Black and African American Therapists in Columbia, MD
Dr. Kenya A. Ford
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with all minorities in society, including LGBTQ+ folx. I have experience working through taboo topics, trauma, racial identity and women's issues, and am vocal about my stance on social justice when necessary. I use an integrative approach to therapy to tailor sessions to the specific needs of each of my clients. I am humanistic, person-centered in my approach and facilitate interpersonal relational work. I am always strength based and really enjoy working with Black folx & people of color, but I am willing to work with anyone who is ready to work through current life stressors in non judgmental space.
I am passionate about working with all minorities in society, including LGBTQ+ folx. I have experience working through taboo topics, trauma, racial identity and women's issues, and am vocal about my stance on social justice when necessary. I use an integrative approach to therapy to tailor sessions to the specific needs of each of my clients. I am humanistic, person-centered in my approach and facilitate interpersonal relational work. I am always strength based and really enjoy working with Black folx & people of color, but I am willing to work with anyone who is ready to work through current life stressors in non judgmental space.
The Howard Group, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
The Howard Group is a Maryland based therapy practice with the mission to support the mental wellness of the African American community. As an African American male-led therapy practice, we understand the unique challenges faced by the teens and men in our community and are passionate about making a difference. Our therapeutic approach incorporates cognitive therapy and motivational interviewing strategies combined with 25+ years of experience. We provide a safe space for black males to find healing and restoration. If you need a safe environment where you feel valued and understood, we got you!
The Howard Group is a Maryland based therapy practice with the mission to support the mental wellness of the African American community. As an African American male-led therapy practice, we understand the unique challenges faced by the teens and men in our community and are passionate about making a difference. Our therapeutic approach incorporates cognitive therapy and motivational interviewing strategies combined with 25+ years of experience. We provide a safe space for black males to find healing and restoration. If you need a safe environment where you feel valued and understood, we got you!
Monet Hinton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have a degree in Psychology and African/African-American Studies from the University of Virginia, and I received my Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland in Baltimore.
Balance is hard. There are often many influences in our lives pushing and pulling us in different directions – work, friends, school, a continued global pandemic, relationships with others, relationships with ourselves. It can be hard to navigate, and it takes incredible strength to reach out and acknowledge needing help. My goal is always to support my clients in defining what balance looks like for them and taking steps to achieve it.
I have a degree in Psychology and African/African-American Studies from the University of Virginia, and I received my Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland in Baltimore.
Balance is hard. There are often many influences in our lives pushing and pulling us in different directions – work, friends, school, a continued global pandemic, relationships with others, relationships with ourselves. It can be hard to navigate, and it takes incredible strength to reach out and acknowledge needing help. My goal is always to support my clients in defining what balance looks like for them and taking steps to achieve it.
Accepting new clients. I understand how difficult it can be to entertain the idea that life can be different. It is my belief that therapy is a space for you to interrogate beliefs, regain a sense of agency, and to rewrite your story. I will work with you to gently explore the origins of beliefs that no longer serve you and use evidenced based therapy to empower you. Additionally, I work with couples and those in ENM relationships to improve communication, repair trust, reduce conflict, and, strengthen bonds. As a Black, gay man, I am especially interested in creating a welcoming space for clients from the LGBTQ+ community.
Accepting new clients. I understand how difficult it can be to entertain the idea that life can be different. It is my belief that therapy is a space for you to interrogate beliefs, regain a sense of agency, and to rewrite your story. I will work with you to gently explore the origins of beliefs that no longer serve you and use evidenced based therapy to empower you. Additionally, I work with couples and those in ENM relationships to improve communication, repair trust, reduce conflict, and, strengthen bonds. As a Black, gay man, I am especially interested in creating a welcoming space for clients from the LGBTQ+ community.
Relief with Rissa, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCTS-II, TF-CBT , BSP
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
Relief with Rissa, LLC approach to therapy is simple; we are committed to the mental health, emotional well-being and general wellness of black women & men.
Welcome, my name is Mirissa Jackson, LCSW-C. I am the owner of the group practice, Relief with Rissa, LLC. Relief with Rissa, LLC believes in curating a safe online environment for African American women and men who have been faced with difficulties, challenges, and traumatic events that has forced them to function from a place of survival. Relief with Rissa, LLC brings a renewed perspective on how traumatic events may be contributing to current symptoms such as: depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood changes, difficulty managing or expressing emotions, self-esteem struggles, and/or ongoing problems in your relationships.
Relief with Rissa, LLC approach to therapy is simple; we are committed to the mental health, emotional well-being and general wellness of black women & men.
Welcome, my name is Mirissa Jackson, LCSW-C. I am the owner of the group practice, Relief with Rissa, LLC. Relief with Rissa, LLC believes in curating a safe online environment for African American women and men who have been faced with difficulties, challenges, and traumatic events that has forced them to function from a place of survival. Relief with Rissa, LLC brings a renewed perspective on how traumatic events may be contributing to current symptoms such as: depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood changes, difficulty managing or expressing emotions, self-esteem struggles, and/or ongoing problems in your relationships.
Dr. Nyasha Grayman | Counseling Psychologist
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044
Waitlist for new clients
The wait to see me is short. Most important is that you know that your heart is welcome here. As a trusted counseling psychologist, I specialize in providing private, compassionate, and culturally responsive support to Black women navigating the profound journey of grief, loss, and other stressful life events and transitions. Counseling is currently available everywhere in Maryland. Grief coaching is available to those across all states including NY, PA, DC, VA. My approach is holistic, addressing the unique biopsychosocial, emotional, and spiritual needs that accompany your difficulties.
The wait to see me is short. Most important is that you know that your heart is welcome here. As a trusted counseling psychologist, I specialize in providing private, compassionate, and culturally responsive support to Black women navigating the profound journey of grief, loss, and other stressful life events and transitions. Counseling is currently available everywhere in Maryland. Grief coaching is available to those across all states including NY, PA, DC, VA. My approach is holistic, addressing the unique biopsychosocial, emotional, and spiritual needs that accompany your difficulties.
IMMEDIATE sessions available. Please visit: www.gycounseling.com to request an appointment. GY COUNSELING, LLC is a thriving mental health group private practice that is owned by a Black woman Psychologist. We work with diverse clientele who are in the mist of grief/loss, life transitions, and emotional challenges, to achieve a more effective and healthier outlook on your life. We establish rapport and utilize the therapeutic relationship to promote the change process. With compassion and understanding, we work with individuals to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.
IMMEDIATE sessions available. Please visit: www.gycounseling.com to request an appointment. GY COUNSELING, LLC is a thriving mental health group private practice that is owned by a Black woman Psychologist. We work with diverse clientele who are in the mist of grief/loss, life transitions, and emotional challenges, to achieve a more effective and healthier outlook on your life. We establish rapport and utilize the therapeutic relationship to promote the change process. With compassion and understanding, we work with individuals to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.
Rebecca Maria Schaffner Board Approved Supervisor
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21046
You have experienced trauma as a First Responder (EMT, Firefighter, Military, Law Enforcement etc), witnessed a terrible accident, struggle to cope with stress and anxiety, mood or adjustment due to immigration, racial discrimination, refugee status or identity concerns (LGBTQ, African-American). If these issues are affecting your social, home, family or work life too much, therapy with me can help in several ways!
You have experienced trauma as a First Responder (EMT, Firefighter, Military, Law Enforcement etc), witnessed a terrible accident, struggle to cope with stress and anxiety, mood or adjustment due to immigration, racial discrimination, refugee status or identity concerns (LGBTQ, African-American). If these issues are affecting your social, home, family or work life too much, therapy with me can help in several ways!
He regularly speaks at church retreats, has appeared in Ebony and Essence magazine, the Washington Post & Times, BET, and TVOne; and authored The Black MANual: Less Drama, More Love -- a Single Woman's Guide to Choosing Mr.
Whether you just heard, "I love you, but I'm not in love with you," are trying to rebuild trust after an affair, need to replace distance with closeness, need to forgive (or be forgiven), or are trying to avoid separation or stop a divorce -- Dr. Shane employs Gottman Institute's research based methods to help couples develop the skills needed to hear (and be heard), resolve conflicts in a "win/win' vs a "win/lose" fashion, and speak each other's "love language" so that you can try and make peace with the past and get past the hurt.
He regularly speaks at church retreats, has appeared in Ebony and Essence magazine, the Washington Post & Times, BET, and TVOne; and authored The Black MANual: Less Drama, More Love -- a Single Woman's Guide to Choosing Mr.
Whether you just heard, "I love you, but I'm not in love with you," are trying to rebuild trust after an affair, need to replace distance with closeness, need to forgive (or be forgiven), or are trying to avoid separation or stop a divorce -- Dr. Shane employs Gottman Institute's research based methods to help couples develop the skills needed to hear (and be heard), resolve conflicts in a "win/win' vs a "win/lose" fashion, and speak each other's "love language" so that you can try and make peace with the past and get past the hurt.
ML Ministries
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MDiv, MSPC, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
My theological approach is liberation theology and Black feminist theory that I use is to help women tell their own stories to heal.
Discovering one's life purpose is often an elusive and uncertain journey. People can live most of their lives and never discover their purpose. When the experiences of pain, suffering, and grief seem to be the norm rather than peace, joy, and love, the question is often, "why do bad things happen to good people?" Understanding and embracing life's most challenging experiences make the difference between resilience and despair. Your story narrated through your own lens can help you discover your purpose through meaning-making of all your hurts and find hope in the midst of your healing.
My theological approach is liberation theology and Black feminist theory that I use is to help women tell their own stories to heal.
Discovering one's life purpose is often an elusive and uncertain journey. People can live most of their lives and never discover their purpose. When the experiences of pain, suffering, and grief seem to be the norm rather than peace, joy, and love, the question is often, "why do bad things happen to good people?" Understanding and embracing life's most challenging experiences make the difference between resilience and despair. Your story narrated through your own lens can help you discover your purpose through meaning-making of all your hurts and find hope in the midst of your healing.
Tina M Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044 (Online Only)
She is a daughter of a biracial father( Cherokee Indian and African-American) and has a passion working with Native Americans as well.
Tina Allen is a licensed clinical social worker with 26 years of clinical experience in leadership, counseling and assisting men, women and children impacted by mental health, trauma and addiction. In the past, Tina has served as the lead supervisor at a well known outpatient behavioral health agency in WDC for the development and implementation of an innovative co-occurring disorder research project funded by the West family and partnered with Dartmouth Psychiatric Research Center where she help to contribute to the success of over 100 consumers overcoming their addiction and improving their mental health symptoms.
She is a daughter of a biracial father( Cherokee Indian and African-American) and has a passion working with Native Americans as well.
Tina Allen is a licensed clinical social worker with 26 years of clinical experience in leadership, counseling and assisting men, women and children impacted by mental health, trauma and addiction. In the past, Tina has served as the lead supervisor at a well known outpatient behavioral health agency in WDC for the development and implementation of an innovative co-occurring disorder research project funded by the West family and partnered with Dartmouth Psychiatric Research Center where she help to contribute to the success of over 100 consumers overcoming their addiction and improving their mental health symptoms.
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Our practice specializes in working with individuals and couples who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color as well LGBTQIA2+.
Greetings, Beloved! For so long, you’ve longed to be seen and heard, respected, and feel valued for what you are--not just what you can do. You’ve been so busy with work, family, and social commitments that you’ve had to ignore the big pains and small hurts just to do all that needed to be done. It’s taken a toll though, even if nobody else can see it. But you’ve decided that it’s okay to prioritize your own health and wellbeing. You need and deserve more support, and this is your time to receive it. You’re ready to face the old wounds that have haunted you and to finally work through the issues that have kept you stuck.
Our practice specializes in working with individuals and couples who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color as well LGBTQIA2+.
Greetings, Beloved! For so long, you’ve longed to be seen and heard, respected, and feel valued for what you are--not just what you can do. You’ve been so busy with work, family, and social commitments that you’ve had to ignore the big pains and small hurts just to do all that needed to be done. It’s taken a toll though, even if nobody else can see it. But you’ve decided that it’s okay to prioritize your own health and wellbeing. You need and deserve more support, and this is your time to receive it. You’re ready to face the old wounds that have haunted you and to finally work through the issues that have kept you stuck.
Often, we have the desire and motivation to change, but we don’t know how to get started. It can be helpful to have support that provides opportunities for exploration, creativity, and increased self-awareness along our journeys. That’s exactly where I come in. I’m a Black, queer, able-bodied ciswoman who is passionate about supporting you as you navigate your journey of self-exploration, growth, and discovery. I strive to create a warm and safe therapeutic environment that affirms and celebrates all of your identities. My approach to testing is rooted in empathy, connection, and collaboration. NOT offering therapy at this time.
Often, we have the desire and motivation to change, but we don’t know how to get started. It can be helpful to have support that provides opportunities for exploration, creativity, and increased self-awareness along our journeys. That’s exactly where I come in. I’m a Black, queer, able-bodied ciswoman who is passionate about supporting you as you navigate your journey of self-exploration, growth, and discovery. I strive to create a warm and safe therapeutic environment that affirms and celebrates all of your identities. My approach to testing is rooted in empathy, connection, and collaboration. NOT offering therapy at this time.
As a Black man raised by a single mother, I have a special affinity to preserving the health, stability, and wellness of the Black family.
FEW Spots Remaining for NEW Clients! Welcome to your first step and a vital decision to choose you! Being seen and heard are undervalued in our society. Do you allow the space and care that you need to be whole? Pouring from an empty cup is difficult. I welcome individuals, couples, and families, whether seeking self-enlightenment, coping, better communication, or unity. Though implied in the text, I extend a special invitation to the men. We feel we always HAVE to be "ok," but we know better, fellas! Seeking help is a show of strength.
As a Black man raised by a single mother, I have a special affinity to preserving the health, stability, and wellness of the Black family.
FEW Spots Remaining for NEW Clients! Welcome to your first step and a vital decision to choose you! Being seen and heard are undervalued in our society. Do you allow the space and care that you need to be whole? Pouring from an empty cup is difficult. I welcome individuals, couples, and families, whether seeking self-enlightenment, coping, better communication, or unity. Though implied in the text, I extend a special invitation to the men. We feel we always HAVE to be "ok," but we know better, fellas! Seeking help is a show of strength.
Chernavia Miller-Hollingsworth
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044 (Online Only)
Looking for a space that feels safe enough to talk and work through your struggles with support and connection? To gain perspective? To better understand yourself, your patterns, and practice new, healthy ways of being and coping? What about being able to trust yourself, have your emotions validated and supported, explore relational strategies that can serve you better? As a Black woman & licensed BIPOC therapist, I am deeply in tune with how culture can shape our relationships with ourselves and experiences with anxiety, depression, and trauma. For this reason, I incorporate mind-body/somatic therapy techniques to support healing.
Looking for a space that feels safe enough to talk and work through your struggles with support and connection? To gain perspective? To better understand yourself, your patterns, and practice new, healthy ways of being and coping? What about being able to trust yourself, have your emotions validated and supported, explore relational strategies that can serve you better? As a Black woman & licensed BIPOC therapist, I am deeply in tune with how culture can shape our relationships with ourselves and experiences with anxiety, depression, and trauma. For this reason, I incorporate mind-body/somatic therapy techniques to support healing.
Our mission is heal and eradicate the reverberating effects trauma in the African American community.
Accepting new clients. In person and telehealth sessions available! Are you STUCK in unhealthy relationships with yourself, your family, and maybe even your friends? Have you ever said to yourself “How did I get here again?” Do you have difficulty saying “no?” Unhealthy relationships can leave us heartbroken and unfulfilled. We spend countless amounts of energy trying to figure out where we went wrong all to no avail. We become sad, angry, jaded and defeated. Sometimes we give up on relationships all together. It hurts to much to stay and we are too afraid to change. We get STUCK between a rock and a hard place.
Our mission is heal and eradicate the reverberating effects trauma in the African American community.
Accepting new clients. In person and telehealth sessions available! Are you STUCK in unhealthy relationships with yourself, your family, and maybe even your friends? Have you ever said to yourself “How did I get here again?” Do you have difficulty saying “no?” Unhealthy relationships can leave us heartbroken and unfulfilled. We spend countless amounts of energy trying to figure out where we went wrong all to no avail. We become sad, angry, jaded and defeated. Sometimes we give up on relationships all together. It hurts to much to stay and we are too afraid to change. We get STUCK between a rock and a hard place.
Sometimes life can knock us down and leave us feeling emotionally drained, anxious, frustrated, or hopeless. Ready to be empowered? I believe empowerment has real meaning when clients take the first step in defining it through a collaborative counseling process. Throughout this process I help clients to restore balance in their lives. I'm a licensed professional counselor in MD with a Doctorate of Education in Counseling Psychology. With more than 10 years in the counseling field, I use a nonjudgmental approach with a style tailored to each individual's needs.
Sometimes life can knock us down and leave us feeling emotionally drained, anxious, frustrated, or hopeless. Ready to be empowered? I believe empowerment has real meaning when clients take the first step in defining it through a collaborative counseling process. Throughout this process I help clients to restore balance in their lives. I'm a licensed professional counselor in MD with a Doctorate of Education in Counseling Psychology. With more than 10 years in the counseling field, I use a nonjudgmental approach with a style tailored to each individual's needs.
Brittany Cephas
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC, NCC, PhD, Student
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21046 (Online Only)
Thank you for choosing Growing Young Minds Counseling, a private mental health service for children and adolescents. Have you noticed a change in your child's mood or behavior? Is your child isolating themselves from others, including you? Have you witnessed them crying at times, and it seem to have come out of nowhere? We are here to help! We have lots of experience helping children and adolescents develop solid coping skills that will address what they are going through. We offer family counseling services and parent coaching, because we believe that a strong family support system is KEY to the success of my clients.
Thank you for choosing Growing Young Minds Counseling, a private mental health service for children and adolescents. Have you noticed a change in your child's mood or behavior? Is your child isolating themselves from others, including you? Have you witnessed them crying at times, and it seem to have come out of nowhere? We are here to help! We have lots of experience helping children and adolescents develop solid coping skills that will address what they are going through. We offer family counseling services and parent coaching, because we believe that a strong family support system is KEY to the success of my clients.
Therapeutic Empowerment & Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, CLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
At Therapeutic Empowerment & Wellness, we are committed to guiding you on your journey towards mental and emotional well-being. Our team of compassionate and experienced therapists are dedicated to empowering individuals, couples, and families to overcome challenges, achieve personal growth, and lead fulfilling lives. With a holistic approach to mental health, we believe in addressing the unique needs of each client. Our therapeutic interventions are grounded in evidence-based practices, tailored to meet your specific goals and concerns.
At Therapeutic Empowerment & Wellness, we are committed to guiding you on your journey towards mental and emotional well-being. Our team of compassionate and experienced therapists are dedicated to empowering individuals, couples, and families to overcome challenges, achieve personal growth, and lead fulfilling lives. With a holistic approach to mental health, we believe in addressing the unique needs of each client. Our therapeutic interventions are grounded in evidence-based practices, tailored to meet your specific goals and concerns.
Stephanie Avinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MPA, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21046 (Online Only)
Imagine Wellness Counseling Services helps young and middle aged adults who are experiencing work stress, anxiety, relationship issues, or uncertainty since COVID-19 get back on track through a psychological ( psychotherapy; i.e. strengths- based, solution focused) and social/lifestyle (community resources and holistic-based referrals) approach.
Imagine Wellness Counseling Services helps young and middle aged adults who are experiencing work stress, anxiety, relationship issues, or uncertainty since COVID-19 get back on track through a psychological ( psychotherapy; i.e. strengths- based, solution focused) and social/lifestyle (community resources and holistic-based referrals) approach.
See more therapy options for Columbia
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Columbia
- Burtonsville
- Catonsville
- Clarksville
- Elkridge
- Ellicott City
- Fulton
- Hanover
- Laurel
- Maryland City
- North Laurel
- Severn
- Windsor Mill
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.