Black and African American Therapists in Bedford, TX
![Photo of Joseph Ewegbeje, DPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56c586b4-3b80-43ed-bd3c-5d37319f2b60/3/320x400.jpeg)
Joseph Ewegbeje
Licensed Professional Counselor, DPC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021
Sometimes, life happens, and we experience heartaches, anxieties, broken promises, betrayals, conflicts, disillusionment or we feel alone and abandoned. At such times, we need someone we can trust with our deepest fears and concerns; someone to listen to us with respect, someone to lean on for clarity, guidance, and support in a way that strengthens us and improve our sense of purpose. It is scary enough reaching out to a counselor, but even more frightening is the challenge of finding the right counselor to trust with your concerns.
Sometimes, life happens, and we experience heartaches, anxieties, broken promises, betrayals, conflicts, disillusionment or we feel alone and abandoned. At such times, we need someone we can trust with our deepest fears and concerns; someone to listen to us with respect, someone to lean on for clarity, guidance, and support in a way that strengthens us and improve our sense of purpose. It is scary enough reaching out to a counselor, but even more frightening is the challenge of finding the right counselor to trust with your concerns.
![Photo of Roberta McKnight-Dupas, LCSW, C-ASWCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1662aed-e093-4470-a6a2-3610b25262be/1/320x400.jpeg)
Roberta McKnight-Dupas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-ASWCM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021
Current times can be extremely hard to make sense of and to successfully adjust; which can greatly affect our wellbeing. Let’s work together to discover the skills you need to navigate all that life can throw at you.
Current times can be extremely hard to make sense of and to successfully adjust; which can greatly affect our wellbeing. Let’s work together to discover the skills you need to navigate all that life can throw at you.
![Photo of Ernest Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81a8d6d1-13cc-4823-ad6b-e6a499503ed8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for considering me to be a part of your mental health journey. I offer a unique blend of expertise in various therapeutic modalities, connecting with clients from diverse backgrounds. Specializing in solution-focused therapy, I guide individuals toward positive outcomes by building on their strengths. I'm also skilled in person-centered therapy, fostering a trusting, empathetic relationship to promote growth. Additionally, my experience in CBT and DBT equips clients with effective coping strategies and improved interpersonal skills. As a LCDC Intern, I provide compassionate support for addiction recovery.
Thank you for considering me to be a part of your mental health journey. I offer a unique blend of expertise in various therapeutic modalities, connecting with clients from diverse backgrounds. Specializing in solution-focused therapy, I guide individuals toward positive outcomes by building on their strengths. I'm also skilled in person-centered therapy, fostering a trusting, empathetic relationship to promote growth. Additionally, my experience in CBT and DBT equips clients with effective coping strategies and improved interpersonal skills. As a LCDC Intern, I provide compassionate support for addiction recovery.
![Photo of Dr. La'Boris Cole, PhD, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b01c1d12-4c6c-499e-bc22-8a2536688d06/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. La'Boris Cole
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021
I am passionate about serving those who are in need of hope, love, joy, peace, healing, and empowerment. My main goal is to assist one in reaching personal/professional goals, addressing trauma, and experiencing healing/wholeness in every area of one's life. My specialties are pre-marital, marital, family conflict, addiction, trauma, anger/stress management, and dual diagnosis. As therapist, it is my role to provide a safe, non judgmental atmosphere to ensure you feel valued, worthy, and safe in order to experience restoration and transformation.
I am passionate about serving those who are in need of hope, love, joy, peace, healing, and empowerment. My main goal is to assist one in reaching personal/professional goals, addressing trauma, and experiencing healing/wholeness in every area of one's life. My specialties are pre-marital, marital, family conflict, addiction, trauma, anger/stress management, and dual diagnosis. As therapist, it is my role to provide a safe, non judgmental atmosphere to ensure you feel valued, worthy, and safe in order to experience restoration and transformation.
![Photo of Cynthia Ann Cashman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1282ade9-940f-4ef5-9b19-e493dc13d0c8/1/320x400.png)
Cynthia Ann Cashman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021 (Online Only)
I am passionate about my career as a therapist. After more than 30 years, I know I chose the right profession. Helping others through difficult times and encouraging their growth is my goal. Every client is unique and requires an individual approach to ensure that their therapy goals are met. My personal style provides compassion and care to ensure success.
I am passionate about my career as a therapist. After more than 30 years, I know I chose the right profession. Helping others through difficult times and encouraging their growth is my goal. Every client is unique and requires an individual approach to ensure that their therapy goals are met. My personal style provides compassion and care to ensure success.
![Photo of Sunday Dieke - Family Circle Counseling, DMin, MS LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c9b6331-decb-4d0d-ba9e-8140d15011c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Family Circle Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, MS LMFT
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma from family and relational issues? Does every disagreement in your relationship turn into an escalation and fight? Are you and your partner struggling to get along, much less enjoy your union happily and together? If so, I can help. I'm happily married with four children, but it didn't always start out flourishing. I have had a similar experience, and the principles that saved my marriage and made it thrive can help yours. I have helped several clients from different backgrounds. Call me today for a free 15-minute consultation.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma from family and relational issues? Does every disagreement in your relationship turn into an escalation and fight? Are you and your partner struggling to get along, much less enjoy your union happily and together? If so, I can help. I'm happily married with four children, but it didn't always start out flourishing. I have had a similar experience, and the principles that saved my marriage and made it thrive can help yours. I have helped several clients from different backgrounds. Call me today for a free 15-minute consultation.
![Photo of Whitney L. Scheef - Positive Pathways Counseling And Family Services, MA, LPC, CCPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3df006b1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Positive Pathways Counseling And Family Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCPT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021 (Online Only)
As a professional counselor, I believe in the power of each individual to overcome barriers that prevent their life pathway from taking a more positive direction. I am invested in creating a calm and safe haven where growth and improvement can occur. Using a person-centered approach requires understanding the perspective patients have about issues in their lives to foster open, honest communication within a therapeutic relationship. When people feel comfortable expressing their emotions, an effective counselor is able to gain knowledge of how that person views their problems.
As a professional counselor, I believe in the power of each individual to overcome barriers that prevent their life pathway from taking a more positive direction. I am invested in creating a calm and safe haven where growth and improvement can occur. Using a person-centered approach requires understanding the perspective patients have about issues in their lives to foster open, honest communication within a therapeutic relationship. When people feel comfortable expressing their emotions, an effective counselor is able to gain knowledge of how that person views their problems.
![Photo of Valerie Armstrong - Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d237f4e-a6f6-4088-842d-98f698d89292/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021
As you take this step towards achieving wellness, we are honored to walk with you on your personal journey while providing a safe place, healing, hope, restoration, and quality of care. Specifically, Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas is dedicated to providing quality professional care by specializing in prevention, treatment and diagnosis of emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues. CAACOT provides evidence-based counseling and psychiatric services to children, adolescents, adults and couples.
As you take this step towards achieving wellness, we are honored to walk with you on your personal journey while providing a safe place, healing, hope, restoration, and quality of care. Specifically, Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas is dedicated to providing quality professional care by specializing in prevention, treatment and diagnosis of emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues. CAACOT provides evidence-based counseling and psychiatric services to children, adolescents, adults and couples.
![Photo of Ulizabeth Walker, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ba58d34-5090-41e2-be3b-4c2d68f50027/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ulizabeth Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021
Have you been wondering where your hope has gone to? Life can be turned upside down in a matter of moments and you look in the mirror and don't know who you are anymore. You feel broken and that is okay. My hope is to help you to see that feeling broken is okay and you will not feel shattered forever. I believe a shift in your thought pattern has to take place in order for change to happen. I join empathy and understanding with Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral therapy to help you on that journey.
Have you been wondering where your hope has gone to? Life can be turned upside down in a matter of moments and you look in the mirror and don't know who you are anymore. You feel broken and that is okay. My hope is to help you to see that feeling broken is okay and you will not feel shattered forever. I believe a shift in your thought pattern has to take place in order for change to happen. I join empathy and understanding with Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral therapy to help you on that journey.
![Photo of Francelle Neal, MAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41e88c85-3654-4192-8606-1559bffe25ac/3/320x400.jpeg)
Francelle Neal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021
Society Today can be dealt multiple Life stressors, ranging from Financial, Marital, Relational, issues with employment and or Life in General. Through Therapy, an Individualized Improvement Plan can be devised and implemented to assist individuals with coping and possibly overcoming the issues they are facing. Adolescents and Teens are complicated, and I am eager to assist. Teen groups are available as well as individualized treatment. Two people working together are always better than one. As a therapist I have learned the more input a client contributes to their therapeutic goals the better the outcomes and success possibility.
Society Today can be dealt multiple Life stressors, ranging from Financial, Marital, Relational, issues with employment and or Life in General. Through Therapy, an Individualized Improvement Plan can be devised and implemented to assist individuals with coping and possibly overcoming the issues they are facing. Adolescents and Teens are complicated, and I am eager to assist. Teen groups are available as well as individualized treatment. Two people working together are always better than one. As a therapist I have learned the more input a client contributes to their therapeutic goals the better the outcomes and success possibility.
![Photo of Dr. LaBoris Cole - Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas, PLLC, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a10f2a5-fd5d-4140-8e36-ef9d08fd24ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021
As you take this step towards achieving wellness, we are honored to walk with you on your personal journey while providing a safe place, healing, hope, restoration, and quality of care. Specifically, Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas are dedicated to providing quality professional care by specializing in prevention, treatment and diagnosis of emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues.CAACOT provides evidence-based counseling and psychiatric services to children, adolescents, adults and couples.
As you take this step towards achieving wellness, we are honored to walk with you on your personal journey while providing a safe place, healing, hope, restoration, and quality of care. Specifically, Cole Associates and Counselors of Texas are dedicated to providing quality professional care by specializing in prevention, treatment and diagnosis of emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues.CAACOT provides evidence-based counseling and psychiatric services to children, adolescents, adults and couples.
15 Second Videos
Francine Sedacy
Tyra Fowler
M L Gladney
Aisha Tupiza
Rosine Atidepe
Soneakqua J White
Trish Bertrand
![Photo of Christia Rogers - Bridges To Crossroads Counseling & IOP Care, MEd, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8efcc827-5705-4751-8ea3-7213d9851e38/1/320x400.png)
Bridges To Crossroads Counseling & IOP Care
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021
"The treasure is in the work". (J. Kwik). At Bridges To Crossroads Counseling & IOP Care, our clinicians will identify, address and transform the way you are feeling, thinking and behaving to promote positive emotional health. We will help you to develop strategies to reach your goals of emotional and mental well- being. You can be the difference that you want to see in your life.... Allow us to help you discover that difference.
"The treasure is in the work". (J. Kwik). At Bridges To Crossroads Counseling & IOP Care, our clinicians will identify, address and transform the way you are feeling, thinking and behaving to promote positive emotional health. We will help you to develop strategies to reach your goals of emotional and mental well- being. You can be the difference that you want to see in your life.... Allow us to help you discover that difference.
![Photo of Francine Sedacy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f69e80de-ff72-4818-b947-b8e6c13d5822/1/320x400.jpeg)
Francine Sedacy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling at Southwestern Adventist University while working at the local mental health authority Pecan Valley Centers in Cleburne, TX. I worked as a case manager, LPC-Intern, and an on-call crisis responder. I was trained using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) among many other trainings. I worked at The Johnson County Children's Advocacy Center as a counselor where I was fully trained in Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TFCBT) and Play Therapy. At the advocacy center I worked primarily with youths who suffer from trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Texas. I earned my Master’s degree in Counseling at Southwestern Adventist University while working at the local mental health authority Pecan Valley Centers in Cleburne, TX. I worked as a case manager, LPC-Intern, and an on-call crisis responder. I was trained using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) among many other trainings. I worked at The Johnson County Children's Advocacy Center as a counselor where I was fully trained in Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TFCBT) and Play Therapy. At the advocacy center I worked primarily with youths who suffer from trauma.
![Photo of Arrione Clarke, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f38d3fff-f190-45ee-b150-339cc664952d/2/320x400.png)
Arrione Clarke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021 (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Arrione. Has there ever been a time in your life when you felt disconnected from yourself or from your life’s purpose? Perhaps you were in a hard place where it seemed like dark clouds followed you everywhere you went-and you just couldn’t find inner peace. I have been working with hurting individuals for nearly 10 years, helping them overcome personal challenges and awaken to the calm that internal harmony brings the mind and spirit. I am a multi-state Licensed Clinical Social Worker, holding a master’s degree in Social Work, and a baccalaureate in Psychology from the University of Central Florida.
Hello! I'm Arrione. Has there ever been a time in your life when you felt disconnected from yourself or from your life’s purpose? Perhaps you were in a hard place where it seemed like dark clouds followed you everywhere you went-and you just couldn’t find inner peace. I have been working with hurting individuals for nearly 10 years, helping them overcome personal challenges and awaken to the calm that internal harmony brings the mind and spirit. I am a multi-state Licensed Clinical Social Worker, holding a master’s degree in Social Work, and a baccalaureate in Psychology from the University of Central Florida.
![Photo of Elizabeth Adeseko, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f98cb02e-b071-4ebd-83bc-2ed60952ec3c/1/320x400.png)
Elizabeth Adeseko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021 (Online Only)
I am licensed both as a Clinical Social Worker and a Chemical Dependency Counselor, embarking on my career journey in 2007. My educational path commenced at the University of Wisconsin Green Bay, where I attained a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology & Human Development. Furthering my education, I pursued a Master of Science degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago Graduate School. Beginning my professional pursuits, I initially served as a counselor in the Crisis department at Horizons Mental Health Center. Subsequently, I devoted a decade to assisting individuals of all ages at Community Health Network in Pearland, Texas.
I am licensed both as a Clinical Social Worker and a Chemical Dependency Counselor, embarking on my career journey in 2007. My educational path commenced at the University of Wisconsin Green Bay, where I attained a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology & Human Development. Furthering my education, I pursued a Master of Science degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago Graduate School. Beginning my professional pursuits, I initially served as a counselor in the Crisis department at Horizons Mental Health Center. Subsequently, I devoted a decade to assisting individuals of all ages at Community Health Network in Pearland, Texas.
![Photo of Tyra Fowler, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/515f48db-dba9-47ca-a514-4d604e8600ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tyra Fowler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021
When living during this phase called "Life" we go through many challenges, changes, and life adjustments that we do not expect to experience. We undergo unexpected life experiences that can determine and shape different methods in navigating the world in which we live. The multitude of complex challenges can mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually disrupt our daily lives.
When living during this phase called "Life" we go through many challenges, changes, and life adjustments that we do not expect to experience. We undergo unexpected life experiences that can determine and shape different methods in navigating the world in which we live. The multitude of complex challenges can mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually disrupt our daily lives.
![Photo of Shannon Gooch, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76aa90e2-dd43-4d64-a402-39073483192a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Gooch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021 (Online Only)
My name is Shannon Gooch and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor. I have extensive experience working with adults, families, at risk youth and adolescents. I have earned a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Professional Counseling. My love for working with people and families in crisis has led me to practice as a counselor. My experience as a wife and mother has helped me become more relatable. Working in various practice settings has led me to be detail oriented, forward- thinking, and thorough.
My name is Shannon Gooch and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor. I have extensive experience working with adults, families, at risk youth and adolescents. I have earned a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Professional Counseling. My love for working with people and families in crisis has led me to practice as a counselor. My experience as a wife and mother has helped me become more relatable. Working in various practice settings has led me to be detail oriented, forward- thinking, and thorough.
![Photo of Megan Billups, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96e9c907-e4e9-4e99-8326-75863f9aad73/2/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Billups
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021 (Online Only)
Let ME help YOU unpack... your emotional baggage and lighten your load. As Erykah Badu sings in her powerful song, "Bag Lady," it's time to let go of all those heavy bags you've been carrying and start fresh. My approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, non-judgment, and collaboration. I believe that everyone can heal and grow, and my role as a therapist is to provide a safe and supportive environment to facilitate that process. I have worked with individuals of all ages and all stages of life. I understand that seeking therapy can be a vulnerable and courageous step, and I commend you for taking that first step.
Let ME help YOU unpack... your emotional baggage and lighten your load. As Erykah Badu sings in her powerful song, "Bag Lady," it's time to let go of all those heavy bags you've been carrying and start fresh. My approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, non-judgment, and collaboration. I believe that everyone can heal and grow, and my role as a therapist is to provide a safe and supportive environment to facilitate that process. I have worked with individuals of all ages and all stages of life. I understand that seeking therapy can be a vulnerable and courageous step, and I commend you for taking that first step.
![Photo of Khayah Hodges, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5a29e65-252a-4795-8efe-025f1a8d09d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Khayah Hodges
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021 (Online Only)
Are you currently feeling anxiety and need help processing your emotions? It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you're ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am a licensed therapist with over 5 years of experience. I offer services specializing in trauma therapy, anxiety, depression, stress, and anger management. My therapy style is warm and and interactive. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
Are you currently feeling anxiety and need help processing your emotions? It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you're ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am a licensed therapist with over 5 years of experience. I offer services specializing in trauma therapy, anxiety, depression, stress, and anger management. My therapy style is warm and and interactive. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
![Photo of M L Gladney, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2731646b-643f-4cc9-a30b-688b4835e960/1/320x400.jpeg)
M L Gladney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Bedford, TX 76021 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm M.L. I believe as humans we all want something similar, to feel normal. We want, desire, and try our best to feel like everyone else. Yet, simultaneously we desire to be unique, special, and individualistic. I believe it is necessary to think of humans as puzzle pieces in order to fulfill both. While the pieces share the same geographical space as well as have the same manufacturer, they are unique and serve varying purposes. Do you belong at the top but are content being a side piece? Are you on the bottom when you were meant to be at the center of it all? Let's collaborate and find out where you belong.
Hello, I'm M.L. I believe as humans we all want something similar, to feel normal. We want, desire, and try our best to feel like everyone else. Yet, simultaneously we desire to be unique, special, and individualistic. I believe it is necessary to think of humans as puzzle pieces in order to fulfill both. While the pieces share the same geographical space as well as have the same manufacturer, they are unique and serve varying purposes. Do you belong at the top but are content being a side piece? Are you on the bottom when you were meant to be at the center of it all? Let's collaborate and find out where you belong.
See more therapy options for Bedford
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Bedford
- Arlington
- Colleyville
- Coppell
- DFW
- Euless
- Grand Prairie
- Grapevine
- Hurst
- Irving
- Keller
- North Richland Hills
- Southlake
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.