Photo of Lydia Browne, Counsellor in Northamptonshire, 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 A&F Psychological Services Ltd, Psychologist in Northamptonshire, England
A&F Psychological Services Ltd
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Verified Verified
We understand that everyday life is stressful and have worked to make our services as flexible as possible, and adapted to your needs. Our aim is to provide quality assessment, support and psychology services for individuals and their families, to improve mental and emotional well-being. We're a collection of chartered and HCPC registered Psychologists experienced in working with adult and adolescent clients. Our clinicians can support you with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, phobias, and OCD.
We understand that everyday life is stressful and have worked to make our services as flexible as possible, and adapted to your needs. Our aim is to provide quality assessment, support and psychology services for individuals and their families, to improve mental and emotional well-being. We're a collection of chartered and HCPC registered Psychologists experienced in working with adult and adolescent clients. Our clinicians can support you with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, phobias, and OCD.
01536 907319 View 01536 907319
Photo of Wellbeing Co Therapy and Coaching, Psychotherapist in Northamptonshire, England
Wellbeing Co Therapy and Coaching
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I offer evidence based psychological therapies in line with NICE guidelines for the treatment of anxiety presentations (generalised anxiety disorder, low self-esteem, panic, health anxiety, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, childhood sexual abuse/ neglect, long health terms conditions and obsessive compulsive disorder) and depression. The problem does not have to diagnosed, it can be factors contributing to mental distress such as work stress and overwhelm, finances, bullying, gender identity, relationship difficulties, bereavement, discrimination and racism.
I offer evidence based psychological therapies in line with NICE guidelines for the treatment of anxiety presentations (generalised anxiety disorder, low self-esteem, panic, health anxiety, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, childhood sexual abuse/ neglect, long health terms conditions and obsessive compulsive disorder) and depression. The problem does not have to diagnosed, it can be factors contributing to mental distress such as work stress and overwhelm, finances, bullying, gender identity, relationship difficulties, bereavement, discrimination and racism.
01536 907774 View 01536 907774
Photo of Dr Niollie Brown, Psychologist in Northamptonshire, England
Dr Niollie Brown
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Northampton NN4  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychologist with experience working in a range of settings in the NHS, which include community, outpatient, inpatient and forensic mental health services. I completed my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2011 at the University of East London. I am also a family therapist and completed my MSc in Systemic and Family Psychotherapy in 2016 at the Institute of Family Therapy/University of Bedfordshire. Throughout my career I have worked with people of all ages but, more recently, mainly work with adults and older adults.
I am a clinical psychologist with experience working in a range of settings in the NHS, which include community, outpatient, inpatient and forensic mental health services. I completed my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2011 at the University of East London. I am also a family therapist and completed my MSc in Systemic and Family Psychotherapy in 2016 at the Institute of Family Therapy/University of Bedfordshire. Throughout my career I have worked with people of all ages but, more recently, mainly work with adults and older adults.
01604 279770 View 01604 279770
Photo of Shaheen Walker - Counsellor - Relationship And Psychosexual Therapist, Counsellor in Northamptonshire, England
Shaheen Walker - Counsellor - Relationship And Psychosexual Therapist
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hi - are you feeling stuck? Repeating the same patterns of behaviour again and again in your life or relationship and going around in circles? Do you feel a lack of love/respect with your partner or someone close to you? Is sex/intimacy an issue but you’re not quite sure how to approach it? Perhaps trauma, life changes, neurodiversity (adhd/asc) or difficult times have led to anxiety/depression, the trust has gone, or you're feeling sad, angry, lonely, stressed, numb, or just not sure what you feel anymore? I provide a safe, non-judgmental space helping people to improve on their personal wellbeing and relationships.
Hi - are you feeling stuck? Repeating the same patterns of behaviour again and again in your life or relationship and going around in circles? Do you feel a lack of love/respect with your partner or someone close to you? Is sex/intimacy an issue but you’re not quite sure how to approach it? Perhaps trauma, life changes, neurodiversity (adhd/asc) or difficult times have led to anxiety/depression, the trust has gone, or you're feeling sad, angry, lonely, stressed, numb, or just not sure what you feel anymore? I provide a safe, non-judgmental space helping people to improve on their personal wellbeing and relationships.
01895 545137 View 01895 545137
Photo of Wanjiru Macharia, Psychotherapist in Northamptonshire, England
Wanjiru Macharia
Psychotherapist, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a registered, accredited and qualified counsellor and psychotherapist. I offer therapy on ways to cope with various life challenges such as:- self-harm, confidence issues, low self- esteem, depression, anxiety, bereavement, behavioural issues, sensory and anger management. I respect clients’ views; I am non-judgemental in my approaches and I always maintain confidentiality. The sessions are mostly client led. I believe in giving each client the opportunity to express themselves in ways they feel comfortable. This helps to facilitate the client's progress and recovery.
I am a registered, accredited and qualified counsellor and psychotherapist. I offer therapy on ways to cope with various life challenges such as:- self-harm, confidence issues, low self- esteem, depression, anxiety, bereavement, behavioural issues, sensory and anger management. I respect clients’ views; I am non-judgemental in my approaches and I always maintain confidentiality. The sessions are mostly client led. I believe in giving each client the opportunity to express themselves in ways they feel comfortable. This helps to facilitate the client's progress and recovery.
01604 422159 View 01604 422159
Photo of Anne Kariuki, Psychologist in Northamptonshire, England
Anne Kariuki
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
My aim is to offer a safe space where we can explore whatever you choose to. Together we can work through any issues you may have. I believe that you are the expert on you and we can work towards a future you decide. ​ You may be facing some personal difficulties or struggles that you wish could be resolved. These might be a persistent low mood, a recurrent anxiety, a recent or past traumatic experience, a lack of meaning or direction in life, an anger issue, the loss of a loved one a relationship breakdown, a feeling of guilt or shame, a difficult life transition, or a more enduring and chronic mental health difficulty. ​
My aim is to offer a safe space where we can explore whatever you choose to. Together we can work through any issues you may have. I believe that you are the expert on you and we can work towards a future you decide. ​ You may be facing some personal difficulties or struggles that you wish could be resolved. These might be a persistent low mood, a recurrent anxiety, a recent or past traumatic experience, a lack of meaning or direction in life, an anger issue, the loss of a loved one a relationship breakdown, a feeling of guilt or shame, a difficult life transition, or a more enduring and chronic mental health difficulty. ​
0121 817 7588 View 0121 817 7588
Photo of Hope Therapy & Counselling Services, Counsellor in Northamptonshire, England
Hope Therapy & Counselling Services
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
I am a skilled Counsellor specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Counseling Supervision. With a Bachelor's degree in CBT, a Diploma in Counselling, and a Level 7 Postgraduate qualification in Counselling Supervision, I am dedicated to providing personalised support for challenges such as anxiety, depression, anger management, relationship issues, self-confidence, and self-esteem. Qualifications: BSc in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): My academic foundation equips me with principles and techniques for addressing cognitive and behavioural patterns linked to mental health concerns.
I am a skilled Counsellor specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Counseling Supervision. With a Bachelor's degree in CBT, a Diploma in Counselling, and a Level 7 Postgraduate qualification in Counselling Supervision, I am dedicated to providing personalised support for challenges such as anxiety, depression, anger management, relationship issues, self-confidence, and self-esteem. Qualifications: BSc in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): My academic foundation equips me with principles and techniques for addressing cognitive and behavioural patterns linked to mental health concerns.
07480 559808 View 07480 559808
Photo of Tracey Peabody, Counsellor in Northamptonshire, England
Tracey Peabody
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
I am a CBT and Person-Centred counsellor bringing kindness, compassion, and empathy to your emotional needs. Are you overwhelmed, and life is just getting on top of you? Are you struggling with managing difficult emotions; feelings of lack of self-worth, loneliness, or other mental health issues and don’t know where to turn for support? Sometimes we all need a helping hand. By bringing heartfelt empathy to your issues, we can build a powerful and healing therapeutic relationship to help you discover your potential and capacity for change.
I am a CBT and Person-Centred counsellor bringing kindness, compassion, and empathy to your emotional needs. Are you overwhelmed, and life is just getting on top of you? Are you struggling with managing difficult emotions; feelings of lack of self-worth, loneliness, or other mental health issues and don’t know where to turn for support? Sometimes we all need a helping hand. By bringing heartfelt empathy to your issues, we can build a powerful and healing therapeutic relationship to help you discover your potential and capacity for change.
01788 228353 View 01788 228353
Photo of Elizabeth Clarke, Psychotherapist in Northamptonshire, England
Elizabeth Clarke
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Not accepting new clients
I aim to put your interests first, respect your autonomy and confidentiality, and value diversity; all within clear ethical boundaries. I welcome different ways of being so if you like to speak a lot, enjoy moments of silence, want to doodle, draw mind maps, make notes etc.; you can do so in our sessions. Clients experience relief that they can be themselves whether that’s feeling sad, happy, angry, despondent, confused or other emotions. I have been described as being inviting, warm, understanding and down to earth.
I aim to put your interests first, respect your autonomy and confidentiality, and value diversity; all within clear ethical boundaries. I welcome different ways of being so if you like to speak a lot, enjoy moments of silence, want to doodle, draw mind maps, make notes etc.; you can do so in our sessions. Clients experience relief that they can be themselves whether that’s feeling sad, happy, angry, despondent, confused or other emotions. I have been described as being inviting, warm, understanding and down to earth.
01858 457162 View 01858 457162

Online Therapists

Photo of Lebo Molefe, Counsellor in Northamptonshire, England
Lebo Molefe
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
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 Pauline Ferguson, Psychotherapist in Northamptonshire, 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 Danielle Westcarr-Jourdan, Counsellor in Northamptonshire, England
Danielle Westcarr-Jourdan
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
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 Sylvia Anim UK Based psycho(sexual) Therapist , Psychotherapist in Northamptonshire, 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 Therapy & Me, Psychotherapist in Northamptonshire, England
Therapy & Me
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
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 Inclusion Psychologists Limited, Psychologist in Northamptonshire, England
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 Dave Chambers, Counsellor in Northamptonshire, England
Dave Chambers
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Manchester M1  (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 Healingthemind, Counsellor in Northamptonshire, 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 Maurhys Phillips, Counsellor in Northamptonshire, England
Maurhys Phillips
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 Denise James, Counsellor in Northamptonshire, 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

See more therapy options for Northamptonshire

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.