Black and African American Therapists in Stafford, TX
![Photo of Alicia Turner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2504109e-2fb3-4342-82e0-303a66a72687/2/320x400.png)
Alicia Turner is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She received her Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas- Arlington with an emphasis in Couples and Family Therapy. Alicia has experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Grief and Loss Therapy. She believes in being a vehicle to assist clients as they reach their goals and grow within the therapeutic process. She is passionate about normalizing mental health treatment, improving accessibility to mental health care for all, and understands one size does not fit all.
Alicia Turner is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She received her Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas- Arlington with an emphasis in Couples and Family Therapy. Alicia has experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Grief and Loss Therapy. She believes in being a vehicle to assist clients as they reach their goals and grow within the therapeutic process. She is passionate about normalizing mental health treatment, improving accessibility to mental health care for all, and understands one size does not fit all.
SE Behavioral Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Stafford, TX 77477 (Online Only)
SE Behavioral Consulting is dedicated to serving clients with professional and effective behavioral health services. Our company provides quality services that enrich and strengthen the lives of our citizens. We offer an array of services to support those challenged with behavioral health concerns. Our mission is to provide optimal therapeutic services to improve the quality of life for persons suffering with personal issues, traumatic experiences and mental illness through professional care and support. We provide high quality, safe and effective services that incorporates cultural diversity and the dignity of the individual.
SE Behavioral Consulting is dedicated to serving clients with professional and effective behavioral health services. Our company provides quality services that enrich and strengthen the lives of our citizens. We offer an array of services to support those challenged with behavioral health concerns. Our mission is to provide optimal therapeutic services to improve the quality of life for persons suffering with personal issues, traumatic experiences and mental illness through professional care and support. We provide high quality, safe and effective services that incorporates cultural diversity and the dignity of the individual.
![Photo of Tiffany Nasso'arjona, MS, LPC-A, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68b5ff6b-235d-498e-87f1-12d27ebf4a43/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a graduate of the Texas A&M – Central Texas Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor- Associate with an eclectic background. Having experience serving in the miliary and working as a paramedic, I bring a varied and deep knowledge base relating to traumatic and other chronic disorders. I have worked in the managed care system with both acute and chronic illnesses and focuses on how overall wellness and physiological well-being play a role in how we feel mentally. I have experience working with clients of all ages and from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
I am a graduate of the Texas A&M – Central Texas Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor- Associate with an eclectic background. Having experience serving in the miliary and working as a paramedic, I bring a varied and deep knowledge base relating to traumatic and other chronic disorders. I have worked in the managed care system with both acute and chronic illnesses and focuses on how overall wellness and physiological well-being play a role in how we feel mentally. I have experience working with clients of all ages and from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
![Photo of Dr. Cottrell Jacobs, PsyD, LPC-S, ASOTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43836989-645a-45ce-9ac2-70a07b629c01/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Cottrell Jacobs
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC-S, ASOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stafford, TX 77477
Stressors and negative emotions can have us all feeling overwhelmed at times. Are you triggered by certain words, or situations? Do you find yourself thinking about or reliving trauma from the past? If the answer is yes to either of the two, let's work together to discover a solution. Anxiety, anger issues, depression, relationship issues, and trauma have all increased over the last decade. Talking to a professional can help navigate life's difficult moments.
Stressors and negative emotions can have us all feeling overwhelmed at times. Are you triggered by certain words, or situations? Do you find yourself thinking about or reliving trauma from the past? If the answer is yes to either of the two, let's work together to discover a solution. Anxiety, anger issues, depression, relationship issues, and trauma have all increased over the last decade. Talking to a professional can help navigate life's difficult moments.
![Photo of Victoria Williams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e37a41a-d2eb-4a17-b951-8ef20c817811/1/320x400.png)
Victoria Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Stafford, TX 77477 (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Victoria Williams and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work with individuals and family in areas such as anxiety, anger management, behavioral issues, coping skills, and depression, amongst others. I work well with adolescents in that I listen to them and help them gain insight to understanding how their behaviors play a major role in their future. I use the cognitive behavioral therapy approach as I believe thoughts are directly tied to behaviors. Once we are able to identify irrational thoughts, we can start to learn more positive functional behaviors to respond to uncomfortable situations.
Welcome! My name is Victoria Williams and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work with individuals and family in areas such as anxiety, anger management, behavioral issues, coping skills, and depression, amongst others. I work well with adolescents in that I listen to them and help them gain insight to understanding how their behaviors play a major role in their future. I use the cognitive behavioral therapy approach as I believe thoughts are directly tied to behaviors. Once we are able to identify irrational thoughts, we can start to learn more positive functional behaviors to respond to uncomfortable situations.
![Photo of Xanthia Baptiste, MS, LPC-A, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2de88d85-452b-48bc-8527-5034f56ac008/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there! I'm Xanthia, a licensed professional counselor associate. I hope that my scars and wounds will be signs of hope for others who are on the edge and drowning in darkness. It’s important to realize that everyone may struggle or experience a difficult time at some point in their life. I'm eager to take the journey with those ready to break out of mental fatigue. As your therapist, I'm driven to be by your side to counteract negativity bias, set and achieve goals, and maintain a positive mindset. A foundation of grace, love, and authenticity is what I value most and is vital in this healing journey.
Hello there! I'm Xanthia, a licensed professional counselor associate. I hope that my scars and wounds will be signs of hope for others who are on the edge and drowning in darkness. It’s important to realize that everyone may struggle or experience a difficult time at some point in their life. I'm eager to take the journey with those ready to break out of mental fatigue. As your therapist, I'm driven to be by your side to counteract negativity bias, set and achieve goals, and maintain a positive mindset. A foundation of grace, love, and authenticity is what I value most and is vital in this healing journey.
![Photo of Carolyn D Washington, LPC82, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3ef0663-d895-46a2-a38f-81aab653f32f/1/320x400.png)
I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. Working together we will identify the issues that brought you to counseling, what you're looking to get out of your counseling experience and identify your therapy goals. We will walk together on this journey toward wholeness. Counseling is a process that takes time, openness, and work. Using a non-judgmental approach to counseling you will have an opportunity to connect and build positive rapport along the way.
I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. Working together we will identify the issues that brought you to counseling, what you're looking to get out of your counseling experience and identify your therapy goals. We will walk together on this journey toward wholeness. Counseling is a process that takes time, openness, and work. Using a non-judgmental approach to counseling you will have an opportunity to connect and build positive rapport along the way.
![Photo of Ivee Marie Syon, MA, LMFT-, Assoc, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/112ad032-3507-45fd-a834-4e31d8661c0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ivee Marie Syon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-, Assoc
Verified Verified
Stafford, TX 77477 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself caught in the whirlwind of life, not sure of how you got here? Sometimes the work we do or the situations we face leaves us feeling like we must project an image of a perfect character or a life free from struggle. Often, when we try to address the problem we fail, or our remedy is only temporary. Here at Wise Counsel Solutions, we deal with the root or the heart of the matter. We’ll walk alongside you and help you obtain the freedom you desire. Freedom from disappointments, expectations, and even shame.
Do you find yourself caught in the whirlwind of life, not sure of how you got here? Sometimes the work we do or the situations we face leaves us feeling like we must project an image of a perfect character or a life free from struggle. Often, when we try to address the problem we fail, or our remedy is only temporary. Here at Wise Counsel Solutions, we deal with the root or the heart of the matter. We’ll walk alongside you and help you obtain the freedom you desire. Freedom from disappointments, expectations, and even shame.
![Photo of Lynsay E. Gaines, MSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28047872-af77-467f-8ab9-106a57207884/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lynsay E. Gaines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stafford, TX 77477
Are you trying to find balance in your life? Are you having difficulty maintaining healthy relationships with others? Do you constantly worry about things and feel overwhelmed? Knowing where to go and seeking help for dealing with these life issues is not easy. I believe therapy is a collaborative process for helping individuals to identify patterns, resources and solutions for their areas of concern. I work alongside individuals to help them change their ways of thinking about various aspects of their life, enhance coping skills, their response to stressors, create healthy boundaries, and improve relationships.
Are you trying to find balance in your life? Are you having difficulty maintaining healthy relationships with others? Do you constantly worry about things and feel overwhelmed? Knowing where to go and seeking help for dealing with these life issues is not easy. I believe therapy is a collaborative process for helping individuals to identify patterns, resources and solutions for their areas of concern. I work alongside individuals to help them change their ways of thinking about various aspects of their life, enhance coping skills, their response to stressors, create healthy boundaries, and improve relationships.
![Photo of Nkem Chinwah, MS, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3025d107-8ae4-4edd-8139-3f846c23eb38/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nkem Chinwah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Stafford, TX 77497
Nkem is the owner of Mine Counseling PLLC, an AAMFT-approved Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor, and an OLLU adjunct MFT Instructor, where she teaches MFT students therapy skills. Mine Counseling PLLC is a group practice where every client is offered unconditional support and treated with "unconditional positive regard". At Mine Counseling LLC, we believe that therapy is life therefore, it's our pleasure to explore the different possibilities to find alternative solutions to life’s lived experiences and learn healthy ways to navigate their social interactions. Check out our bios at minecounseling.com
Nkem is the owner of Mine Counseling PLLC, an AAMFT-approved Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor, and an OLLU adjunct MFT Instructor, where she teaches MFT students therapy skills. Mine Counseling PLLC is a group practice where every client is offered unconditional support and treated with "unconditional positive regard". At Mine Counseling LLC, we believe that therapy is life therefore, it's our pleasure to explore the different possibilities to find alternative solutions to life’s lived experiences and learn healthy ways to navigate their social interactions. Check out our bios at minecounseling.com
![Photo of Zeynep Cifci, MS, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5304ef65-3999-4e24-8ec1-7befe33ab55d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zeynep Cifci
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Stafford, TX 77477
Over the years I have had the privilege of working with clients dealing with conflicts and life struggles with various background, culture, ethnic identity and faith system. I am passionate about providing an environment of safety and integrity for you (adolescents, adults, couples and families) to reach and sustain your journey to emotional healing, well being and a sense of control in life. I can anticipate seeking help isn't always easy thus, I provide a genuine effort make you feel welcome as you start this essential step for yourself and loved ones.
Over the years I have had the privilege of working with clients dealing with conflicts and life struggles with various background, culture, ethnic identity and faith system. I am passionate about providing an environment of safety and integrity for you (adolescents, adults, couples and families) to reach and sustain your journey to emotional healing, well being and a sense of control in life. I can anticipate seeking help isn't always easy thus, I provide a genuine effort make you feel welcome as you start this essential step for yourself and loved ones.
![Photo of Dr. Kemi Sells, DBH, LCSW-S, ACSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f78ae5e6-cb2b-491d-9086-3ef9eac3d54a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kemi Sells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW-S, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stafford, TX 77477 (Online Only)
Every situation, every experience, every individual is unique; the approach for dealing with them should be unique as well. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for working with people and I am armed with awareness that each individual is unique and experiences life differently. I have a Doctorate of Behavioral Health degree, Master of Science in Social Work and a Bachelor of Science in Sociology. I work with children, teenagers, adults, and older adults diagnosed with significant mental health issues. I am committed to working with individuals to create a more satisfying life.
Every situation, every experience, every individual is unique; the approach for dealing with them should be unique as well. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for working with people and I am armed with awareness that each individual is unique and experiences life differently. I have a Doctorate of Behavioral Health degree, Master of Science in Social Work and a Bachelor of Science in Sociology. I work with children, teenagers, adults, and older adults diagnosed with significant mental health issues. I am committed to working with individuals to create a more satisfying life.
![Photo of Dr. Natassia Johnson, PhD, LPC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df28df7d-5687-4dc6-8ef6-d38b7cfbd001/3/320x400.jpeg)
Schedule and in-person or virtual (in 42 states!) free initial consultation or intake session at www.dnjpsychology.com! .......... We all need a soft place to fall… a place where we can begin to unravel the mysteries of our life… a place where we can begin to hope that things can be different. You deserve a chance to move through the world with less pain and a belief that you’re not wasting your precious time on this earth. Do you know what needs to be done but you’re struggling with doing it? Are you lost in how to make things better and need help with where to start? Have you started making changes and want support along the way?
Schedule and in-person or virtual (in 42 states!) free initial consultation or intake session at www.dnjpsychology.com! .......... We all need a soft place to fall… a place where we can begin to unravel the mysteries of our life… a place where we can begin to hope that things can be different. You deserve a chance to move through the world with less pain and a belief that you’re not wasting your precious time on this earth. Do you know what needs to be done but you’re struggling with doing it? Are you lost in how to make things better and need help with where to start? Have you started making changes and want support along the way?
![Photo of Nicole Thompson, MA, MS, LMFT-A, LPC-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a6a365c-6199-4d96-aba2-44a9f7bfdd22/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MS, LMFT-A, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stafford, TX 77477
Are you feeling nervous about starting therapy and engaging with a total stranger? If so, I'll make it comfortable for you to share those things that have kept you stuck. I'll also help you make sense of your past and family-of-origin issues that impact your life and significant relationships. Therapy is not always about deeply traumatic experiences but can provide an understanding of issues that will empower you to make changes that lead to sustained transformation. I work with individuals ten years and above and especially enjoy working with women and couples who want to learn how to connect emotionally.
Are you feeling nervous about starting therapy and engaging with a total stranger? If so, I'll make it comfortable for you to share those things that have kept you stuck. I'll also help you make sense of your past and family-of-origin issues that impact your life and significant relationships. Therapy is not always about deeply traumatic experiences but can provide an understanding of issues that will empower you to make changes that lead to sustained transformation. I work with individuals ten years and above and especially enjoy working with women and couples who want to learn how to connect emotionally.
![Photo of Terrie Tingle-Harris - Ordered Steps To Recovery, LLC., LCDC, ADC, ICADC, CART, CHW, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d388ce55-9665-4ba8-9009-24a0b23d7149/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ordered Steps To Recovery, LLC.
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCDC, ADC, ICADC, CART, CHW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stafford, TX 77477
Ordered Steps To Recovery is an Educational and Counseling Program designed to help clients recognize and recover from addiction through assessment, counseling and aftercare. Treatment services are available to adults on an outpatient basis that enables them to maintain normal activities, such as work and school, during the treatment process. Our counseling is conducted in a supportive virtual environment and all clients receive direction on ways to achieve a positive, drug and alcohol-free lifestyle.
Ordered Steps To Recovery is an Educational and Counseling Program designed to help clients recognize and recover from addiction through assessment, counseling and aftercare. Treatment services are available to adults on an outpatient basis that enables them to maintain normal activities, such as work and school, during the treatment process. Our counseling is conducted in a supportive virtual environment and all clients receive direction on ways to achieve a positive, drug and alcohol-free lifestyle.
![Photo of Tawa T. Oyedemi - Toye Counseling Services, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b96ffbca-28bb-4a8a-87e4-558ca33914d6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Toye Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stafford, TX 77477
Are you struggling with unexplained sadness, feeling hopeless, helpless, irritable or just angry? Are you or your child feeling anxious, fearful, worried, have experienced trauma or have difficulty adjusting to a change?. Do you have relationship problems with your child or can't get along with others? Are you having difficulty maintaining work and life balance? I am available to assist you in developing greater self awareness and work in collaboration to overcome your challenges. I am passionate about helping children, teen, and adults build effective relationships, manage depression, anger, anxiety, and trauma related issues
Are you struggling with unexplained sadness, feeling hopeless, helpless, irritable or just angry? Are you or your child feeling anxious, fearful, worried, have experienced trauma or have difficulty adjusting to a change?. Do you have relationship problems with your child or can't get along with others? Are you having difficulty maintaining work and life balance? I am available to assist you in developing greater self awareness and work in collaboration to overcome your challenges. I am passionate about helping children, teen, and adults build effective relationships, manage depression, anger, anxiety, and trauma related issues
![Photo of Takisha Thibodeaux, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f04f41d0-c98d-41b6-9c49-06618827575b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Takisha Thibodeaux
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Stafford, TX 77477 (Online Only)
As adults, we naturally want to protect children from the pain of loss or the traumatic experiences of life challenges. Children’s response to worries and struggles may cause heartbreak for parents and caretakers to witness firsthand sadness, big emotions, and concerning behaviors. Children and teens should not face the challenges and pain alone. They need support, guidance, and a safe place to process struggles. As a result of psychotherapy, facing struggles and challenges can help kids build determination, courage, coping skills and confidence.
As adults, we naturally want to protect children from the pain of loss or the traumatic experiences of life challenges. Children’s response to worries and struggles may cause heartbreak for parents and caretakers to witness firsthand sadness, big emotions, and concerning behaviors. Children and teens should not face the challenges and pain alone. They need support, guidance, and a safe place to process struggles. As a result of psychotherapy, facing struggles and challenges can help kids build determination, courage, coping skills and confidence.
![Photo of Onyi Oriji-Dor - Mérite Counseling & Consulting Services, MSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f26994a-fcfc-4f86-800d-791f00269b6a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mérite Counseling & Consulting Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stafford, TX 77477 (Online Only)
If you're feeling stressed, overworked, misunderstood, exhausted, or like you're in a constant state of turmoil, you are not alone! These past few years have been especially difficult. Our lives have changed so much. This massive unexpected change has thrown us into chaos, affecting our romantic relationships, our friendships, our jobs, our kids- every sector of our daily lives. Therapy can be a much-needed place of calm, reflection, and processing. Whether you're single or coupled I can support and guide you through whatever life circumstances you're experiencing.
If you're feeling stressed, overworked, misunderstood, exhausted, or like you're in a constant state of turmoil, you are not alone! These past few years have been especially difficult. Our lives have changed so much. This massive unexpected change has thrown us into chaos, affecting our romantic relationships, our friendships, our jobs, our kids- every sector of our daily lives. Therapy can be a much-needed place of calm, reflection, and processing. Whether you're single or coupled I can support and guide you through whatever life circumstances you're experiencing.
MYS Counseling & Assessment
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, EdD, CART
Verified Verified
Stafford, TX 77477
Our team is focused on helping our clients and their families find peace and success in their home, work and relationships through our unique method. It is brief and solution-focused, enabling clients to reconnect with their authentic selves and be the person they know they can be. Our therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists are of one mind, that you are unique and valuable, and have the potential to succeed in life and relationships. Our brief therapy period focuses on helping you know how your brain is tripping you up and how it can heal you as well, know yourself better than ever, and reclaim lost self-esteem and freedom!
Our team is focused on helping our clients and their families find peace and success in their home, work and relationships through our unique method. It is brief and solution-focused, enabling clients to reconnect with their authentic selves and be the person they know they can be. Our therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists are of one mind, that you are unique and valuable, and have the potential to succeed in life and relationships. Our brief therapy period focuses on helping you know how your brain is tripping you up and how it can heal you as well, know yourself better than ever, and reclaim lost self-esteem and freedom!
![Photo of La' Merle Rice - LTS Lamerle Therapy Solutions, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52a9c7bd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
LTS Lamerle Therapy Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Stafford, TX 77477 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
La’ Merle serves children and adults and provides Individual and family counseling. She works with individuals in order to help them deal with issues involving mental and emotional health that could be related to past trauma, mental illness or substance abuse. She helps individuals to gain insight into their emotional make-up and find healing around past trauma. In family counseling she helps families to work through their issues facilitating dialogues and ensuring everyone’s needs are met.
La’ Merle serves children and adults and provides Individual and family counseling. She works with individuals in order to help them deal with issues involving mental and emotional health that could be related to past trauma, mental illness or substance abuse. She helps individuals to gain insight into their emotional make-up and find healing around past trauma. In family counseling she helps families to work through their issues facilitating dialogues and ensuring everyone’s needs are met.
See more therapy options for Stafford
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Stafford
- Bellaire
- Fresno
- Houston
- Manvel
- Missouri City
- Park Row
- Pearland
- Richmond
- Rosenberg
- Rosharon
- Sugar Land
- West University Place
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.