapy to ages four and above. He is currently providing services for individuals, couples, families, adolescent issues, marital issues, parent training, co-parent training, and court related issues. Mac also offers a 6 week intensive premarital counseling program. Call our office to see how Mac might be able to assist you.
Mac graduated from Friends University with a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. A Wichita native, he has served the community in various social-service and clinical roles. Currently, Mac offers brief solution focus, narrative, cognitive behavioral, and EMDR treatment approaches. Mac also offers play therapy to ages four and above. He is currently providing services for individuals, couples, families, adolescent issues, marital issues, parent training, co-parent training, and court related issues. Mac also offers a 6 week intensive premarital counseling program. Call our office to see how Mac might be able to assist you.
![Photo of Myisha Elliott - Confident Counseling LLC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54adec8f-c78a-4e42-942b-e2eb519ed7d7/1/320x400.png)
Hello, my name is Myisha Elliott and I'm a Licensed Master's Social Worker. I am dedicated to empowering individuals to take control of their mental health and reclaim their quality of life. Through therapy, I provide a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences, while equipping them with the tools and strategies they need to overcome challenges and thrive. I believe that every person has the potential to heal and grow. My purpose is to walk alongside my clients on their therapeutic journey assisting in unlocking their inner strength while cultivating the confident person within.
Hello, my name is Myisha Elliott and I'm a Licensed Master's Social Worker. I am dedicated to empowering individuals to take control of their mental health and reclaim their quality of life. Through therapy, I provide a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences, while equipping them with the tools and strategies they need to overcome challenges and thrive. I believe that every person has the potential to heal and grow. My purpose is to walk alongside my clients on their therapeutic journey assisting in unlocking their inner strength while cultivating the confident person within.
![Photo of Tuyet M Johnson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afdbb49b-af7e-44b6-b7e3-57a90c0501b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling stuck, anxious, depressed or simply uncertain? You're not alone. Many of us carry within us untold stories of trauma and limiting beliefs that keep us stagnated. Unresolved emotions can take a toll on both mental and physical well-being. Regardless of where you are or how far you've veered off your desired path, you have the capacity to start anew. I truly believe that "If you can change your mind, you can change your life." By learning to tap into your innate power and tuning in to the voice of your higher self, you can begin to live a coherence life that is filled with purpose and meaning.
Are you feeling stuck, anxious, depressed or simply uncertain? You're not alone. Many of us carry within us untold stories of trauma and limiting beliefs that keep us stagnated. Unresolved emotions can take a toll on both mental and physical well-being. Regardless of where you are or how far you've veered off your desired path, you have the capacity to start anew. I truly believe that "If you can change your mind, you can change your life." By learning to tap into your innate power and tuning in to the voice of your higher self, you can begin to live a coherence life that is filled with purpose and meaning.
15 Second Videos
Uriah Cty
Monica Turner
Caleb M Stephens
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Kamilah Sharpe
Emily L Winesberry
Christina M. Winesberry
Ashley McKinney
Tyrone Townsend
Courtney Neal
![Photo of Falisha Scott, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acf33741-2536-4a45-b324-5280bd86842c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new clients! Allow me to aid you on your personal journey of healing, motherhood, self-discovery, & self-empowerment. Our approach Intertwines counseling (CBT, Strength-Based, Mindfulness, & Narrative) w/mindful body movement, & other positive coping mechanisms that will aid you throughout your journey. Your journey is unique. Don’t allow the pace of others to alter your view. Faith is at the center of everything we do in this practice. I aim to cater to couples, young women (16+), & perinatal & maternal mental health. Specializing in mothers who have experienced the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at any capacity.
Now accepting new clients! Allow me to aid you on your personal journey of healing, motherhood, self-discovery, & self-empowerment. Our approach Intertwines counseling (CBT, Strength-Based, Mindfulness, & Narrative) w/mindful body movement, & other positive coping mechanisms that will aid you throughout your journey. Your journey is unique. Don’t allow the pace of others to alter your view. Faith is at the center of everything we do in this practice. I aim to cater to couples, young women (16+), & perinatal & maternal mental health. Specializing in mothers who have experienced the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at any capacity.
![Photo of Bridgette Miller, LCMFT, CFRC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1ad0748-d4d9-48ff-99f8-eb05808a16b3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life can present us with unexpected and difficult challenges. My mission is to aid you in processing through those challenges, as you evolve into a better version of yourself. Therapy is a journey where you can gain further insight into yourself, your wants/needs and regain control over the narrative of your life.
Life can present us with unexpected and difficult challenges. My mission is to aid you in processing through those challenges, as you evolve into a better version of yourself. Therapy is a journey where you can gain further insight into yourself, your wants/needs and regain control over the narrative of your life.
![Photo of L'Oreal Benitez, LCMFT, LCAC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48f4f0cd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
L'Oreal Benitez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, LCAC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67220
Waitlist for new clients
At times it can be challenging to cope with the obstacle's life can throw our way. I am passionate about working with individuals achieve their personal goals. I have experience working with couples, adolescents, and adults from many different diverse backgrounds. I specialize in treating trauma, eating disorders, and pregnancy related concerns including infertility and infant loss. In addition, I work with various other mental health needs including depression, anxiety, psychosis, and substance use disorders. Benitez Counseling also offers Drug and Alcohol Assessments.
At times it can be challenging to cope with the obstacle's life can throw our way. I am passionate about working with individuals achieve their personal goals. I have experience working with couples, adolescents, and adults from many different diverse backgrounds. I specialize in treating trauma, eating disorders, and pregnancy related concerns including infertility and infant loss. In addition, I work with various other mental health needs including depression, anxiety, psychosis, and substance use disorders. Benitez Counseling also offers Drug and Alcohol Assessments.
![Photo of Ashley Parker, LCMFT, LMAC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3affe332-7713-44e1-98bc-098ac2e98c14/3/320x400.png)
I am a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist, a Licensed Masters Addiction Counselor, and a Certified Grief Informed professional. I have experience working with diverse individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I also help people who may be facing other psychological difficulties such as grief / loss, addiction, and phase of life or adjustment issues (e.g. divorce, launching of children, empty nest, retirement, etc.). I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as a default, but I'm willing to adjust to the client's needs and preferences.
I am a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist, a Licensed Masters Addiction Counselor, and a Certified Grief Informed professional. I have experience working with diverse individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I also help people who may be facing other psychological difficulties such as grief / loss, addiction, and phase of life or adjustment issues (e.g. divorce, launching of children, empty nest, retirement, etc.). I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as a default, but I'm willing to adjust to the client's needs and preferences.
![Photo of Jonathan D Blackwell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08583879-354e-4499-8670-c00d431ab4a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jonathan D Blackwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67202
What else could go wrong? Why do I keep trying? What's the use? I guess this is just how things will always be. No one understands me. I don't fit in. My family doesn't care. Relationship issues, trouble communicating, trouble processing, or still trying to find yourself? Are these questions or thoughts that you struggle with? Well, guess what? You are not the only one. So, now, Imagine yourself with a huge smile, and gut busting laugh that is authentic and genuine. Not like the ones you have faked for so long. Think of that laughter and smile, without feeling all the anxiety, depression, etc..... sounds great right?
What else could go wrong? Why do I keep trying? What's the use? I guess this is just how things will always be. No one understands me. I don't fit in. My family doesn't care. Relationship issues, trouble communicating, trouble processing, or still trying to find yourself? Are these questions or thoughts that you struggle with? Well, guess what? You are not the only one. So, now, Imagine yourself with a huge smile, and gut busting laugh that is authentic and genuine. Not like the ones you have faked for so long. Think of that laughter and smile, without feeling all the anxiety, depression, etc..... sounds great right?
![Photo of E. Lamonica Williams, MSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ecfa102-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
When emotional pain interrupt's your life it can be both paralyzing and debilitating affecting your daily life and routine. When this happen's it can feel as if your whole world has came to an screeching halt, and that is because it has. You may be experiencing thoughts dominated by loss coupled with poor concentration, tearful spells, and confusion about your future. Maybe you're feeling depressed or discouraged by a variety of life's interruption's. Whatever kind of pain and emotional discomfort that you are feeling, I care and I want to help you heal and move forward.
When emotional pain interrupt's your life it can be both paralyzing and debilitating affecting your daily life and routine. When this happen's it can feel as if your whole world has came to an screeching halt, and that is because it has. You may be experiencing thoughts dominated by loss coupled with poor concentration, tearful spells, and confusion about your future. Maybe you're feeling depressed or discouraged by a variety of life's interruption's. Whatever kind of pain and emotional discomfort that you are feeling, I care and I want to help you heal and move forward.
![Photo of Lindsey Santellan, PhD, MH, RTTP, Pastoral Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68f16767-9ab1-4aeb-8127-34860318b27e/3/320x400.jpeg)
I help people gain freedom from their issues with a revolutionary technique taught by my mentor, Marisa Peer, voted Britain’s best therapist. With RTT I can fix anything from skin conditions to weight issues, to phobias, to addictions, to chronic illness and disease, in just 1-3 sessions. I’m still seeing traditional therapy clients, but since my accreditation in RTT, I’m focusing on moving my practice to exclusively RTT and coaching clients. My target client includes anyone who has been unable to fix or heal from any type of issue, they’ve tried other ways, but have been unsuccessful! RTT is the missing link that can free you!
I help people gain freedom from their issues with a revolutionary technique taught by my mentor, Marisa Peer, voted Britain’s best therapist. With RTT I can fix anything from skin conditions to weight issues, to phobias, to addictions, to chronic illness and disease, in just 1-3 sessions. I’m still seeing traditional therapy clients, but since my accreditation in RTT, I’m focusing on moving my practice to exclusively RTT and coaching clients. My target client includes anyone who has been unable to fix or heal from any type of issue, they’ve tried other ways, but have been unsuccessful! RTT is the missing link that can free you!
![Photo of Cheyenne Lara, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ab4a111-ec44-4b80-ba99-b24b873f9638/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges and build lasting resilience. With experience working with clients aged 13 and up, I offer a compassionate and supportive therapeutic environment. I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches, including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy, tailoring my treatment to meet each client’s unique needs. My focus is on creating a safe space where clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
I am passionate about helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges and build lasting resilience. With experience working with clients aged 13 and up, I offer a compassionate and supportive therapeutic environment. I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches, including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy, tailoring my treatment to meet each client’s unique needs. My focus is on creating a safe space where clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
![Photo of Raneisha T. Hunter, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c645954a-d5ff-433d-a786-f994f24b22d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Raneisha T. Hunter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wichita, KS 67202
Are you a working professional who feels overwhelmed? Do you find yourself needing to hold it all together? Do you feel that you have no other choice but to be “strong”? Do you secretly have low self-esteem, insecurities, and find that your childhood trauma often resurfaces during certain situations? Or are you looking for extra support and/or guidance through a challenging situation? Then you have found the right space for you. I would love to walk with you through the journey of self-discovery, clarity, authenticity, and healing. I can assist you in arriving at whatever goal or goals that you have in mind.
Are you a working professional who feels overwhelmed? Do you find yourself needing to hold it all together? Do you feel that you have no other choice but to be “strong”? Do you secretly have low self-esteem, insecurities, and find that your childhood trauma often resurfaces during certain situations? Or are you looking for extra support and/or guidance through a challenging situation? Then you have found the right space for you. I would love to walk with you through the journey of self-discovery, clarity, authenticity, and healing. I can assist you in arriving at whatever goal or goals that you have in mind.
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See More TherapistsBlack 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.