Black and African American Therapists in Polk County, OR
Rita L Kokkoris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, MBTCOU, CADAII
Verified Verified
Dallas, OR 97338
Currently Not Accepting New Clients - I counsel individuals to assist them in working through life's challenges, whether it be anxiety, depression, trauma or relational and communication concerns. My modalities of treatment include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Person Centered Therapy. These are evidenced based treatments that teach clients mindfulness, regulate emotions, build distress tolerance and interpersonal skills.
Currently Not Accepting New Clients - I counsel individuals to assist them in working through life's challenges, whether it be anxiety, depression, trauma or relational and communication concerns. My modalities of treatment include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Person Centered Therapy. These are evidenced based treatments that teach clients mindfulness, regulate emotions, build distress tolerance and interpersonal skills.
I believe that every person, regardless of diagnosis or past experiences, can lead purposeful and fulfilling lives with the proper support. We do the best with what we have, and too often life presents significant challenges we are forced to adapt to. Sometimes the patterns that were helpful to get through our childhood present major challenges later in life. Our symptoms do not make us abnormal and are not part of a fundamental flaw that needs fixing, they are a normal response to extraordinary circumstances. Problems do not exist within one person but are the result of a person’s context, family patterns, and learned behaviors.
I believe that every person, regardless of diagnosis or past experiences, can lead purposeful and fulfilling lives with the proper support. We do the best with what we have, and too often life presents significant challenges we are forced to adapt to. Sometimes the patterns that were helpful to get through our childhood present major challenges later in life. Our symptoms do not make us abnormal and are not part of a fundamental flaw that needs fixing, they are a normal response to extraordinary circumstances. Problems do not exist within one person but are the result of a person’s context, family patterns, and learned behaviors.
Life experiences have a way of influencing how we see ourselves and others. As a Spiritual Director, I invite people to take a journey towards healing the soul by discovering the presence of the Divine in all life's moments. If you are looking for a safe and open space for that journey, I am happy to companion you. The soul thrives when we discover our true selves. I invite those from various faith backgrounds as well as those who are feeling the 'tug' to know more about this soul work.
Life experiences have a way of influencing how we see ourselves and others. As a Spiritual Director, I invite people to take a journey towards healing the soul by discovering the presence of the Divine in all life's moments. If you are looking for a safe and open space for that journey, I am happy to companion you. The soul thrives when we discover our true selves. I invite those from various faith backgrounds as well as those who are feeling the 'tug' to know more about this soul work.
Alexander P. Brock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monmouth, OR 97361 (Online Only)
I aspire to work with individuals in finding their most authentic self through self-exploration and identity work. I meet my clients where they are in the moment by providing empathy and understanding while also encouraging them to be the truest form of themselves with the inevitable highs and lows that life throws at us. I utilize various different therapeutic approaches to meet the goal of self-growth/evolution including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), existential therapy, and humanistic therapy.
I aspire to work with individuals in finding their most authentic self through self-exploration and identity work. I meet my clients where they are in the moment by providing empathy and understanding while also encouraging them to be the truest form of themselves with the inevitable highs and lows that life throws at us. I utilize various different therapeutic approaches to meet the goal of self-growth/evolution including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), existential therapy, and humanistic therapy.
Rosanne O'Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, OR 97338
Not accepting new clients
It can be difficult at times to ask for help. I'm glad you have taken the first step. I am a therapist with many years experience supporting a diverse population of clients. Most recently I have been working with midlife and seniors experiencing declines in health. Before this I was a children's therapist focusing on children with disabilities, and those who have experienced trauma. I also enjoy working with individuals who have struggled with addiction as their strength is inspiring. I am a former foster/adoptive parent and enjoy supporting all members of the adoption triad. Teens and young adults are also a focus.
It can be difficult at times to ask for help. I'm glad you have taken the first step. I am a therapist with many years experience supporting a diverse population of clients. Most recently I have been working with midlife and seniors experiencing declines in health. Before this I was a children's therapist focusing on children with disabilities, and those who have experienced trauma. I also enjoy working with individuals who have struggled with addiction as their strength is inspiring. I am a former foster/adoptive parent and enjoy supporting all members of the adoption triad. Teens and young adults are also a focus.
Online Therapists
Relationship Gardening
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
Couples (any age, race, gender identity) find relief from gridlock arguments, lost connection, or painful broken trust. Walk & Talk or Zoom (CA or OR) w/Shannon Batts, marriage specialist. You want practical how-tos for deeper understanding & validation from your mate, keeping disagreements from getting all wonky, or finding your way through coming out trans? Workshops, retreats, support groups outside. Visit Relationship Gardening website for marriage help gift. Many clients also are health professionals. Black American couples' Resource Redirection available. Need fees reduced? Call or email today!
Couples (any age, race, gender identity) find relief from gridlock arguments, lost connection, or painful broken trust. Walk & Talk or Zoom (CA or OR) w/Shannon Batts, marriage specialist. You want practical how-tos for deeper understanding & validation from your mate, keeping disagreements from getting all wonky, or finding your way through coming out trans? Workshops, retreats, support groups outside. Visit Relationship Gardening website for marriage help gift. Many clients also are health professionals. Black American couples' Resource Redirection available. Need fees reduced? Call or email today!
Torrey Thille
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213 (Online Only)
Focusing on supporting black and brown adolescents, youth adults and families navigate life obstacles while learning and developing skills to increase whole body wellness. I aim to provide an empowering environment for self-discovery, healing, and growth so that you can evolve and thrive. Do you want to process life experiences, unresolved issues, including trauma, grief, loss, illness? Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, or other unwanted emotions?
Focusing on supporting black and brown adolescents, youth adults and families navigate life obstacles while learning and developing skills to increase whole body wellness. I aim to provide an empowering environment for self-discovery, healing, and growth so that you can evolve and thrive. Do you want to process life experiences, unresolved issues, including trauma, grief, loss, illness? Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, or other unwanted emotions?
Becoming Therapy Services, LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97236 (Online Only)
As a Black woman, I empathize with the hesitancy and anxiety that can come with seeking out mental health support.
Hi I'm April, a Black therapist based in Oregon. I specialize in working with Black women and women of color, 18+, impacted by trauma. Clients I work with may find themselves feeling invalidated, isolated, or at a loss with how to move forward from difficult experiences. Maybe work, relationships, or recent transitions are increasing feelings of anxiety or depression? If any of the above is resonating with you, we may be a good fit.
As a Black woman, I empathize with the hesitancy and anxiety that can come with seeking out mental health support.
Hi I'm April, a Black therapist based in Oregon. I specialize in working with Black women and women of color, 18+, impacted by trauma. Clients I work with may find themselves feeling invalidated, isolated, or at a loss with how to move forward from difficult experiences. Maybe work, relationships, or recent transitions are increasing feelings of anxiety or depression? If any of the above is resonating with you, we may be a good fit.
Virago Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CST, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97216 (Online Only)
Are you a Millennial or Black/POC high-achieving woman, grappling with self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism? Do you face added layers of societal expectations and microaggressions, like being overlooked in professional settings or misunderstood in social interactions, which make it harder for you to speak up or seek help. It's tough feeling like you constantly have to prove yourself, both professionally and personally. Perhaps you’ve reached a breaking point where the emotional toll is affecting your health, career and relationships, prompting you to seek therapy.
Are you a Millennial or Black/POC high-achieving woman, grappling with self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism? Do you face added layers of societal expectations and microaggressions, like being overlooked in professional settings or misunderstood in social interactions, which make it harder for you to speak up or seek help. It's tough feeling like you constantly have to prove yourself, both professionally and personally. Perhaps you’ve reached a breaking point where the emotional toll is affecting your health, career and relationships, prompting you to seek therapy.
Black On The Couch, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97227 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds, particularly Black and African American clients.
Greetings! I am Vyshika M. Willis, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to fostering healing and growth, with a deep commitment to providing compassionate and culturally sensitive counseling. I understand the significance of finding a safe, inclusive, and understanding space to freely explore your thoughts and emotions. Drawing from systems theory, I help clients uncover patterns, dynamics, and interconnections within their lives. This approach empowers clients to make meaningful changes that extend beyond the therapy room.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds, particularly Black and African American clients.
Greetings! I am Vyshika M. Willis, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to fostering healing and growth, with a deep commitment to providing compassionate and culturally sensitive counseling. I understand the significance of finding a safe, inclusive, and understanding space to freely explore your thoughts and emotions. Drawing from systems theory, I help clients uncover patterns, dynamics, and interconnections within their lives. This approach empowers clients to make meaningful changes that extend beyond the therapy room.
Congruent Therapy: Brynn Shaver
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214 (Online Only)
The people I love working with are adults from minority populations, including LGBTQIA+, African American, Hispanic, and other underserved communities, who are seeking to enhance their resilience during challenging life phases.
Greetings! I'm Brynn Shaver, a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, originally hailing from Asheville, North Carolina, now nestled in the beautiful landscapes of Bend, Oregon. My professional journey has been deeply influenced by my own experiences with eating disorders, religious trauma, relationship trauma, and a journey of identity exploration. These experiences have shaped my understanding of the complexities of the human experience and have motivated me to pursue a career in therapy. Through my personal struggles and identity exploration, I've gained invaluable insights into the challenges individuals face.
The people I love working with are adults from minority populations, including LGBTQIA+, African American, Hispanic, and other underserved communities, who are seeking to enhance their resilience during challenging life phases.
Greetings! I'm Brynn Shaver, a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, originally hailing from Asheville, North Carolina, now nestled in the beautiful landscapes of Bend, Oregon. My professional journey has been deeply influenced by my own experiences with eating disorders, religious trauma, relationship trauma, and a journey of identity exploration. These experiences have shaped my understanding of the complexities of the human experience and have motivated me to pursue a career in therapy. Through my personal struggles and identity exploration, I've gained invaluable insights into the challenges individuals face.
Latisha Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I serve people from all cultural backgrounds; however, specialize in DBT and culturally-specific services that promote trauma-informed care to the African American/BIPOC community in need of support with identity development and skills training to help manage every day life challenges.
Hello, I’m Latisha! I am a licensed professional counselor based in Oregon dedicated to helping individuals regain balance and clarity in their lives through education, counseling, and skills training. I earned my masters degree in community counseling (winter of 2010) to help gather tools and increase insight on mental health issues, so that I can help individuals cultivate self-care, increase their self-efficacy, and sustain their overall mental well-being. I have 13+ years experience working with clients with various issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, racial fatigue, and trauma.
I serve people from all cultural backgrounds; however, specialize in DBT and culturally-specific services that promote trauma-informed care to the African American/BIPOC community in need of support with identity development and skills training to help manage every day life challenges.
Hello, I’m Latisha! I am a licensed professional counselor based in Oregon dedicated to helping individuals regain balance and clarity in their lives through education, counseling, and skills training. I earned my masters degree in community counseling (winter of 2010) to help gather tools and increase insight on mental health issues, so that I can help individuals cultivate self-care, increase their self-efficacy, and sustain their overall mental well-being. I have 13+ years experience working with clients with various issues including anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, racial fatigue, and trauma.
Dr. Reiko Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I provide mental health therapy and counseling support to individuals who may be struggling with self-confidence, self-esteem, job and career stress, personal and family obstacles and other issues impacting peace and well-being. I am experienced working with individuals and families struggling with the demands of work, school, extra-curricular and balancing life as an individual, a couple and as a member of a family system. As a Black woman, I care strongly about helping people of color with navigating spaces in which they feel isolated or ignored particularly because of their racial, ethnic, cultural, gender, sexual identity.
I provide mental health therapy and counseling support to individuals who may be struggling with self-confidence, self-esteem, job and career stress, personal and family obstacles and other issues impacting peace and well-being. I am experienced working with individuals and families struggling with the demands of work, school, extra-curricular and balancing life as an individual, a couple and as a member of a family system. As a Black woman, I care strongly about helping people of color with navigating spaces in which they feel isolated or ignored particularly because of their racial, ethnic, cultural, gender, sexual identity.
I am particularly passionate about formulating alliances that will inform and strengthen Black men and women on their individual and collective journey through this Diaspora in the 21 Century.
“Therapy Is Not a Bad Word!” My mission is to form an alliance that will inspire, educate, and equip you to not only survive during these unprecedented and uncertain times - but to also thrive. My objective is to provide insightful information on relevant areas of concern; particularly to people of color struggling with depression and anxiety directly or vicariously due to systemic racism & social injustices. Together we will formulate strategies to combat addiction, low self-esteem/self-worth, continuous relapse, physical, mental/emotional, social, & spiritual healing.
I am particularly passionate about formulating alliances that will inform and strengthen Black men and women on their individual and collective journey through this Diaspora in the 21 Century.
“Therapy Is Not a Bad Word!” My mission is to form an alliance that will inspire, educate, and equip you to not only survive during these unprecedented and uncertain times - but to also thrive. My objective is to provide insightful information on relevant areas of concern; particularly to people of color struggling with depression and anxiety directly or vicariously due to systemic racism & social injustices. Together we will formulate strategies to combat addiction, low self-esteem/self-worth, continuous relapse, physical, mental/emotional, social, & spiritual healing.
Andrea Rosemarie Redeau
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I help leaders overcome self-doubt, reject negative anti- Black messages, and protect their emotional health while advancing their careers.
I specialize in supporting BIPOC millennial leaders who have relocated to OR for career advancement and are struggling to navigate a predominately white work. I also assist adult transracial adoptees and their caregivers in navigating the complex emotions of cross adoption. I have helped corporate Attorneys & Executives in carefully assessing whether their problem drinking truly qualifies as a significant issue, if the ultimatum from their significant other is genuinely warranted, and how they can successfully navigate finding a harmonious balance between socializing over drinks with co-workers and dedicating quality time to family.
I help leaders overcome self-doubt, reject negative anti- Black messages, and protect their emotional health while advancing their careers.
I specialize in supporting BIPOC millennial leaders who have relocated to OR for career advancement and are struggling to navigate a predominately white work. I also assist adult transracial adoptees and their caregivers in navigating the complex emotions of cross adoption. I have helped corporate Attorneys & Executives in carefully assessing whether their problem drinking truly qualifies as a significant issue, if the ultimatum from their significant other is genuinely warranted, and how they can successfully navigate finding a harmonious balance between socializing over drinks with co-workers and dedicating quality time to family.
Ceshaun Hankins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
As a Black biracial woman I understand the impact of lived experience on our healing.
You're looking to be understood in your experience. You struggle with questioning if you are the issue or if it's the world around you. You live and work in high-stress and demanding environments where you're underrepresented. You've begun to realize your old ways of coping aren't working the same anymore. You may have even tried standard talk therapy in the past - and while helpful - you still find yourself troubled by disturbing experiences or memories.
As a Black biracial woman I understand the impact of lived experience on our healing.
You're looking to be understood in your experience. You struggle with questioning if you are the issue or if it's the world around you. You live and work in high-stress and demanding environments where you're underrepresented. You've begun to realize your old ways of coping aren't working the same anymore. You may have even tried standard talk therapy in the past - and while helpful - you still find yourself troubled by disturbing experiences or memories.
Our clients identify as Black/ African-American, Asian, Caucasian, Multiracial, BIPOC, Middle Eastern, Hispanic/Latino.
On the outside, it seems like you have it all together, but inside, you feel stressed and overwhelmed. You've heard that bottling up emotions isn't healthy, but what else can you do? Your to-do list is endless, and so many people depend on you. Your own needs always take a back seat and when you try to set boundaries, you end up feeling guilty, anxious, or depressed. Sometimes you wonder what you truly want, but you're so disconnected from yourself that it's hard to know. You thought you'd feel more in control of your life by now and worry that something's wrong because you don't. Deep down, you fear you might not measure up.
Our clients identify as Black/ African-American, Asian, Caucasian, Multiracial, BIPOC, Middle Eastern, Hispanic/Latino.
On the outside, it seems like you have it all together, but inside, you feel stressed and overwhelmed. You've heard that bottling up emotions isn't healthy, but what else can you do? Your to-do list is endless, and so many people depend on you. Your own needs always take a back seat and when you try to set boundaries, you end up feeling guilty, anxious, or depressed. Sometimes you wonder what you truly want, but you're so disconnected from yourself that it's hard to know. You thought you'd feel more in control of your life by now and worry that something's wrong because you don't. Deep down, you fear you might not measure up.
I'm an African American mental health therapist who was born and raised in Portland, Oregon. As an African American person in Portland Oregon, I acutely recognize the health and safety risks associated with being a black person in a city where African Americans represent approximately 6% of the population.
I'm an African American mental health therapist who was born and raised in Portland, Oregon. As an African American person in Portland Oregon, I acutely recognize the health and safety risks associated with being a black person in a city where African Americans represent approximately 6% of the population.
Francesca L. Barnett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT , CADCIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97203 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a Black, Indigenous, and CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) Therapist, my approach is culturally focused and honors identity.
Are you struggling with feelings of overwhelm, sadness, anger, loss, or relationship difficulties? Sometimes it's hard to pinpoint exactly what you're feeling, you just know it's affecting you deeply and something needs to change. You're not alone, I'm here to support you. My approach is empathetic, empowering and non-judgmental. I believe there's healing in being truly seen & understood. Together, we will navigate through difficult times creating balance and prioritize what matters to you most.
As a Black, Indigenous, and CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) Therapist, my approach is culturally focused and honors identity.
Are you struggling with feelings of overwhelm, sadness, anger, loss, or relationship difficulties? Sometimes it's hard to pinpoint exactly what you're feeling, you just know it's affecting you deeply and something needs to change. You're not alone, I'm here to support you. My approach is empathetic, empowering and non-judgmental. I believe there's healing in being truly seen & understood. Together, we will navigate through difficult times creating balance and prioritize what matters to you most.
Black Therapist & Company. LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005 (Online Only)
Furthermore, we acknowledge as a core belief that we live in a world where Black, Latino/a/e, Indigenous, other people of color and those who identify as LGBTQ+ face discrimination, racism, micro-aggressions and are treated as others, which leads to marginalization.
Black Therapist & Company LLC was founded by Dr. Rosemarie Hemmings who has over 30 years of clinical social work experience and is also a public health practitioner. She identifies as Black and brings her lived experiences as a Black woman to all that she does. Her lived experiences and 30 years of expertise is reflected both in the service population that she prioritizes and her approach. When working with our clients, we take an intersectional approach that honors their lived experiences without judgment and we partner with our clients in co-developing services/goals in alignment with their personal values and cultural practices
Furthermore, we acknowledge as a core belief that we live in a world where Black, Latino/a/e, Indigenous, other people of color and those who identify as LGBTQ+ face discrimination, racism, micro-aggressions and are treated as others, which leads to marginalization.
Black Therapist & Company LLC was founded by Dr. Rosemarie Hemmings who has over 30 years of clinical social work experience and is also a public health practitioner. She identifies as Black and brings her lived experiences as a Black woman to all that she does. Her lived experiences and 30 years of expertise is reflected both in the service population that she prioritizes and her approach. When working with our clients, we take an intersectional approach that honors their lived experiences without judgment and we partner with our clients in co-developing services/goals in alignment with their personal values and cultural practices
See more therapy options for Polk County
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.