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Photo of Inclusion Psychologists Limited, Psychologist in Hill Brow, England
Inclusion Psychologists Limited
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
Alton GU34  (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 William Fley, Psychotherapist in Hill Brow, England
William Fley
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Stroud GU32
Do you find yourself struggling to trust others and are holding back from meaningful connections? These concerns may be the result of unresolved trauma. What is Trauma? Trauma occurs precisely when an event is overwhelming to a point where a person is unable to rationalize, defend, process or accept what is happening to them or someone close to them. Trauma fragments the brain’s ability to make sense and therefore move on from the onslaught. The event when it occurs overwhelms and drives us to our basic survival responses. When the traumatic incident occurred did you find yourself unable to move? www.honouringrief.com
Do you find yourself struggling to trust others and are holding back from meaningful connections? These concerns may be the result of unresolved trauma. What is Trauma? Trauma occurs precisely when an event is overwhelming to a point where a person is unable to rationalize, defend, process or accept what is happening to them or someone close to them. Trauma fragments the brain’s ability to make sense and therefore move on from the onslaught. The event when it occurs overwhelms and drives us to our basic survival responses. When the traumatic incident occurred did you find yourself unable to move? www.honouringrief.com
01243 217638 View 01243 217638
Photo of Karen Watson, Psychotherapist in Hill Brow, England
Karen Watson
Psychotherapist, PsychD, BPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midhurst GU29
Hello, I'm Karen, a qualified Adult Psychotherapist working face-to-face in Midhurst and online via Zoom. I recognize that starting therapy can be daunting, but being able to explore any issues that are worrying you with a trained therapist can bring enormous change and freedom. I have learnt from experience how the past and present can influence our lives and the way we function on a daily basis. I always start with a consultation, to explore your needs and goals, no matter how difficult they may seem, we can then determine the best way of achieving these together. There is no commitment at this stage.
Hello, I'm Karen, a qualified Adult Psychotherapist working face-to-face in Midhurst and online via Zoom. I recognize that starting therapy can be daunting, but being able to explore any issues that are worrying you with a trained therapist can bring enormous change and freedom. I have learnt from experience how the past and present can influence our lives and the way we function on a daily basis. I always start with a consultation, to explore your needs and goals, no matter how difficult they may seem, we can then determine the best way of achieving these together. There is no commitment at this stage.
01730 778590 View 01730 778590
Photo of Flora de Quincey, Counsellor in Hill Brow, England
Flora de Quincey
Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Midhurst GU29
I can assist you in gaining insight & understanding into your history to help you make clearer decisions about your future. As we work together to understand the way you are, the easier it will be for you to make decisions to make your life, career and relationships happier, more balanced and more empowered. In therapy you will have a unique chance to be authentic without self-censorship or consideration of others; where the focus is solely on you. As there are so few chances to encounter this kind of interaction, this acts as a powerful catalyst for change and transformation.
I can assist you in gaining insight & understanding into your history to help you make clearer decisions about your future. As we work together to understand the way you are, the easier it will be for you to make decisions to make your life, career and relationships happier, more balanced and more empowered. In therapy you will have a unique chance to be authentic without self-censorship or consideration of others; where the focus is solely on you. As there are so few chances to encounter this kind of interaction, this acts as a powerful catalyst for change and transformation.
07403 936922 View 07403 936922

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr Kayode Akinsulire, Psychologist in Hill Brow, England
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 Sylvia Anim UK Based psycho(sexual) Therapist , Psychotherapist in Hill Brow, England
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.
020 3838 0929 View 020 3838 0929
Photo of Lebo Molefe, Counsellor in Hill Brow, England
Lebo Molefe
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Salisbury SP1
As a black therapist, my diverse background enhances my understanding of the unique struggles faced by different groups. I utilise an Integrative approach, but it's my personal experiences and cultural awareness that influence how I work. I aim to create a welcoming space where clients feel recognised and valued for their differences. I offer guidance and support as they navigate through challenging times in their lives, creating a safe and nurturing environment for them to explore their issues with my presence and companionship every step of the way, until they feel confident and empowered to stand on their own.
As a black therapist, my diverse background enhances my understanding of the unique struggles faced by different groups. I utilise an Integrative approach, but it's my personal experiences and cultural awareness that influence how I work. I aim to create a welcoming space where clients feel recognised and valued for their differences. I offer guidance and support as they navigate through challenging times in their lives, creating a safe and nurturing environment for them to explore their issues with my presence and companionship every step of the way, until they feel confident and empowered to stand on their own.
01794 331145 View 01794 331145
Photo of Denise James, Counsellor in Hill Brow, England
Denise James
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
London N4  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My book Back to love, is a black woman's story of recovery from Adverse Childhood Experiences, healing then coming to live, the best life experience possible.
I am an accredited therapist with 38 years experience working with people struggling with all types of problem behaviours, traumas and challenging life events. Whatever the presenting problem, I am a therapist who is passionate about self-transformation and the living of the best life experience possible. The the type of therapy I provide helps clients to realise lasting-change. I offer 6 weeks or 12 weeks solution focused therapy. I also offer one-off 90-minutes solutions focused therapy sessions for people who has a particular issue that they would like to get to the bottom off & resolve. This cost £90. I offer some concessions.
My book Back to love, is a black woman's story of recovery from Adverse Childhood Experiences, healing then coming to live, the best life experience possible.
I am an accredited therapist with 38 years experience working with people struggling with all types of problem behaviours, traumas and challenging life events. Whatever the presenting problem, I am a therapist who is passionate about self-transformation and the living of the best life experience possible. The the type of therapy I provide helps clients to realise lasting-change. I offer 6 weeks or 12 weeks solution focused therapy. I also offer one-off 90-minutes solutions focused therapy sessions for people who has a particular issue that they would like to get to the bottom off & resolve. This cost £90. I offer some concessions.
020 3917 4434 View 020 3917 4434
Photo of Danielle Westcarr-Jourdan, Counsellor in Hill Brow, England
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 Maurhys Phillips, Counsellor in Hill Brow, England
Maurhys Phillips
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London E11
I am an experienced counsellor also offering supervision for counsellors. I work with children , young people, adults and families. Life is tough and I therefore offer support for people who are struggling with their mental health. I have worked in education for the past 10 years working in primary and secondary schools and now in a university setting. I provide counselling to marginalised populations, including clients of Asian Black African/African-Caribbean heritage and those from the LGBTQIA+ community and potentially struggling with their sexuality and/or identity.
I am an experienced counsellor also offering supervision for counsellors. I work with children , young people, adults and families. Life is tough and I therefore offer support for people who are struggling with their mental health. I have worked in education for the past 10 years working in primary and secondary schools and now in a university setting. I provide counselling to marginalised populations, including clients of Asian Black African/African-Caribbean heritage and those from the LGBTQIA+ community and potentially struggling with their sexuality and/or identity.
020 4538 7273 View 020 4538 7273
Photo of Lydia Browne, Counsellor in Hill Brow, England
Lydia Browne
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northampton NN3  (Online Only)
I am an experienced counsellor. I offer UK wide, online video counselling for women aged 40+. I offer counselling that serves to empower and support the wellbeing of women of all cultural backgrounds, particularly as they navigate the unique set of challenges and changes to personal, family life, relationships, work, career, that come with maturity. As a London born, Afro-Caribbean Black British woman in her late 50's, I can offer a nuanced understanding of women of Black/African/African-Caribbean origin who are struggling with challenges in life that are causing difficult and overwhelming emotions.
I am an experienced counsellor. I offer UK wide, online video counselling for women aged 40+. I offer counselling that serves to empower and support the wellbeing of women of all cultural backgrounds, particularly as they navigate the unique set of challenges and changes to personal, family life, relationships, work, career, that come with maturity. As a London born, Afro-Caribbean Black British woman in her late 50's, I can offer a nuanced understanding of women of Black/African/African-Caribbean origin who are struggling with challenges in life that are causing difficult and overwhelming emotions.
01406 431138 View 01406 431138
Photo of Ruth Abban, Psychotherapist in Hill Brow, England
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 over 2 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.
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 over 2 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.
020 3835 4213 View 020 3835 4213
Photo of Pauline Ferguson, Psychotherapist in Hill Brow, England
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.
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.
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 Healingthemind, Counsellor in Hill Brow, England
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 Dave Chambers, Counsellor in Hill Brow, England
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 Therapy & Me, Psychotherapist in Hill Brow, England
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 Ekua Edufuah, Counsellor in Hill Brow, England
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 Sukhninder Thiara, Counsellor in Hill Brow, England
Sukhninder Thiara
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Slough SL3  (Online Only)
I provide online counselling. I have extensive expertise as a psychodynamic counsellor. I work with both young people and adults. I have substantial experience working in the NHS, offering counselling services in both inpatient and outpatient settings. This experience provided me with a thorough awareness of the complex mental health requirements of different communities. I provide counselling to members of marginalized populations, such as people who identify as LGBTQIA+ or who are South Asian, Black African or African-Caribbean and are struggling with their sexuality or identity.
I provide online counselling. I have extensive expertise as a psychodynamic counsellor. I work with both young people and adults. I have substantial experience working in the NHS, offering counselling services in both inpatient and outpatient settings. This experience provided me with a thorough awareness of the complex mental health requirements of different communities. I provide counselling to members of marginalized populations, such as people who identify as LGBTQIA+ or who are South Asian, Black African or African-Caribbean and are struggling with their sexuality or identity.
01753 978878 View 01753 978878
Photo of Shirley Archibald-William, Counsellor in Hill Brow, England
Shirley Archibald-William
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
London W13
I want to offer space to exhale, to share, to dissect, to be transparent, to feel refreshed, as you find & accept self! I enjoy working with concerns relating to life's trauma, culture, life of 1st generation black children, self - acceptance, mid-life, relationships, marriages, retirement, grief, & health.
My mantra, "Once we face the things we fear, they no longer have power over us!" So well done for taking your initial steps towards change. We get stuck within our own worlds (especially our past), fearful that we will not be heard or even understood. We find it difficult to dismiss 'noises' that disable our focus on matters we need to change. Though we acknowledge we are fearful, therefore flooding our mindset. We find sanctuary in others peoples words, feelings, emotions, thoughts & continue to dishonor our own as we are fearful for what we mite have to face - demeaning our needs seem so much easier to do than to confront them?
I want to offer space to exhale, to share, to dissect, to be transparent, to feel refreshed, as you find & accept self! I enjoy working with concerns relating to life's trauma, culture, life of 1st generation black children, self - acceptance, mid-life, relationships, marriages, retirement, grief, & health.
My mantra, "Once we face the things we fear, they no longer have power over us!" So well done for taking your initial steps towards change. We get stuck within our own worlds (especially our past), fearful that we will not be heard or even understood. We find it difficult to dismiss 'noises' that disable our focus on matters we need to change. Though we acknowledge we are fearful, therefore flooding our mindset. We find sanctuary in others peoples words, feelings, emotions, thoughts & continue to dishonor our own as we are fearful for what we mite have to face - demeaning our needs seem so much easier to do than to confront them?
020 3835 4612 View 020 3835 4612
Photo of Keziah Cader, Psychotherapist in Hill Brow, England
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

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.