Black and African American Therapists in Holland, MI

Photo of Karissa “Rissa” Wright, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karissa “Rissa” Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
Life is full of twists & turns; seasons that are heavy & seasons we move through with ease. I believe we all can benefit from a listening ear & predictable support as we embrace a life of radical honesty. I count it one of my greatest joys to have the honor of holding space for others as they sit with their past, navigate their present, & dream of what their future could be. My approach is focused on strengths, & providing hope as we navigate life together. I'm passionate about meeting people with acceptance & hope; exactly where they are, however they show up in this world.
Life is full of twists & turns; seasons that are heavy & seasons we move through with ease. I believe we all can benefit from a listening ear & predictable support as we embrace a life of radical honesty. I count it one of my greatest joys to have the honor of holding space for others as they sit with their past, navigate their present, & dream of what their future could be. My approach is focused on strengths, & providing hope as we navigate life together. I'm passionate about meeting people with acceptance & hope; exactly where they are, however they show up in this world.
(269) 367-3931 View (269) 367-3931
Photo of Bree Jenene Austin-Roberts, LMSW, CFSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bree Jenene Austin-Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CFSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
I understand that trauma can be a barrier to living a full life. I also understand that anxiety and depression can be completely debilitating. My goal in private practice is to help you learn about your deepest self, develop healthy coping skills, become your best self advocate, and achieve the highest quality of life through cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapy. If you are in need of specific resources or community services, I walk alongside my clients to identify needs and coordinate services. I enjoy working with clients and professionals at all stages of mental health wellness.
I understand that trauma can be a barrier to living a full life. I also understand that anxiety and depression can be completely debilitating. My goal in private practice is to help you learn about your deepest self, develop healthy coping skills, become your best self advocate, and achieve the highest quality of life through cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapy. If you are in need of specific resources or community services, I walk alongside my clients to identify needs and coordinate services. I enjoy working with clients and professionals at all stages of mental health wellness.
(616) 310-4844 View (616) 310-4844
Photo of Joshua Campbell, MA, DTLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Joshua Campbell
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, DTLLP
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
Relationships (any) can be challenging, and sometimes may feel unmanagable. I recognize this, and invite you an opportunity to learn how to navigate those relationships. Additionally, I do not want distance to be a barrier for receiving this assistance. Please feel free to reach out to me about Teletherapy options as well as in person options.
Relationships (any) can be challenging, and sometimes may feel unmanagable. I recognize this, and invite you an opportunity to learn how to navigate those relationships. Additionally, I do not want distance to be a barrier for receiving this assistance. Please feel free to reach out to me about Teletherapy options as well as in person options.
(616) 303-3552 View (616) 303-3552
Photo of Llena Chavis, PhD, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Llena Chavis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49424  (Online Only)
I am nurturing, yet direct in my approach and see working towards tangible change as important. Therapy in my office is always client led coupled with some therapist guided cognitive changes to approaching problems and setting concrete goals. I come with 20 years of clinical experience working with individuals, families as well as with couples and groups. My experience has stemmed from a variety of settings including domestic violence shelters, psychiatric units, juvenile detention centers, college campuses and private practice.
I am nurturing, yet direct in my approach and see working towards tangible change as important. Therapy in my office is always client led coupled with some therapist guided cognitive changes to approaching problems and setting concrete goals. I come with 20 years of clinical experience working with individuals, families as well as with couples and groups. My experience has stemmed from a variety of settings including domestic violence shelters, psychiatric units, juvenile detention centers, college campuses and private practice.
(616) 208-5913 View (616) 208-5913
Photo of Susan Van Wyngarden, MA, LPC, Counselor
Susan Van Wyngarden
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
I love working with a client earnestly seeking life change. We pursue self reflection and cognitive restructuring.while probing the roots of a client's faith. I have also found that my life experience, which includes a 32-year marriage and the raising of 3 young adults now heading out into the world, provides a rich source of good counsel. My style is characterized by a personal approach that is warm and supportive with a holistic focus and my sincere hope for all my clients is a personal awareness that brings the emotional and mental stability that leads to positive behaviors.
I love working with a client earnestly seeking life change. We pursue self reflection and cognitive restructuring.while probing the roots of a client's faith. I have also found that my life experience, which includes a 32-year marriage and the raising of 3 young adults now heading out into the world, provides a rich source of good counsel. My style is characterized by a personal approach that is warm and supportive with a holistic focus and my sincere hope for all my clients is a personal awareness that brings the emotional and mental stability that leads to positive behaviors.
(616) 871-2436 View (616) 871-2436
Photo of Kelly Teahan, MSW, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Teahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423  (Online Only)
I have experience that can help you as you navigate college pressures, transitions, and career paths. I enjoy working with middle, high school, and college students. Often my clients are working through life changes and transitions and they want to better their relationships. I specialize working with clients who have mood disorders, trauma, learning disabilities, and developmental disabilities. Many clients identify on the LGBTQ+ spectrum and are working on finding who they are. I am a current school social worker that works with students of all walks of life.
I have experience that can help you as you navigate college pressures, transitions, and career paths. I enjoy working with middle, high school, and college students. Often my clients are working through life changes and transitions and they want to better their relationships. I specialize working with clients who have mood disorders, trauma, learning disabilities, and developmental disabilities. Many clients identify on the LGBTQ+ spectrum and are working on finding who they are. I am a current school social worker that works with students of all walks of life.
(616) 779-8899 View (616) 779-8899
Photo of Jeffrey Konfara - Konfara Counseling and Supervision, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Konfara Counseling and Supervision
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
People enter into a counseling relationship when nothing else seems to be working. Although most people soon make comments such as, “(Counseling) was a lot better than I thought it would be”, few people seek counseling as a first option. More often we seek out techniques that either help us to temporarily avoid (e.g., media, social networking) our anxiety, or we seek temporary shots of pleasure (e.g., alcohol, food, pornography) that make us feel good for a short time. Soon enough we realize that all of these things leave us feeling more hollow and lonely, and that is when we start thinking about counseling.
People enter into a counseling relationship when nothing else seems to be working. Although most people soon make comments such as, “(Counseling) was a lot better than I thought it would be”, few people seek counseling as a first option. More often we seek out techniques that either help us to temporarily avoid (e.g., media, social networking) our anxiety, or we seek temporary shots of pleasure (e.g., alcohol, food, pornography) that make us feel good for a short time. Soon enough we realize that all of these things leave us feeling more hollow and lonely, and that is when we start thinking about counseling.
(616) 310-4614 View (616) 310-4614
Photo of Theresa Ortiz Butler - Turtle Path Counseling PLLC - Theresa Butler, LMSW, LCSW, LMSW, IMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Turtle Path Counseling PLLC - Theresa Butler, LMSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, IMHP
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
Exhaustion and stress can often impact your mood and ability to manage expectations and responsibilities. At Turtle Path, you will have the chance to unpack struggles and concerns with a seasoned professional who goes beyond traditional methods to address emotional, psychological and relational concerns. Turtle Path is a relaxed therapy environment that is welcoming and inclusive; a place where you can slow down to process your thoughts, feelings, and life situations toward healing and growth.
Exhaustion and stress can often impact your mood and ability to manage expectations and responsibilities. At Turtle Path, you will have the chance to unpack struggles and concerns with a seasoned professional who goes beyond traditional methods to address emotional, psychological and relational concerns. Turtle Path is a relaxed therapy environment that is welcoming and inclusive; a place where you can slow down to process your thoughts, feelings, and life situations toward healing and growth.
(616) 300-2846 View (616) 300-2846
Photo of Lisa Benavides, MA, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Benavides
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
For over 20 years I have been involved in the mental health system and have had the privilege of helping individuals & families achieve their goals and overcome a variety of challenges (i.e. depression, anxiety, mood disorders, new transitions, relational, & substance abuse struggles). While speaking both English & Spanish languages, my hope is that each individual that I encounter will gain a better understanding of themselves, and also learn valuable skills to move forward towards a more fulfilling and flourishing life---to be able to find 'Peace of Mind'--within themselves and within their surroundings.
For over 20 years I have been involved in the mental health system and have had the privilege of helping individuals & families achieve their goals and overcome a variety of challenges (i.e. depression, anxiety, mood disorders, new transitions, relational, & substance abuse struggles). While speaking both English & Spanish languages, my hope is that each individual that I encounter will gain a better understanding of themselves, and also learn valuable skills to move forward towards a more fulfilling and flourishing life---to be able to find 'Peace of Mind'--within themselves and within their surroundings.
(616) 205-9759 View (616) 205-9759
Photo of Lennis Baggech, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Lennis Baggech
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
I've been in practice 25 yrs - with individuals/couples & families -- kids 6+, many teens, college students & adults. I'm shamelessly informal -- no ties or pressed shirts here!. The office is quite unique - - very large, ultra comfy, w/MANY natural oddities... slightly chaotic -- like life! Good strong coffee/tea/soda & munchies always available. Pets welcome. I'm adopted myself, a licensed foster parent, & work with trauma and attachment. I have a multi-cultural family & lived abroad (Africa). I do co-parenting therapy & am also very familiar w/court systems, working with Dr.'s, lawyers, schools and custody issues.
I've been in practice 25 yrs - with individuals/couples & families -- kids 6+, many teens, college students & adults. I'm shamelessly informal -- no ties or pressed shirts here!. The office is quite unique - - very large, ultra comfy, w/MANY natural oddities... slightly chaotic -- like life! Good strong coffee/tea/soda & munchies always available. Pets welcome. I'm adopted myself, a licensed foster parent, & work with trauma and attachment. I have a multi-cultural family & lived abroad (Africa). I do co-parenting therapy & am also very familiar w/court systems, working with Dr.'s, lawyers, schools and custody issues.
(616) 504-2403 View (616) 504-2403
Photo of Char Houben, PhD, LP, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Char Houben
Psychologist, PhD, LP, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49424
As relational beings, we are instinctively wired for connection. It is within the context of relationship that we discover our potential for transformative change. Therapy is a collaborative process of uncovering this potential by cultivating a deep, trusting relationship. I believe it's imperative to provide therapy that goes beyond merely treating symptoms. This is why I take a depth-oriented approach in order for us to discover the root causes & work through barriers. I also believe in the importance of honoring the developmental, biological, sociocultural, and interpersonal parts of yourself to assist in the healing process.
As relational beings, we are instinctively wired for connection. It is within the context of relationship that we discover our potential for transformative change. Therapy is a collaborative process of uncovering this potential by cultivating a deep, trusting relationship. I believe it's imperative to provide therapy that goes beyond merely treating symptoms. This is why I take a depth-oriented approach in order for us to discover the root causes & work through barriers. I also believe in the importance of honoring the developmental, biological, sociocultural, and interpersonal parts of yourself to assist in the healing process.
(616) 404-4575 View (616) 404-4575
Photo of Hasina Bankston, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hasina Bankston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49422
It's my passion to empower individuals to improve their overall physical, mental, and emotional well-being. My goal is to meet people where they are and to provide a non-judgmental, culturally sensitive, and compassionate approach to everyone I encounter. My approach focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship and creating a safe space for clients.
It's my passion to empower individuals to improve their overall physical, mental, and emotional well-being. My goal is to meet people where they are and to provide a non-judgmental, culturally sensitive, and compassionate approach to everyone I encounter. My approach focuses on building a strong therapeutic relationship and creating a safe space for clients.
(616) 319-4224 View (616) 319-4224
Photo of Maribel Xiomara Diaz Munoz LaForge - Bilingual, MS, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maribel Xiomara Diaz Munoz LaForge - Bilingual
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423  (Online Only)
BILINGUAL - My cultural background has been a major inspiration in my efforts to guide and empower ethnically diverse people through effective counseling by offering services in both English and Spanish. My comprehensive approach to mental health seeks to deliver holistic, individualized guidance based on the needs of my clients through the implementation of various therapies best suited for their lifestyles: group, individual, interpersonal, family therapy, and more.
BILINGUAL - My cultural background has been a major inspiration in my efforts to guide and empower ethnically diverse people through effective counseling by offering services in both English and Spanish. My comprehensive approach to mental health seeks to deliver holistic, individualized guidance based on the needs of my clients through the implementation of various therapies best suited for their lifestyles: group, individual, interpersonal, family therapy, and more.
(269) 241-3653 View (269) 241-3653
Photo of Michelle Sheridan - Time For A Change Therapy, LLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Time For A Change Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
Not accepting new clients
Hi. I'm Michelle Sheridan. I have over 27 yrs. of experience helping couples & individuals through difficult times, transitions & struggles both past & present. I'd like to help you, if you feel it's "Time For A Change"! Is anger, resentment, frustration, depression or overall unhappiness an issue? There's no time like the present to look at what choices you've made in the past & how your past may be affecting today & your future. Learning to communicate in a productive way, finding your voice and control your emotions can help change your future. Let's identify problem areas, understanding yourself and others better.
Hi. I'm Michelle Sheridan. I have over 27 yrs. of experience helping couples & individuals through difficult times, transitions & struggles both past & present. I'd like to help you, if you feel it's "Time For A Change"! Is anger, resentment, frustration, depression or overall unhappiness an issue? There's no time like the present to look at what choices you've made in the past & how your past may be affecting today & your future. Learning to communicate in a productive way, finding your voice and control your emotions can help change your future. Let's identify problem areas, understanding yourself and others better.
(616) 202-5257 View (616) 202-5257

Online Therapists

Photo of Sherri Nash - S.C. Nash Counseling & Consulting , Licensed Professional Counselor
S.C. Nash Counseling & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49007  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing anxiety, low moods, self-destructive behaviors, increased stress? Are you isolated, frozen in past or present trauma, or grief-impaired? Do you find yourself people-pleasing, and in a cycle of self-erasure? Often, it can be challenging to connect with a therapist who truly comprehends the intricate facets of your identity as a Black & Brown person, member of the LGBTQIA+ community, or advocate. We bridge the gap between marginalized communities and the therapists best equipped to guide healing. We invite you to lean into your journey toward growth and healing by taking the first step & scheduling with us.
Are you experiencing anxiety, low moods, self-destructive behaviors, increased stress? Are you isolated, frozen in past or present trauma, or grief-impaired? Do you find yourself people-pleasing, and in a cycle of self-erasure? Often, it can be challenging to connect with a therapist who truly comprehends the intricate facets of your identity as a Black & Brown person, member of the LGBTQIA+ community, or advocate. We bridge the gap between marginalized communities and the therapists best equipped to guide healing. We invite you to lean into your journey toward growth and healing by taking the first step & scheduling with us.
(734) 548-9994 View (734) 548-9994
Photo of Dwayne Anthony Johnson, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dwayne Anthony Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
I am an African American male.
Throughout my journey on becoming a therapist I would always get ask the same question. what made me want to become a therapist? The more I learned about myself and who I wanted to become, the answer became more and more clear. As a therapist my goal is too always make clients leave my sessions wanting to become the best versions of themselves. Imagine being in a race and the finish line is everything you want out of yourself. On this journey you will be challenged with plenty of obstacles that will prevent you to getting to that finish line. I want all my clients to overcome these obstacles to get to that goal they want to be.
I am an African American male.
Throughout my journey on becoming a therapist I would always get ask the same question. what made me want to become a therapist? The more I learned about myself and who I wanted to become, the answer became more and more clear. As a therapist my goal is too always make clients leave my sessions wanting to become the best versions of themselves. Imagine being in a race and the finish line is everything you want out of yourself. On this journey you will be challenged with plenty of obstacles that will prevent you to getting to that finish line. I want all my clients to overcome these obstacles to get to that goal they want to be.
(616) 585-0313 View (616) 585-0313
Photo of Dwane Deshawn Dabney, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dwane Deshawn Dabney
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
As a Black man and Army vet, I specialize in working with BIPOC, African American, Black, and military/veteran clients.
Every client comes with their own unique stories and needs. Some clients may need a soundboard, or a safe space to explore their thoughts and emotions without judgment. Others may need help dealing with personal problems that negatively impact their daily lives. I am excited to hear your story and work together to continue writing it!
As a Black man and Army vet, I specialize in working with BIPOC, African American, Black, and military/veteran clients.
Every client comes with their own unique stories and needs. Some clients may need a soundboard, or a safe space to explore their thoughts and emotions without judgment. Others may need help dealing with personal problems that negatively impact their daily lives. I am excited to hear your story and work together to continue writing it!
(269) 399-5077 View (269) 399-5077
Photo of Jerry Parker Jr., LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jerry Parker Jr.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Lansing, MI 48823  (Online Only)
He is committed to the empowerment of individuals from all walks of life, but he is particularly passionate about serving BIPOC ( Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) at any age.
He is highly skilled in assisting individuals with establishing healthy boundaries, resolving relationship issues (including couples counseling and sex therapy), achieving personal goals, managing stress, alleviating anxiety, coping with depression and trauma, regulating emotions, improving interpersonal skills, practicing mindfulness, developing emotional intelligence, enhancing self-esteem, encouraging self-care and self-compassion, addressing emotional codependency, managing body dysmorphia, controlling anger, fostering a positive self-image, and providing support during times of grief.
He is committed to the empowerment of individuals from all walks of life, but he is particularly passionate about serving BIPOC ( Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) at any age.
He is highly skilled in assisting individuals with establishing healthy boundaries, resolving relationship issues (including couples counseling and sex therapy), achieving personal goals, managing stress, alleviating anxiety, coping with depression and trauma, regulating emotions, improving interpersonal skills, practicing mindfulness, developing emotional intelligence, enhancing self-esteem, encouraging self-care and self-compassion, addressing emotional codependency, managing body dysmorphia, controlling anger, fostering a positive self-image, and providing support during times of grief.
(517) 715-8299 View (517) 715-8299
Photo of Jaedah Clark, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaedah Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I am passionate about serving Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.
There are two things that I have learned about therapy over the years as both a client and a therapist: 1) Therapy takes “work”! This “work” looks different for folxs because we are on our unique journeys- this is okay! 2) Healing is not linear. Meaning, you may experience a range of feelings, thoughts, and reactions on your healing journey- this is okay! Whether you are interested in delving deeper into yourself, exploring past and present experiences, just want to talk, etc., I am here to support you along the way.
I am passionate about serving Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.
There are two things that I have learned about therapy over the years as both a client and a therapist: 1) Therapy takes “work”! This “work” looks different for folxs because we are on our unique journeys- this is okay! 2) Healing is not linear. Meaning, you may experience a range of feelings, thoughts, and reactions on your healing journey- this is okay! Whether you are interested in delving deeper into yourself, exploring past and present experiences, just want to talk, etc., I am here to support you along the way.
(616) 310-5009 View (616) 310-5009
Photo of David T Thomas, MA, LPC, Counselor
David T Thomas
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
A trusting and confidential relationship is the foundation for therapy, reducing emotional pain, increasing motivation for change and developing strengths. Through talk therapy we identify values, become aligned with those values as a guide towards health and move from isolation to connection. My style of counseling is centered in being, becoming, belonging and creating a safe space to discover using evidence-based practices. Our mission is wellbeing with a particular emphasis on the unique experience of Black American Men and becoming better for ourselves and our families.
A trusting and confidential relationship is the foundation for therapy, reducing emotional pain, increasing motivation for change and developing strengths. Through talk therapy we identify values, become aligned with those values as a guide towards health and move from isolation to connection. My style of counseling is centered in being, becoming, belonging and creating a safe space to discover using evidence-based practices. Our mission is wellbeing with a particular emphasis on the unique experience of Black American Men and becoming better for ourselves and our families.
(269) 230-9948 View (269) 230-9948
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.