Black British Counselling in Folkestone

Photo of Claire Hershman, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred, Psychotherapist
Claire Hershman
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Folkestone CT20
As an experienced counsellor, I provide help to individuals and couples who feel held back from leading healthy, fulfilling lives, and may feel unable to enjoy their relationship, either personally, or in their work. I see therapy as collaborative. Together, drawing on my years of experience and training, we can work to to help you make changes that enhance, or rebuild your life.whether its is relationship difficulties, or challenges you are experiencing in your work and creativity ..
As an experienced counsellor, I provide help to individuals and couples who feel held back from leading healthy, fulfilling lives, and may feel unable to enjoy their relationship, either personally, or in their work. I see therapy as collaborative. Together, drawing on my years of experience and training, we can work to to help you make changes that enhance, or rebuild your life.whether its is relationship difficulties, or challenges you are experiencing in your work and creativity ..
01303 760780 View 01303 760780

Online Therapists

Photo of Danielle Westcarr-Jourdan, MBACP, Counsellor
Danielle Westcarr-Jourdan
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N1
I have explored a range of difficulties such as Anxiety and Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Racial Identity and Racial Trauma, Family Conflict, Marital breakdowns, relationship issues, and sexual abuse with a wide range of clients including those from Black, Asian, and ethnic minority backgrounds and those who identify as LGBTQIA+.
I am passionate about supporting individuals with their psychological health and well-being. As a MBACP Integrative Counsellor & Therapist, I have experience of working with children, young people and adults in both educational and medical settings. I engage with individuals in a client-led way, face to face and through telephone communications, developing 1:1 relationships of trust and genuineness. Having experience of providing both short and long-term therapy, I offer a therapeutic space for self-discovery and growth, helping with the facilitation of individuals reconnecting with themselves, family members and society.
I have explored a range of difficulties such as Anxiety and Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Racial Identity and Racial Trauma, Family Conflict, Marital breakdowns, relationship issues, and sexual abuse with a wide range of clients including those from Black, Asian, and ethnic minority backgrounds and those who identify as LGBTQIA+.
I am passionate about supporting individuals with their psychological health and well-being. As a MBACP Integrative Counsellor & Therapist, I have experience of working with children, young people and adults in both educational and medical settings. I engage with individuals in a client-led way, face to face and through telephone communications, developing 1:1 relationships of trust and genuineness. Having experience of providing both short and long-term therapy, I offer a therapeutic space for self-discovery and growth, helping with the facilitation of individuals reconnecting with themselves, family members and society.
020 4538 9452 View 020 4538 9452
Photo of Pauline Ferguson, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Pauline Ferguson
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N8  (Online Only)
utilising an intercultural and intersectional lens; when working with clients of  Black African/African-Caribbean heritage, and people of colour—working within the context of racial trauma​.
After working in Social Care for over 25 years, 20 years as a qualified Social Worker working with families and with Victim Support. Placing myself in my client's shoes so to speak being able to listen to the issues, and the need to not only be heard but understood from the client's frame of reference. With my professional experiences and calm manner, I support my clients in attaining their goals in therapy always keeping my focus on the needs of my clients and working at their pace. I feel that by being able to identify with the trauma that is experienced be it racial or identity I can value the experience for my client.
utilising an intercultural and intersectional lens; when working with clients of  Black African/African-Caribbean heritage, and people of colour—working within the context of racial trauma​.
After working in Social Care for over 25 years, 20 years as a qualified Social Worker working with families and with Victim Support. Placing myself in my client's shoes so to speak being able to listen to the issues, and the need to not only be heard but understood from the client's frame of reference. With my professional experiences and calm manner, I support my clients in attaining their goals in therapy always keeping my focus on the needs of my clients and working at their pace. I feel that by being able to identify with the trauma that is experienced be it racial or identity I can value the experience for my client.
020 3835 3141 View 020 3835 3141
Photo of Yinka Bakare, PsychD, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Yinka Bakare
Counsellor, PsychD, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Croydon CR0
I have found counselling extremely helpful for myself, when I was studying to become a therapist in the early 2000s, when I qualified, I thought that being a Black male with a lot of life experience, along with the counselling skills I had learnt, I could be of great use of taking people from point A-B in their lives, so far so good I have been able to help many people to find what they were looking for, or what they had lost. This as given myself great rewards in feeling useful to society.
I have found counselling extremely helpful for myself, when I was studying to become a therapist in the early 2000s, when I qualified, I thought that being a Black male with a lot of life experience, along with the counselling skills I had learnt, I could be of great use of taking people from point A-B in their lives, so far so good I have been able to help many people to find what they were looking for, or what they had lost. This as given myself great rewards in feeling useful to society.
020 3816 1612 View 020 3816 1612
Photo of Dave Chambers, MSc, MBACP, Counsellor
Dave Chambers
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SE13  (Online Only)
I have received additional training in working with clients from the Black, Asian and LGBTQ+ communities, and use affirmative practice.
I am a qualified person-centred counsellor and psychotherapist based in Manchester, offering online counselling to individuals and couples in the UK. My approach is warm and friendly and I work with care and compassion. I offer a safe space, free from judgement, where you can be yourself and explore any issues that may be causing confusion, discomfort or distress. You will decide what we talk about and we will always work at a pace that is comfortable for you. It is important that you feel at ease working with me, so I offer a free first session (50 minutes), so you can see how I work and decide whether you wish to continue.
I have received additional training in working with clients from the Black, Asian and LGBTQ+ communities, and use affirmative practice.
I am a qualified person-centred counsellor and psychotherapist based in Manchester, offering online counselling to individuals and couples in the UK. My approach is warm and friendly and I work with care and compassion. I offer a safe space, free from judgement, where you can be yourself and explore any issues that may be causing confusion, discomfort or distress. You will decide what we talk about and we will always work at a pace that is comfortable for you. It is important that you feel at ease working with me, so I offer a free first session (50 minutes), so you can see how I work and decide whether you wish to continue.
01707 244854 View 01707 244854
Photo of Nicola Birago, BACP, Counsellor
Nicola Birago
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
London EC4R
My specialism lies in working with Black and Minority Ethnic females, offering a safe and inclusive space to address their unique challenges and experiences.
Do you feel unheard, undervalued or stuck in life? Do you find it hard to express yourself or do you feel no one understands you? I am passionate about supporting client to have a voice, to be heard and to feel valued. I am passionate about supporting clients to develop confidence and self esteem which in turn promotes self care. I am also passionate about working with individuals with different attachment styles and overcoming childhood trauma. As adults, despite early life and childhood experiences, i believe individuals can work towards building secure attachments in their adult relationships and healing from childhood trauma.
My specialism lies in working with Black and Minority Ethnic females, offering a safe and inclusive space to address their unique challenges and experiences.
Do you feel unheard, undervalued or stuck in life? Do you find it hard to express yourself or do you feel no one understands you? I am passionate about supporting client to have a voice, to be heard and to feel valued. I am passionate about supporting clients to develop confidence and self esteem which in turn promotes self care. I am also passionate about working with individuals with different attachment styles and overcoming childhood trauma. As adults, despite early life and childhood experiences, i believe individuals can work towards building secure attachments in their adult relationships and healing from childhood trauma.
07480 779853 View 07480 779853
Photo of Dr Kayode Akinsulire, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Kayode Akinsulire
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SE1
Welcome! My Name is Kay and I am a Counselling Psychologist registered with the HCPC. I base my practice in an integrative approach using Narrative, CBT, psychodynamic and person-centred interventions where appropriate. The healing power of the therapeutic relationship is crucial to my practice. I aim for this relationship to be restorative, in support of safety, learning and creativity. I have accrued experience of therapeutic work in different settings within the NHS and community-based charities. I provide therapy to everyone including clients of Asian and Black African/African-Caribbean heritage.
Welcome! My Name is Kay and I am a Counselling Psychologist registered with the HCPC. I base my practice in an integrative approach using Narrative, CBT, psychodynamic and person-centred interventions where appropriate. The healing power of the therapeutic relationship is crucial to my practice. I aim for this relationship to be restorative, in support of safety, learning and creativity. I have accrued experience of therapeutic work in different settings within the NHS and community-based charities. I provide therapy to everyone including clients of Asian and Black African/African-Caribbean heritage.
020 4538 8563 View 020 4538 8563
Photo of Sabrina Green, BACP, Counsellor
Sabrina Green
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
London SE14  (Online Only)
As a black woman, I am attuned to the intersectional nature of sexual violence and how race, gender, and other identity factors can impact trauma.
I am a person-centred counsellor and I provide a wide range of therapy. I am also a sexual violence trauma specialist, my primary focus is on providing support and healing to individuals who have experienced sexual violence, including childhood sexual abuse, rape, and domestic violence. My approach to therapy is person-centred, meaning that I prioritize the client's needs, goals, and experiences in the therapeutic process. Through years of experience working with women who have experienced sexual violence, I have developed a deep understanding of the complex and devastating impact of trauma on individuals and their relationships.
As a black woman, I am attuned to the intersectional nature of sexual violence and how race, gender, and other identity factors can impact trauma.
I am a person-centred counsellor and I provide a wide range of therapy. I am also a sexual violence trauma specialist, my primary focus is on providing support and healing to individuals who have experienced sexual violence, including childhood sexual abuse, rape, and domestic violence. My approach to therapy is person-centred, meaning that I prioritize the client's needs, goals, and experiences in the therapeutic process. Through years of experience working with women who have experienced sexual violence, I have developed a deep understanding of the complex and devastating impact of trauma on individuals and their relationships.
020 3540 6430 View 020 3540 6430
Photo of Dalilah Baruti - Therapy & Me, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Therapy & Me
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N20
As a black, Muslim woman that has worked with clients from different backgrounds, I know what it can be like to hold visible identities and appreciate how these can be in harmony or conflict with invisible aspects of ourselves, as well as contribute to feelings of difference.
Maybe you feel as though you are negotiating between intersecting parts of yourself such as your mind, body, heart and soul and you’re finding it difficult to find a balance that feels sincere to you. Perhaps this back and forth is affecting how you behave with your family, friends or partner and you’re finding it difficult to cope. You want to live a life where you can integrate more aspects of yourself and feel more whole, to hear and trust yourself, without fear of feeling shame, feeling seen or even feeling truly known by those who matter most to you.
As a black, Muslim woman that has worked with clients from different backgrounds, I know what it can be like to hold visible identities and appreciate how these can be in harmony or conflict with invisible aspects of ourselves, as well as contribute to feelings of difference.
Maybe you feel as though you are negotiating between intersecting parts of yourself such as your mind, body, heart and soul and you’re finding it difficult to find a balance that feels sincere to you. Perhaps this back and forth is affecting how you behave with your family, friends or partner and you’re finding it difficult to cope. You want to live a life where you can integrate more aspects of yourself and feel more whole, to hear and trust yourself, without fear of feeling shame, feeling seen or even feeling truly known by those who matter most to you.
01992 927914 View 01992 927914
Photo of Isatu Turay, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Isatu Turay
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
London SE15  (Online Only)
I welcome all Black and Global majority to gently explore and tend to their mental health and well being.
Central to my therapeutic approach is the belief that every behaviour communicates something significant. As your therapist, I am committed to empowering you to find your voice and navigate through life’s challenges with resilience and authenticity. I am committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive therapeutic environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel seen, heard and valued.
I welcome all Black and Global majority to gently explore and tend to their mental health and well being.
Central to my therapeutic approach is the belief that every behaviour communicates something significant. As your therapist, I am committed to empowering you to find your voice and navigate through life’s challenges with resilience and authenticity. I am committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive therapeutic environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel seen, heard and valued.
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Photo of Misgana Berhane - Hannah Counsellor/EMDR Practitioner & Supervisor, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Hannah Counsellor/EMDR Practitioner & Supervisor
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Eastbourne BN21
I have currently been working with Brighton Therapy Centre and Black Minds Matter.
Deciding to get help is 50% of the solution! Finding the right therapist is the first and most important step. With the right therapist, you feel understood and safe to explore difficult issues. I am an empathic listener who can help you gain insight into your life. To make changes in your life, relationships, your job, or dealing with multiple issues such as depression and anxiety. I am committed to working with you to meet your unique needs and achieve your goals.
I have currently been working with Brighton Therapy Centre and Black Minds Matter.
Deciding to get help is 50% of the solution! Finding the right therapist is the first and most important step. With the right therapist, you feel understood and safe to explore difficult issues. I am an empathic listener who can help you gain insight into your life. To make changes in your life, relationships, your job, or dealing with multiple issues such as depression and anxiety. I am committed to working with you to meet your unique needs and achieve your goals.
01323 403249 View 01323 403249
Photo of Sylvia Anim - Sylvia Anim UK Based psycho(sexual) Therapist , COSRT Accred, Psychotherapist
Sylvia Anim UK Based psycho(sexual) Therapist
Psychotherapist, COSRT Accred
Verified Verified
London N11  (Online Only)
My goal is to give my clients the safe space to express their sexual concerns, to feel empowered and to see themselves as the star and director in their own show, with self compassion and autonomy at the forefront of every interaction. I take a pluralistic approach that necessitates collaborating with my clients to help them achieve their goals in an open, non judgmental and empathetic safe space. I predominantly work with people of all genders and sexualities and relationship constellations from the black community, LGBTQIA and other minority ethnic groups with a wide range of relationship and intimacy concerns.
My goal is to give my clients the safe space to express their sexual concerns, to feel empowered and to see themselves as the star and director in their own show, with self compassion and autonomy at the forefront of every interaction. I take a pluralistic approach that necessitates collaborating with my clients to help them achieve their goals in an open, non judgmental and empathetic safe space. I predominantly work with people of all genders and sexualities and relationship constellations from the black community, LGBTQIA and other minority ethnic groups with a wide range of relationship and intimacy concerns.
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Photo of Shungu Hilda M'gadzah - Inclusion Psychologists Limited, PsychD, HCPC - Ed. Psych., Psychologist
Inclusion Psychologists Limited
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
Guildford GU2  (Online Only)
We are Black Psychologists, Diversity & Inclusion Consultants offering assessments, therapy & coaching services. We are a multidisciplinary team offering counselling, neurodiversity counselling & family therapy. We work with clients from backgrounds, from all over the world & those seeking therapy responsive to their ethnic and cultural needs. We are antiracism experts providing training and assessments in EDI using our Six Stages Conceptual Framework on challenging discriminations & Racism. Providing bespoke training in the areas of diversity and inclusion including special educational needs. Expert witness and negligence claims.
We are Black Psychologists, Diversity & Inclusion Consultants offering assessments, therapy & coaching services. We are a multidisciplinary team offering counselling, neurodiversity counselling & family therapy. We work with clients from backgrounds, from all over the world & those seeking therapy responsive to their ethnic and cultural needs. We are antiracism experts providing training and assessments in EDI using our Six Stages Conceptual Framework on challenging discriminations & Racism. Providing bespoke training in the areas of diversity and inclusion including special educational needs. Expert witness and negligence claims.
07401 284697 View 07401 284697
Photo of Nadine Natasha Christian - Healingthemind, PsychD, MBACP, Counsellor
Healingthemind
Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N4  (Online Only)
I provide counselling to marginalised populations, including clients of Asian Black African/African-Caribbean heritage.
I have worked in addictions for over 20 years, typically I have supported clients to reduce alcohol use. I have supported clients with mild to moderate depression and or anxiety, All clients are individual and come with different goals in therapy, this can be to reduce substances and learn how to cope with emotions that come up. I have also worked with clients who have suffered bereavement or any type of loss.
I provide counselling to marginalised populations, including clients of Asian Black African/African-Caribbean heritage.
I have worked in addictions for over 20 years, typically I have supported clients to reduce alcohol use. I have supported clients with mild to moderate depression and or anxiety, All clients are individual and come with different goals in therapy, this can be to reduce substances and learn how to cope with emotions that come up. I have also worked with clients who have suffered bereavement or any type of loss.
020 4538 9580 View 020 4538 9580
Photo of Ruth Abban, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Ruth Abban
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London E8  (Online Only)
My specialisms include Adultification Bias, Intersectionality, Racial Identity and Racial Trauma, and I also offer therapy to clients from racialised communities (including clients of Black African heritage, African Caribbean heritage and other People of the Global Majority).
After several years of working in the legal sector, I decided to retrain as a Psychotherapist out of my passion to amplify and provide a safe space for the voices of others. I have several years of clinical experience in various reputable institutions, alongside experience as a Clinical Manager in a counselling organisation. As I work integratively with an intersectional and intercultural lens, I have understanding and lived experience of how systems and interpersonal oppression can affect wellbeing in many ways. I also am a qualified Clinical Supervisor for individuals and groups, incorporating this same lens for supervisees.
My specialisms include Adultification Bias, Intersectionality, Racial Identity and Racial Trauma, and I also offer therapy to clients from racialised communities (including clients of Black African heritage, African Caribbean heritage and other People of the Global Majority).
After several years of working in the legal sector, I decided to retrain as a Psychotherapist out of my passion to amplify and provide a safe space for the voices of others. I have several years of clinical experience in various reputable institutions, alongside experience as a Clinical Manager in a counselling organisation. As I work integratively with an intersectional and intercultural lens, I have understanding and lived experience of how systems and interpersonal oppression can affect wellbeing in many ways. I also am a qualified Clinical Supervisor for individuals and groups, incorporating this same lens for supervisees.
020 3835 4213 View 020 3835 4213
Photo of Ann Hackett, BACP, Counsellor
Ann Hackett
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ipswich IP1
I am an Integrative counsellor, Life Coach and NLP practitioner. I believe every client is unique and I like to work together with my clients to help them untangle their pasts and look forward to a brighter future. I will never judge you or your decisions, I understand life is never black and white and most of us do the best we can with the resources available to us. I have a fully accessible counselling room and toilet. I understand the importance of feeling safe and so I will work with you to make the room comfortable for you.
I am an Integrative counsellor, Life Coach and NLP practitioner. I believe every client is unique and I like to work together with my clients to help them untangle their pasts and look forward to a brighter future. I will never judge you or your decisions, I understand life is never black and white and most of us do the best we can with the resources available to us. I have a fully accessible counselling room and toilet. I understand the importance of feeling safe and so I will work with you to make the room comfortable for you.
01473 379562 View 01473 379562
Photo of Keziah Cader, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Keziah Cader
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Thornton Heath CR7  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate and approachable counselling psychotherapist, known for my deep empathy. With over 3 years of experience, my therapeutic practice offers a safe, supportive and confidential haven for self-exploration and growth. My approach is integrative, psychodynamic, relational, and person-centred. I specialise in working with trauma and its impact on our nervous systems, recognising the significance of an intercultural approach, particularly when working with Black and people of colour. My goal is to offer a diverse and culturally rich perspective to help you navigate life's challenges and achieve personal fulfilment.
I am a compassionate and approachable counselling psychotherapist, known for my deep empathy. With over 3 years of experience, my therapeutic practice offers a safe, supportive and confidential haven for self-exploration and growth. My approach is integrative, psychodynamic, relational, and person-centred. I specialise in working with trauma and its impact on our nervous systems, recognising the significance of an intercultural approach, particularly when working with Black and people of colour. My goal is to offer a diverse and culturally rich perspective to help you navigate life's challenges and achieve personal fulfilment.
020 3958 4056 View 020 3958 4056
Photo of Ekua Edufuah, MBACP, Counsellor
Ekua Edufuah
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London E10
I have worked in a wide variety of professional therapeutic counselling settings including black led services for children and adults.
Whether you are new to counselling or returning, I can provide a safe and confidential space face to face or online. My Goal is to listen, help you explore issues that you wish to work through, at your own pace, without judgement or pressure. I work within the BACP's code of ethics and I am fully committed to ensuring confidentiality and safety to all my clients.
I have worked in a wide variety of professional therapeutic counselling settings including black led services for children and adults.
Whether you are new to counselling or returning, I can provide a safe and confidential space face to face or online. My Goal is to listen, help you explore issues that you wish to work through, at your own pace, without judgement or pressure. I work within the BACP's code of ethics and I am fully committed to ensuring confidentiality and safety to all my clients.
020 3962 0730 View 020 3962 0730
Photo of Arlene Marcia Alexander-Price, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Arlene Marcia Alexander-Price
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Burgess Hill RH15
I’ve practiced as an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist since 2009 and mental health nurse for the past 20 years for the NHS and private sector. Both professions combined enable me to work with mild to severe mental health conditions. I have a special interest working with individuals from Black and Minority Ethnic communities and mixed heritage. I can also provide clinical supervision for newly qualified CBT therapists. I am currently working towards my BABCP Supervision Accreditation. My approach is curious and collaborative. I will endeavour to tailor the course of treatment to meet the individual’s needs.
I’ve practiced as an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist since 2009 and mental health nurse for the past 20 years for the NHS and private sector. Both professions combined enable me to work with mild to severe mental health conditions. I have a special interest working with individuals from Black and Minority Ethnic communities and mixed heritage. I can also provide clinical supervision for newly qualified CBT therapists. I am currently working towards my BABCP Supervision Accreditation. My approach is curious and collaborative. I will endeavour to tailor the course of treatment to meet the individual’s needs.
01444 719996 View 01444 719996
Photo of Marvin Blake, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Marvin Blake
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
London WC2H
I work with a range of clients from different backgrounds and with a variety of presentations. Most of my work is with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, and identity and relational difficulties. These may show up as intra or interpersonal difficulties, shame, fear or anxieties around health, performance and confidence, self-esteem and worth, and within social and relational contexts. I provide an open, non-judgemental, validating and conversational space that encourages curiosity, learning and growth, intrinsically and relationally.
I work with a range of clients from different backgrounds and with a variety of presentations. Most of my work is with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, and identity and relational difficulties. These may show up as intra or interpersonal difficulties, shame, fear or anxieties around health, performance and confidence, self-esteem and worth, and within social and relational contexts. I provide an open, non-judgemental, validating and conversational space that encourages curiosity, learning and growth, intrinsically and relationally.
020 3834 7928 View 020 3834 7928

See more therapy options for Folkestone

Black British Counsellors

As a Black British, why might I wish to see a therapist who is Black British?

Black British clients may seek out Black British 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 Black British clients?

Clients can ask therapists directly about their experience working with clients of diverse backgrounds, including with Black British 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 Black British 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, recognising 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.