Black and African American Therapists in 91436
Cristal Cunningham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
As a Black, female clinician, I understand these challenges and the associated fear and pain.
Personal growth and overcoming emotional or mental challenges can feel like immovable obstacles. These obstacles may be related to family, loss, relationships, societal / cultural pressures, racism or other traumas. The challenges can cause many symptoms like perfectionism, sadness, isolation, anger, defensiveness, people pleasing, overthinking, weak boundaries, low self-esteem or suicidal thoughts. Unfortunately, we weren't all afforded the opportunity to learn healthy coping skills to manage these symptoms, nor how to recognize or recover from them. Furthermore, openly confronting issues, even in the home, may have been forbidden.
As a Black, female clinician, I understand these challenges and the associated fear and pain.
Personal growth and overcoming emotional or mental challenges can feel like immovable obstacles. These obstacles may be related to family, loss, relationships, societal / cultural pressures, racism or other traumas. The challenges can cause many symptoms like perfectionism, sadness, isolation, anger, defensiveness, people pleasing, overthinking, weak boundaries, low self-esteem or suicidal thoughts. Unfortunately, we weren't all afforded the opportunity to learn healthy coping skills to manage these symptoms, nor how to recognize or recover from them. Furthermore, openly confronting issues, even in the home, may have been forbidden.
Melissa M Shepherd-Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
Training in trauma studies within the African American, Afro Latinx and Latinx communities adds to my offerings in listening with empathy.
As a constantly busy person not tending to yourself because of a tradition of putting yourself last, it can be challenging to pause or ask for help. Something, finally, brought you to a halt and you are starting to give yourself permission to welcome support. I offer my enthusiasm to partner in your journey of identifying strengths, growing from challenges, and building on them. A multicultural background and experience working with clients of diverse narratives and identities help me to remain open to your point of view. I have an extensive history working within the arts community with children, adolescents, and adults.
Training in trauma studies within the African American, Afro Latinx and Latinx communities adds to my offerings in listening with empathy.
As a constantly busy person not tending to yourself because of a tradition of putting yourself last, it can be challenging to pause or ask for help. Something, finally, brought you to a halt and you are starting to give yourself permission to welcome support. I offer my enthusiasm to partner in your journey of identifying strengths, growing from challenges, and building on them. A multicultural background and experience working with clients of diverse narratives and identities help me to remain open to your point of view. I have an extensive history working within the arts community with children, adolescents, and adults.
Maureen Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
Hello! Thank you for taking the first step towards change, growth and healing. I am here to help you in overcoming life’s challenges that are impacting your emotional well-being, your relationships, and your day to day functioning. As an experienced therapist, I am here to support you in identifying the tools and resources you already possess as well as introducing new coping skills to manage a variety of feelings and emotions that are impacting your ability to cope. I believe that everyone has the ability to heal and grow and I work collaboratively with you in your journey to well-being.
Hello! Thank you for taking the first step towards change, growth and healing. I am here to help you in overcoming life’s challenges that are impacting your emotional well-being, your relationships, and your day to day functioning. As an experienced therapist, I am here to support you in identifying the tools and resources you already possess as well as introducing new coping skills to manage a variety of feelings and emotions that are impacting your ability to cope. I believe that everyone has the ability to heal and grow and I work collaboratively with you in your journey to well-being.
Though you move forward daily, you struggle with confidence and experience feelings of fear, anxiety & loneliness. You may feel overwhelmed, unloved, and unseen. While you may not understand how you got off track, you lack a sense of purpose: not finding true happiness in your daily living, difficulty feeling & expressing gratitude, and never truly living in the moment. Past hurt has caused you to build up protective barriers & while they help in some aspects, they also create an inability to connect. You’ve worked hard & accomplished so much, yet you struggle with persistent feelings of self-doubt. You may wonder: Where did "I" go.
Though you move forward daily, you struggle with confidence and experience feelings of fear, anxiety & loneliness. You may feel overwhelmed, unloved, and unseen. While you may not understand how you got off track, you lack a sense of purpose: not finding true happiness in your daily living, difficulty feeling & expressing gratitude, and never truly living in the moment. Past hurt has caused you to build up protective barriers & while they help in some aspects, they also create an inability to connect. You’ve worked hard & accomplished so much, yet you struggle with persistent feelings of self-doubt. You may wonder: Where did "I" go.
Shawn Lare Brinkley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
I am an eclectic therapist, meaning I do not subscribe to any one therapeutic modality as I believe the therapeutic process is fluid and as a clinician, I must be the same. I help you manage depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment disorder, grief/loss, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, children and adolescents navigating the difficulties of adjusting to parent's divorcing and behavioral issues such as oppositional defiance and conduct issues. In an effort to meet my clients where they are, I will take the time needed to examine, with you, the core issues surrounding the problem and assist in developing solutions from that ground work.
I am an eclectic therapist, meaning I do not subscribe to any one therapeutic modality as I believe the therapeutic process is fluid and as a clinician, I must be the same. I help you manage depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment disorder, grief/loss, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, children and adolescents navigating the difficulties of adjusting to parent's divorcing and behavioral issues such as oppositional defiance and conduct issues. In an effort to meet my clients where they are, I will take the time needed to examine, with you, the core issues surrounding the problem and assist in developing solutions from that ground work.
CopeHouse Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436 (Online Only)
We are a group psychotherapy practice offering Telehealth therapy for California residents. Our team is made up of Licensed and Registered Associate Therapists with a variety of different specialties, training, strengths, styles, and identities.
We are a group psychotherapy practice offering Telehealth therapy for California residents. Our team is made up of Licensed and Registered Associate Therapists with a variety of different specialties, training, strengths, styles, and identities.
Keonna Robinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436 (Online Only)
Life, without a doubt, can be burdensome with its obligations and expectations often leaving us feeling stuck, unheard and alone. Between managing the demands of daily stressors it can feel like we're drowning and we forget to take care of ourselves. Yet, the gift of self expression gives us permission to return the love and energy we give outwardly to ourselves. Using strength-based techniques, I work collaboratively with individuals, couples and families seeking lasting relief from the strife's of “adulting”, anxiety, depression and complex trauma.
Life, without a doubt, can be burdensome with its obligations and expectations often leaving us feeling stuck, unheard and alone. Between managing the demands of daily stressors it can feel like we're drowning and we forget to take care of ourselves. Yet, the gift of self expression gives us permission to return the love and energy we give outwardly to ourselves. Using strength-based techniques, I work collaboratively with individuals, couples and families seeking lasting relief from the strife's of “adulting”, anxiety, depression and complex trauma.
Christopher Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436 (Online Only)
You want control of your mind and emotions, but instead they hold you back. They become burdens at just the wrong times. They limit you and lead to mistakes. You over focus on these mistakes and judge yourself. This all seems just outside your control. It’s impacting your performance, your relationships, and how you see yourself. You feel burnt out by this, and you want it to stop now!
You want control of your mind and emotions, but instead they hold you back. They become burdens at just the wrong times. They limit you and lead to mistakes. You over focus on these mistakes and judge yourself. This all seems just outside your control. It’s impacting your performance, your relationships, and how you see yourself. You feel burnt out by this, and you want it to stop now!
Yasmin Saudi
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
I believe that true healing comes from deep, meaningful exploration of the self. As a companion on your inner journey, I strive to create a safe, warm, and trusting environment where you can feel understood, heard, and supported. Our work together will be relational, prioritizing the unique cultural and personal contexts that shape your experience. My goal is to foster growth, resilience, and a deeper connection to your authentic self.
I believe that true healing comes from deep, meaningful exploration of the self. As a companion on your inner journey, I strive to create a safe, warm, and trusting environment where you can feel understood, heard, and supported. Our work together will be relational, prioritizing the unique cultural and personal contexts that shape your experience. My goal is to foster growth, resilience, and a deeper connection to your authentic self.
Are you overwhelmed by the amount of things in life that don't make sense? Even if we don't understand how all of our pieces fit together, therapy can help us navigate those mysterious, sometimes-confounding parts. Perhaps your love life is in shambles, or your family is "a lot to deal with," or anxiety won't let you sleep. Maybe you just feel like a misfit in the world. If you're curious to make more sense of your patterns and habits, emotions and thoughts, your identity, your power, your purpose — exploring that with my clients is what I'm especially gifted for.
Are you overwhelmed by the amount of things in life that don't make sense? Even if we don't understand how all of our pieces fit together, therapy can help us navigate those mysterious, sometimes-confounding parts. Perhaps your love life is in shambles, or your family is "a lot to deal with," or anxiety won't let you sleep. Maybe you just feel like a misfit in the world. If you're curious to make more sense of your patterns and habits, emotions and thoughts, your identity, your power, your purpose — exploring that with my clients is what I'm especially gifted for.
As a therapist, my mission is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. I am committed to guiding and empowering you on your journey towards healing and personal growth. With empathy, compassion, and evidence-based interventions, I will work collaboratively with you to navigate life's challenges, discover your strengths, and cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and resilience. Your well-being is my priority, and I am here to support you every step of the way. I am available on most evenings and weekends for sessions. Call to set up a consultation.
As a therapist, my mission is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. I am committed to guiding and empowering you on your journey towards healing and personal growth. With empathy, compassion, and evidence-based interventions, I will work collaboratively with you to navigate life's challenges, discover your strengths, and cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and resilience. Your well-being is my priority, and I am here to support you every step of the way. I am available on most evenings and weekends for sessions. Call to set up a consultation.
Lauren Ludlow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You want to be present, find ease, and fully enjoy your life and relationship but anxiety, trauma, and big transitions keep getting in the way. You've worked hard to create this life and your relationships. You do your best to "have it all together" for friends, family, colleagues, your partner. In the middle of all the roles, changes, and expectations you've lost yourself, disconnected from your needs, and lost track of your values and joy. Whether it is constant anxiety, imposter syndrome disconnection, or pain that keeps holding you back - you're just done living this way and ready to live more fully.
You want to be present, find ease, and fully enjoy your life and relationship but anxiety, trauma, and big transitions keep getting in the way. You've worked hard to create this life and your relationships. You do your best to "have it all together" for friends, family, colleagues, your partner. In the middle of all the roles, changes, and expectations you've lost yourself, disconnected from your needs, and lost track of your values and joy. Whether it is constant anxiety, imposter syndrome disconnection, or pain that keeps holding you back - you're just done living this way and ready to live more fully.
Troi Jefferson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436 (Online Only)
Do you notice a disconnect lingering between your child and others… maybe even you? Do you struggle to understand why your child is acting out of character or doing things they shouldn’t be doing? Are you finding it difficult to be there for them in ways that are helpful? Negative thoughts and emotions can be experienced from any age, including times that don’t always make sense to many adults and parents. Sometimes the best of intentions can come across as invalidating or belittling, which can result in anxiety, depression, or even trauma.
Do you notice a disconnect lingering between your child and others… maybe even you? Do you struggle to understand why your child is acting out of character or doing things they shouldn’t be doing? Are you finding it difficult to be there for them in ways that are helpful? Negative thoughts and emotions can be experienced from any age, including times that don’t always make sense to many adults and parents. Sometimes the best of intentions can come across as invalidating or belittling, which can result in anxiety, depression, or even trauma.
Tiffany O'Bannon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
"Magic lies in challenging what seems impossible" Carol Moseley Braun Are you going through a stressful situation and happiness seems impossible? Are you trying to heal from a break up and feel lost? Are you successful in your career but your personal relationships are broken? I guide and empower women to develop a healthy relationship with themselves while finding their voice. Establishing boundaries, trauma processing, and addressing behaviors that inhibit your dream life are explored and used as tools for healing.
"Magic lies in challenging what seems impossible" Carol Moseley Braun Are you going through a stressful situation and happiness seems impossible? Are you trying to heal from a break up and feel lost? Are you successful in your career but your personal relationships are broken? I guide and empower women to develop a healthy relationship with themselves while finding their voice. Establishing boundaries, trauma processing, and addressing behaviors that inhibit your dream life are explored and used as tools for healing.
You have to feel better to get better. That may seem obvious, but it really isn't. When I begin to work with a new patient, I have two immediate goals: To get to know this person so we can determine if we're a good match; and if we are, to use my years of experience and skills to target current areas of damage and hurt. People come to therapy in pain — something or many things in their lives aren't working. Our job is to take a breath, appreciate your unique situation, understand when and how current problem(s) became unmanageable or toxic, and then find ways to feel better, more hopeful and clear about how to proceed back to life.
You have to feel better to get better. That may seem obvious, but it really isn't. When I begin to work with a new patient, I have two immediate goals: To get to know this person so we can determine if we're a good match; and if we are, to use my years of experience and skills to target current areas of damage and hurt. People come to therapy in pain — something or many things in their lives aren't working. Our job is to take a breath, appreciate your unique situation, understand when and how current problem(s) became unmanageable or toxic, and then find ways to feel better, more hopeful and clear about how to proceed back to life.
Jacqueline Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436 (Online Only)
I believe in creating a safe and nurturing environment by providing empathy, unconditional positive regard, and a genuine approach in the treatment process. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities in order to meet each individuals unique needs. During my work in the past 14 years, I have been trained to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, relational/intimacy issues, and grief. I also integrate mindfulness meditation, CBT, healthy living practices and family systems techniques as a strategy to facilitate growth, healing, and balance. When we are able to rise out of our suffering, we can then begin the process of self-awakening.
I believe in creating a safe and nurturing environment by providing empathy, unconditional positive regard, and a genuine approach in the treatment process. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities in order to meet each individuals unique needs. During my work in the past 14 years, I have been trained to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, relational/intimacy issues, and grief. I also integrate mindfulness meditation, CBT, healthy living practices and family systems techniques as a strategy to facilitate growth, healing, and balance. When we are able to rise out of our suffering, we can then begin the process of self-awakening.
Kate Loree
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436 (Online Only)
I specialize in non-monogamous, kink, sex worker, and LGBTQ communities. Growth occurs in an atmosphere of respect, compassion and a belief in the human capacity for healing, change and reparation. My approach emphasizes insight, emotional healing, and empowerment to help you reach you highest potential and develop a more gratifying life. Couples/Relationships: Both Imago and Emotionally Focused Therapy heavily influence my work to encourage the strengthening of trust, mutual respect, understanding, intimacy and love. We will work together to untangle confusing thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns to rediscover your capacity to make meaningful choices that are right for you or your relationship.
I specialize in non-monogamous, kink, sex worker, and LGBTQ communities. Growth occurs in an atmosphere of respect, compassion and a belief in the human capacity for healing, change and reparation. My approach emphasizes insight, emotional healing, and empowerment to help you reach you highest potential and develop a more gratifying life. Couples/Relationships: Both Imago and Emotionally Focused Therapy heavily influence my work to encourage the strengthening of trust, mutual respect, understanding, intimacy and love. We will work together to untangle confusing thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns to rediscover your capacity to make meaningful choices that are right for you or your relationship.
We are experiencing times where our identities, whether, personal, relational, racial, or even sexual are called into question and challenges our very way of being. Whether its work, family, or peer-related our stress can sometimes feel debilitating and we feel like we are on the cusp of giving up. In a world that lacks cultural-sensitivity and the ideal is to be self-reliant and independent, sometimes it’s difficult to acknowledge that we are in fact social beings that need help, especially when we are being impacted mental, physically, and emotionally…three aspects of the human experience that society says we need to be intact to thrive.
We are experiencing times where our identities, whether, personal, relational, racial, or even sexual are called into question and challenges our very way of being. Whether its work, family, or peer-related our stress can sometimes feel debilitating and we feel like we are on the cusp of giving up. In a world that lacks cultural-sensitivity and the ideal is to be self-reliant and independent, sometimes it’s difficult to acknowledge that we are in fact social beings that need help, especially when we are being impacted mental, physically, and emotionally…three aspects of the human experience that society says we need to be intact to thrive.
Whether you are struggling with relationship decisions, would like to review previous life choices or need help with parenting, I look forward to assisting you in the process. Client's arrive with divergent treatment needs and ideas about therapy and its function. I encourage my client's take the lead while I support their exploration toward a successful threrapeutic outcome. Sometimes that can be done in 3 or 4 sessions and other times circumstances require more time. It is important that my clients feel safe and I earn their trust.
Whether you are struggling with relationship decisions, would like to review previous life choices or need help with parenting, I look forward to assisting you in the process. Client's arrive with divergent treatment needs and ideas about therapy and its function. I encourage my client's take the lead while I support their exploration toward a successful threrapeutic outcome. Sometimes that can be done in 3 or 4 sessions and other times circumstances require more time. It is important that my clients feel safe and I earn their trust.
Jody Frank West Coast Counseling And Group Therapy Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW, CAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
I love what I do. My job is to listen carefully to what you say or don't say when sharing your story. I want to help you navigate challenging issues that keep you from moving forward by finding your authentic self and voice. I am a directive, interactive, patient therapist and see the therapy as proactive, mutual journey where you will learn to express yourself and be heard. Learn to take the steps toward fulfilling your emotional goals while achieving a feeling of contentment. I return all calls the day that I receive them and if I am unable to help you I will try to direct you. wcccla.com
I love what I do. My job is to listen carefully to what you say or don't say when sharing your story. I want to help you navigate challenging issues that keep you from moving forward by finding your authentic self and voice. I am a directive, interactive, patient therapist and see the therapy as proactive, mutual journey where you will learn to express yourself and be heard. Learn to take the steps toward fulfilling your emotional goals while achieving a feeling of contentment. I return all calls the day that I receive them and if I am unable to help you I will try to direct you. wcccla.com
See more therapy options for 91436
Black and African American Therapists
As an African American, why might I wish to see a therapist who is African American?
African American clients may seek out African American therapists for several reasons, foremost being a sense of cultural understanding and the possibility of shared experiences. Cultural sensitivity and context on the part of the therapist may make it easier to form a therapeutic alliance and to focus on the work of therapy without the need to explain or educate a therapist on cultural matters. It may also be empowering to work with a therapist who shares one’s racial or ethnic background. It is important to note that a therapist who demonstrates cultural sensitivity can be highly effective even if they do not share a client’s background or race.
Can clients benefit from working with a therapist who shares their race or ethnicity?
Yes, having a therapist who shares a client’s race or ethnicity is often valuable, especially if it fosters a strong therapeutic alliance between the two. While training, qualifications, and experience are always important, a strong alliance between client and therapist is a major contributor to therapeutic effectiveness. An alliance is likely to be strengthened with a therapist who has an understanding of a client’s background and perhaps also shared life experiences. It should be noted that many clients form a strong bond with their therapist regardless of their race or ethnicity. This is a personal decision, and it depends on the therapist, the client, and the connection between the two.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with African American clients?
Clients can ask therapists directly about their experience working with clients of diverse backgrounds, including with African American individuals. You may wish to inquire whether a therapist has undertaken training in cultural competence broadly, and how specifically they would ensure that their approach is sensitive to the needs of African American clients. Therapy involves honesty and trust, so it’s best for clients to share concerns about their therapist’s cultural competence at the outset. And a good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals based on the concerns you articulate.
Why is it important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive?
It’s important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive because everyone comes to therapy with a unique background and set of experiences. Being aware of culture and cultural differences between people is important for understanding clients, as is coming to therapy with an open mind, recognizing that the therapist doesn’t necessarily understand everything and that the client can help guide the way.
Who is included in Psychology Today's directory of Black therapists?
The directory of Black therapists includes therapists who have self-identified their ethnicity in their profiles. Psychology Today uses this information to assist clients in finding a therapist who can provide a cultural match. However, not all therapists choose to disclose their ethnicity in their profile, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. In situations where the number of therapists who have identified as Black is limited, the directory will also show therapists who have undergone specific multicultural training or have extensive experience working with clients from relevant cultural backgrounds.