Black and African American Therapists in Dallas County, TX

Photo of Rebecca C. Werts, MS, NCC
Rebecca C. Werts
LPC Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping Black/African American individuals, particularly women and adolescent girls, experience wholeness.
I remember when I started my healing journey. Though it came with many twists and turns, it was also the most liberating and powerful decision I could have made for myself. Maybe you're on a journey to healing or maybe you're trying to figure out where to start. If you're just starting to embark on your healing journey, I'm proud of you. Choosing to heal can be such a transformative experience. It is even more meaningful when you choose to navigate that journey in an empowering, safe, and trusted environment. I am passionate and intentional with helping you rediscover your needs, yourself, and your purpose in life.
I am passionate about helping Black/African American individuals, particularly women and adolescent girls, experience wholeness.
I remember when I started my healing journey. Though it came with many twists and turns, it was also the most liberating and powerful decision I could have made for myself. Maybe you're on a journey to healing or maybe you're trying to figure out where to start. If you're just starting to embark on your healing journey, I'm proud of you. Choosing to heal can be such a transformative experience. It is even more meaningful when you choose to navigate that journey in an empowering, safe, and trusted environment. I am passionate and intentional with helping you rediscover your needs, yourself, and your purpose in life.
(972) 736-8850 View (972) 736-8850
Photo of Crystal Luster, MA,, LPC-A
Crystal Luster
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA,, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesquite, TX 75150
As a therapist and African American woman, I cherish and recognize the importance of diversity in the therapeutic process.
I understand that stress and anxiety can feel suffocating, and taking the first step is hard. But growth and comfort cannot coexist. Therapy can help. My work as a therapist is focused on helping women and people of color. Whether it's navigating a new chapter in life, working through relationship issues, boosting self-esteem, overcoming addiction, or healing from childhood trauma, I am here to support you. Many of my clients arrive feeling stuck, anxious or discouraged, and seeking emotional peace. Through talk therapy, I work with my clients to empower them on a path towards emotional wellness.
As a therapist and African American woman, I cherish and recognize the importance of diversity in the therapeutic process.
I understand that stress and anxiety can feel suffocating, and taking the first step is hard. But growth and comfort cannot coexist. Therapy can help. My work as a therapist is focused on helping women and people of color. Whether it's navigating a new chapter in life, working through relationship issues, boosting self-esteem, overcoming addiction, or healing from childhood trauma, I am here to support you. Many of my clients arrive feeling stuck, anxious or discouraged, and seeking emotional peace. Through talk therapy, I work with my clients to empower them on a path towards emotional wellness.
(469) 972-0523 View (469) 972-0523
Photo of Tiana Johnson - MyLyfe Counseling Center, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
MyLyfe Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75214
We empower creatives, business leaders, working parents, IT professionals, high-functioning teens, and athletes to heal and thrive. As a Black-owned therapy private practice, we understand the unique challenges that diverse communities face. Specializing in trauma, work-related stressors, anxiety, and grief, our mission is to provide compassionate and culturally competent care to teens and adults of all ages. We believe that everyone deserves to feel understood and valued.
We empower creatives, business leaders, working parents, IT professionals, high-functioning teens, and athletes to heal and thrive. As a Black-owned therapy private practice, we understand the unique challenges that diverse communities face. Specializing in trauma, work-related stressors, anxiety, and grief, our mission is to provide compassionate and culturally competent care to teens and adults of all ages. We believe that everyone deserves to feel understood and valued.
(469) 382-4008 View (469) 382-4008
Photo of Self-Esteem + Anxiety + Introvert Support At Fitzpatrick Therapy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Self-Esteem + Anxiety + Introvert Support At Fitzpatrick Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75240  (Online Only)
As a black female introvert who has struggled with anxiety and self-esteem, I will meet you where you are and offer you the support you need to find your unique strengths.
You want to appear more outgoing, productive, and like you are “on top of things” but deep down you are struggling to cope with anxiety and low self-esteem. You're someone who enjoys your alone time but still finds yourself wanting to be active and feel included. You want to feel less exhausted and find that too many things going on at once can leave you feeling frazzled. You also may struggle with overanalyzing a past conversation you had or maybe you feel self-critical. You are ready to start feeling some relief, hope, and happiness again. Most of all, you are ready to feel less anxious and stressed. I want to help you get there.
As a black female introvert who has struggled with anxiety and self-esteem, I will meet you where you are and offer you the support you need to find your unique strengths.
You want to appear more outgoing, productive, and like you are “on top of things” but deep down you are struggling to cope with anxiety and low self-esteem. You're someone who enjoys your alone time but still finds yourself wanting to be active and feel included. You want to feel less exhausted and find that too many things going on at once can leave you feeling frazzled. You also may struggle with overanalyzing a past conversation you had or maybe you feel self-critical. You are ready to start feeling some relief, hope, and happiness again. Most of all, you are ready to feel less anxious and stressed. I want to help you get there.
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Photo of Devyn Walker, MS, LPC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Devyn Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208
Do you ever feel like your emotions are so intense that you either blow up or shut down completely? This might make you feel like you’re ‘doing too much,’ even when you seem to have it all together on the outside. If this sounds familiar, it might be time to learn how to manage your emotions instead of letting them manage you—and I can help! I specialize in working with Black women and women of color aged 25-40, helping them navigate life’s challenges. I support women who struggle with managing relationships, emotional dysregulation, intellectualizing their feelings, trusting themselves, & depression, anxiety, ADHD, & trauma.
Do you ever feel like your emotions are so intense that you either blow up or shut down completely? This might make you feel like you’re ‘doing too much,’ even when you seem to have it all together on the outside. If this sounds familiar, it might be time to learn how to manage your emotions instead of letting them manage you—and I can help! I specialize in working with Black women and women of color aged 25-40, helping them navigate life’s challenges. I support women who struggle with managing relationships, emotional dysregulation, intellectualizing their feelings, trusting themselves, & depression, anxiety, ADHD, & trauma.
(469) 263-1563 View (469) 263-1563
Photo of O. Uwuma Felix, PsyD, Psychologist
O. Uwuma Felix
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75211  (Online Only)
I often help women, young adults, and teens that hold Black, immigrant, queer, neurodivergent, or religious identities.
We all go through seasons where we feel bogged down, overwhelmed, and tired. This can leave us feeling misunderstood, unseen, or unheard. Prolonged struggles can affect our sense of self and impact relationships with our family and friends, making it difficult to get unstuck and move forward. In my practice, I partner with you as you navigate the difficulties that life has thrown your way. My training and lived experience helps me to remain informed as we consider your many different parts and the perspectives that come with them. My hope is to create a space where you feel safe to be your whole, authentic self as you heal.
I often help women, young adults, and teens that hold Black, immigrant, queer, neurodivergent, or religious identities.
We all go through seasons where we feel bogged down, overwhelmed, and tired. This can leave us feeling misunderstood, unseen, or unheard. Prolonged struggles can affect our sense of self and impact relationships with our family and friends, making it difficult to get unstuck and move forward. In my practice, I partner with you as you navigate the difficulties that life has thrown your way. My training and lived experience helps me to remain informed as we consider your many different parts and the perspectives that come with them. My hope is to create a space where you feel safe to be your whole, authentic self as you heal.
(469) 425-8956 View (469) 425-8956
Photo of Damani Anderson - The Relationship Clinic - Damani Anderson, LMFT-A
The Relationship Clinic - Damani Anderson
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duncanville, TX 75116
I am a black man, a black father, a ministry leader, a mentor and a listening ear to help.
Have you ever found yourself moving about life, going through the motions but getting nowhere? Has your tank run dry, feeling empty and not understanding where you want to go or what you want to do? Yet, on the other hand, when life is good and you are gaining ground, do you suddenly fear failing and begin to criticize the place you're in, making you give up? If so, come and talk to me! My passion is guiding clients to be a better version of themselves.
I am a black man, a black father, a ministry leader, a mentor and a listening ear to help.
Have you ever found yourself moving about life, going through the motions but getting nowhere? Has your tank run dry, feeling empty and not understanding where you want to go or what you want to do? Yet, on the other hand, when life is good and you are gaining ground, do you suddenly fear failing and begin to criticize the place you're in, making you give up? If so, come and talk to me! My passion is guiding clients to be a better version of themselves.
(214) 937-4415 View (214) 937-4415
Photo of Zephyr L Carson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zephyr L Carson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Duncanville, TX 75116  (Online Only)
Zephyr Carson is a compassionate, Black female therapist who deeply cares about your healing and self-discovery. I understand that seeking therapy is a courageous step during these difficult times of medical, emotional, or life-transitional challenges. With 15 years of therapy experience, I cheer you every step of the way towards your power and greatness.
Zephyr Carson is a compassionate, Black female therapist who deeply cares about your healing and self-discovery. I understand that seeking therapy is a courageous step during these difficult times of medical, emotional, or life-transitional challenges. With 15 years of therapy experience, I cheer you every step of the way towards your power and greatness.
(214) 427-8035 View (214) 427-8035
Photo of Carissa Brown (Supervised By Regina Buchanan Lpc-S)
Carissa Brown (Supervised By Regina Buchanan Lpc-S)
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75240
I enjoy working with individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, Black community, and other marginalized communities, and have no problem with those who are not a part of those communities.
Living on this giant blue marble isn't easy. You learn how to cope then suddenly it stops working. You try to adapt and change, but life keeps throwing problems at you and it's a nightmare keeping all together. It's overwhelming, stressful, and sometimes you just need someone to truly hear you. I hope to provide that space of stillness; that place where you can take a deep breath and say what you really feel without fear of judgement. If that sounds like something you need, feel free to contact me anytime.
I enjoy working with individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, Black community, and other marginalized communities, and have no problem with those who are not a part of those communities.
Living on this giant blue marble isn't easy. You learn how to cope then suddenly it stops working. You try to adapt and change, but life keeps throwing problems at you and it's a nightmare keeping all together. It's overwhelming, stressful, and sometimes you just need someone to truly hear you. I hope to provide that space of stillness; that place where you can take a deep breath and say what you really feel without fear of judgement. If that sounds like something you need, feel free to contact me anytime.
(469) 727-9738 View (469) 727-9738
Photo of Kiandra Daniels, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kiandra Daniels
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75207  (Online Only)
Color Wheel Therapy, PLLC believes that everyone is capable of acquiring necessary change for better lives. Our goal is to provide a safe, empathetic space to open the door for improved lives and empower individuals to strive for autonomy. Color Wheel Therapy, PLLC strives to provide a down-to-earth therapeutic environment to decrease the stigma of mental illness in the Black community and to normalize conversations about mental wellness through a structured, honest, and empathic therapy process. If you are new to therapy, this is just the place to get that comforting experience that you are hoping for!
Color Wheel Therapy, PLLC believes that everyone is capable of acquiring necessary change for better lives. Our goal is to provide a safe, empathetic space to open the door for improved lives and empower individuals to strive for autonomy. Color Wheel Therapy, PLLC strives to provide a down-to-earth therapeutic environment to decrease the stigma of mental illness in the Black community and to normalize conversations about mental wellness through a structured, honest, and empathic therapy process. If you are new to therapy, this is just the place to get that comforting experience that you are hoping for!
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Photo of Vic A Doster - BPOQe, Doster & Hoffman Therapy and Consultation, LCSW, LCDC, LMSW, LCSW-S, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
BPOQe, Doster & Hoffman Therapy and Consultation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC, LMSW, LCSW-S, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75238  (Online Only)
High regards to you as you consider starting the journey of working towards becoming your best self. We are a team of pro-Black, spiritually aware, LGBTQ+ competent and affirming, down to earth therapists. We engage our clients in a holistic and person-centered approach, and value collaboration in the therapy space. Come as you are and we will meet you where you are at. Prioritizing your mental health, or even figuring out what that means can be super daunting. Our goal is to assist you in that process, in whatever way we can within our scope of practice.
High regards to you as you consider starting the journey of working towards becoming your best self. We are a team of pro-Black, spiritually aware, LGBTQ+ competent and affirming, down to earth therapists. We engage our clients in a holistic and person-centered approach, and value collaboration in the therapy space. Come as you are and we will meet you where you are at. Prioritizing your mental health, or even figuring out what that means can be super daunting. Our goal is to assist you in that process, in whatever way we can within our scope of practice.
(469) 306-1531 View (469) 306-1531
Photo of Tory Graham, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tory Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75201  (Online Only)
My personal experiences as a Black man, husband, father, and healer have given me the opportunity to experience the many dynamics of life, good and bad.
Brothers! Yeah, I’m speaking to you, I see you. I know…..I get it. There’s this call to express, change, analyze, grow, and know in order to be best version of yourself possible. All of these become part of the demands we are already under. Come in, let’s build in a space where you get to change the narrative. The most powerful medicine for change is related to the story of who we are and I look forward to working with you to re-define the narrative of self and the world around you in a way that truly self-empowering. To get started click on the website link where you can book your first consult today!
My personal experiences as a Black man, husband, father, and healer have given me the opportunity to experience the many dynamics of life, good and bad.
Brothers! Yeah, I’m speaking to you, I see you. I know…..I get it. There’s this call to express, change, analyze, grow, and know in order to be best version of yourself possible. All of these become part of the demands we are already under. Come in, let’s build in a space where you get to change the narrative. The most powerful medicine for change is related to the story of who we are and I look forward to working with you to re-define the narrative of self and the world around you in a way that truly self-empowering. To get started click on the website link where you can book your first consult today!
(972) 928-0212 View (972) 928-0212
Photo of April K Fich, LMSW
April K Fich
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75232  (Online Only)
Let's face it, life can be tough. Do you find yourself trying to live up to unrealistic expectations in your career, school, at home or in your relationships? As a woman, I understand the internal struggles of trying to be the best at everything and putting our own needs last. As a black woman, I have remained stoic in times of despair to avoid appearing weak and felt undervalued despite working harder than my peers. And as a child of an immigrant, I understand the hopes put on the first generation American to achieve the goals that your parents could only dream of.
Let's face it, life can be tough. Do you find yourself trying to live up to unrealistic expectations in your career, school, at home or in your relationships? As a woman, I understand the internal struggles of trying to be the best at everything and putting our own needs last. As a black woman, I have remained stoic in times of despair to avoid appearing weak and felt undervalued despite working harder than my peers. And as a child of an immigrant, I understand the hopes put on the first generation American to achieve the goals that your parents could only dream of.
(469) 228-8433 View (469) 228-8433
Photo of Christopher Avila, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Avila
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75218
Chris embodies social justice by utilizing an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and intersectional approach in the therapy space. To promote transparency and share how they navigate the world, Chris is Latinx/e biracial, queer, nonbinary/agender, neurodivergent, fat/larger-bodied person. Chris is also in an interracial marriage with their Black husband, and they have one dog together. Chris continues to further their learning and understanding within therapy by centering disabled, queer, transgender, and BIPOC folk in the research they read and the educational materials they engage with.
Chris embodies social justice by utilizing an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and intersectional approach in the therapy space. To promote transparency and share how they navigate the world, Chris is Latinx/e biracial, queer, nonbinary/agender, neurodivergent, fat/larger-bodied person. Chris is also in an interracial marriage with their Black husband, and they have one dog together. Chris continues to further their learning and understanding within therapy by centering disabled, queer, transgender, and BIPOC folk in the research they read and the educational materials they engage with.
(469) 871-5034 View (469) 871-5034
Photo of Malton R Cook, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Malton R Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75247
Seeking Self-Discovery and Change? BIPOC Therapist Here to Help Are you a Millennial, Individual of Color, or member of the LGBTQIA+ community facing life challenges? I'm Malton Cook, LPC-S, a therapist specializing in helping individuals navigate adjustment issues, life transitions, depression, anxiety, anger management, and mood disorders. I understand the unique experiences and challenges faced by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities and create a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals.
Seeking Self-Discovery and Change? BIPOC Therapist Here to Help Are you a Millennial, Individual of Color, or member of the LGBTQIA+ community facing life challenges? I'm Malton Cook, LPC-S, a therapist specializing in helping individuals navigate adjustment issues, life transitions, depression, anxiety, anger management, and mood disorders. I understand the unique experiences and challenges faced by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities and create a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals.
(817) 775-2107 View (817) 775-2107
Photo of Vadeisha Williams, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vadeisha Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Irving, TX 75062  (Online Only)
Ready for change? Life too stressful? Feeling stuck? Recent breakup? Difficulty balancing home & work? Struggling with managing emotions? Navigating a career shift? You are not alone. Any change can be overwhelming, but there's strength in seeking support and guidance. I'm Vadeisha, a committed Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving Texas & Louisiana, and I specialize in empowering black women through pivotal life changes. I wholeheartedly embrace the individual experiences and cultural nuances that shape my clients' lives.
Ready for change? Life too stressful? Feeling stuck? Recent breakup? Difficulty balancing home & work? Struggling with managing emotions? Navigating a career shift? You are not alone. Any change can be overwhelming, but there's strength in seeking support and guidance. I'm Vadeisha, a committed Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving Texas & Louisiana, and I specialize in empowering black women through pivotal life changes. I wholeheartedly embrace the individual experiences and cultural nuances that shape my clients' lives.
(214) 307-9606 View (214) 307-9606
Photo of Khiara Mills, LPC, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Khiara Mills
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75244
As a black young individual or person of color, finding a safe space for therapy can be quite difficult.
Facing anxiety, stress or life changes? You're not alone. I specialize in empowering teens and adults within the African American, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities to effectively manage anxiety, reduce overthinking and navigate life transitions. With a focus on self-awareness, I'll equip you with tools to understand your emotions, challenge irrational thoughts, and embrace changes with confidence. As a former school therapist, I offer personalized support to nurture your growth. Whether you're an adult seeking clarity or a parent concerned about your teen's behavior, rest assured, I'm here to help you navigate through life's challenges.
As a black young individual or person of color, finding a safe space for therapy can be quite difficult.
Facing anxiety, stress or life changes? You're not alone. I specialize in empowering teens and adults within the African American, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities to effectively manage anxiety, reduce overthinking and navigate life transitions. With a focus on self-awareness, I'll equip you with tools to understand your emotions, challenge irrational thoughts, and embrace changes with confidence. As a former school therapist, I offer personalized support to nurture your growth. Whether you're an adult seeking clarity or a parent concerned about your teen's behavior, rest assured, I'm here to help you navigate through life's challenges.
(972) 472-2927 View (972) 472-2927
Photo of Micah Cameron Gultery Individual Families Couples, LPC-A
Micah Cameron Gultery Individual Families Couples
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219
As an African American, Micah has developed a multicultural therapy approach to therapy.
As a part of the Gen Z population, Micah has found his passion and purpose in working with troubled adolescents, struggling young adults, and adults of all ages looking for solutions to complex problems. Micah specializes in behavioral issues, drug use and abuse, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, mental health issues, self-harm, anger management, self-esteem challenges, stress, and time management issues. Micah works with individuals, couples counseling, family counseling, and groups. His role as a counselor is to be a journeyman with each client's experiences. He is an advocate, encourager, and supporter throughout sessions.
As an African American, Micah has developed a multicultural therapy approach to therapy.
As a part of the Gen Z population, Micah has found his passion and purpose in working with troubled adolescents, struggling young adults, and adults of all ages looking for solutions to complex problems. Micah specializes in behavioral issues, drug use and abuse, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, mental health issues, self-harm, anger management, self-esteem challenges, stress, and time management issues. Micah works with individuals, couples counseling, family counseling, and groups. His role as a counselor is to be a journeyman with each client's experiences. He is an advocate, encourager, and supporter throughout sessions.
(469) 829-4602 View (469) 829-4602
Photo of Courtney Miller, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75226  (Online Only)
It is my goal to be apart of breaking the stigma of mental health in the black community and promote healing.
Are you in a relationship, but somehow feel lonely? Do you find yourself struggling with boundaries, communication, self-esteem, and conflict? I’m happy to help you develop the skills necessary to navigate dating and relationships more effectively. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas and I’m excited to assist you with your personal, career, mental, and emotional needs. Since you are reading this, that means you are considering creating a new narrative to manifest the future and the relationships you have always dreamt for yourself and/or your family. Investing in your future now is key. Let’s get started!
It is my goal to be apart of breaking the stigma of mental health in the black community and promote healing.
Are you in a relationship, but somehow feel lonely? Do you find yourself struggling with boundaries, communication, self-esteem, and conflict? I’m happy to help you develop the skills necessary to navigate dating and relationships more effectively. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas and I’m excited to assist you with your personal, career, mental, and emotional needs. Since you are reading this, that means you are considering creating a new narrative to manifest the future and the relationships you have always dreamt for yourself and/or your family. Investing in your future now is key. Let’s get started!
(346) 209-0691 View (346) 209-0691
Photo of Nia Nimmers, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nia Nimmers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75081
Maybe you feel like the black sheep of the family, or maybe you're overwhelmed by parental pressure as an adult. Perhaps you’re feeling drained and exhausted by your current friendships. Maybe you're engaged, excited about the wedding and, of course, the honeymoon…but you also may realize there are so many things your parents didn't tell you about marriage. You want a place to talk about budgeting, future children, intimacy, and more. Maybe you are years into your marriage and struggling to keep the fire lit or feel trapped by all the long-term relational wounds and feel like you have reached the point of no return.
Maybe you feel like the black sheep of the family, or maybe you're overwhelmed by parental pressure as an adult. Perhaps you’re feeling drained and exhausted by your current friendships. Maybe you're engaged, excited about the wedding and, of course, the honeymoon…but you also may realize there are so many things your parents didn't tell you about marriage. You want a place to talk about budgeting, future children, intimacy, and more. Maybe you are years into your marriage and struggling to keep the fire lit or feel trapped by all the long-term relational wounds and feel like you have reached the point of no return.
(469) 382-3485 View (469) 382-3485
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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.