Therapists in San Francisco, CA
Amanda Houston-Hamilton
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMH, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
One of the few doctoral African American therapists in SF, I bring long experience, caring, and skill to many cultures.
My "ideal" patient is ready to make changes s/he has long wanted and feels able to explore the barriers to emotional well-being in partnership with an experienced therapist. Building a healthy relationship in therapy is not only essential to immediate goals, but is a skill that patients take away for use with on-going problem-solving.
One of the few doctoral African American therapists in SF, I bring long experience, caring, and skill to many cultures.
My "ideal" patient is ready to make changes s/he has long wanted and feels able to explore the barriers to emotional well-being in partnership with an experienced therapist. Building a healthy relationship in therapy is not only essential to immediate goals, but is a skill that patients take away for use with on-going problem-solving.
Couture Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109 (Online Only)
Hey Couture Fam! I am Yvonne Lynn also known as The Black Couture Counselor. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Expressive Arts Therapist. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families (Ages 10-17). I LOVE to express how I feel on the inside and the outside. As a creative, I love to bridge the gap between art and traditional talk therapy. Come make a statement with ME!
Hey Couture Fam! I am Yvonne Lynn also known as The Black Couture Counselor. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Expressive Arts Therapist. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and families (Ages 10-17). I LOVE to express how I feel on the inside and the outside. As a creative, I love to bridge the gap between art and traditional talk therapy. Come make a statement with ME!
Meredith Holmes
Psychological Associate, MSW, MSCP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118 (Online Only)
I have lived experience as a Black biracial nonbinary queer neurodivergent person.
I am a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional with over 6 years of experience as a psychotherapist and over 16 years of experience as a social worker. I support and empower clients who have a range of concerns including adjusting to life transitions, relationship challenges, exploring various aspects of identity (i.e., race, sexuality, gender), trauma, grief and loss, navigating the world as a neurodivergent person, and more. When appropriate, I utilize humor in the therapy room, and I also welcome exploring creative ways of healing through avenues such as art, music, and play.
I have lived experience as a Black biracial nonbinary queer neurodivergent person.
I am a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional with over 6 years of experience as a psychotherapist and over 16 years of experience as a social worker. I support and empower clients who have a range of concerns including adjusting to life transitions, relationship challenges, exploring various aspects of identity (i.e., race, sexuality, gender), trauma, grief and loss, navigating the world as a neurodivergent person, and more. When appropriate, I utilize humor in the therapy room, and I also welcome exploring creative ways of healing through avenues such as art, music, and play.
Christhmus (Christopher Chu) Presence
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114 (Online Only)
Offering CA-based Telehealth ideal for BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, &/or People of Color, including white-passing & mixed-race BIPOC. Also welcoming Families & Partnerships with 1 or more BIPOC in regular attendance. I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
Offering CA-based Telehealth ideal for BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, &/or People of Color, including white-passing & mixed-race BIPOC. Also welcoming Families & Partnerships with 1 or more BIPOC in regular attendance. I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
Kadence Mitchell
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
As a Black, queer femme with mixed ancestry, I carry with me both a personal and professional understanding of the systems of oppression and domination that entangle with identity and wreak havoc in our lives. I have specific interest and experience working with those struggling with racial identity, sexual identity and gender identity; those healing from and finding their independence from/within dysfunctional family dynamics; folks who have been affected by intimate partner violence and dating violence; and those seeking to uncover patterns of intergenerational trauma within themselves and their family systems.
As a Black, queer femme with mixed ancestry, I carry with me both a personal and professional understanding of the systems of oppression and domination that entangle with identity and wreak havoc in our lives. I have specific interest and experience working with those struggling with racial identity, sexual identity and gender identity; those healing from and finding their independence from/within dysfunctional family dynamics; folks who have been affected by intimate partner violence and dating violence; and those seeking to uncover patterns of intergenerational trauma within themselves and their family systems.
Fox Eros | The Polyamory Therapist Queer Life And Love
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114 (Online Only)
Fun Facts: I’m pansexual, polyamorous, Black Girl Magic, multi-racial and hella tight with the ancestors.
My name is Fox, aka The Polyamory Therapist, and I am an inclusive, queer, 2slgbtqia+ affirmative Therapist. I’m a loving incandescent BIPOC femme and my nature is deeply empathetic and passionately curious - and still... I will gently challenge you with questions that have kept you stuck. I have a deep passion for working with people on trauma, identity, intimacy, loss, communication, self-worth, shame, sex, life stress and gender discovery. I’m Certified in both Sex Therapy and CNM / ENM and trauma informed. I work with all relationships: monogamy, opening up, open relationships, consensual non-monogamy; polyamory and kink / BDSM.
Fun Facts: I’m pansexual, polyamorous, Black Girl Magic, multi-racial and hella tight with the ancestors.
My name is Fox, aka The Polyamory Therapist, and I am an inclusive, queer, 2slgbtqia+ affirmative Therapist. I’m a loving incandescent BIPOC femme and my nature is deeply empathetic and passionately curious - and still... I will gently challenge you with questions that have kept you stuck. I have a deep passion for working with people on trauma, identity, intimacy, loss, communication, self-worth, shame, sex, life stress and gender discovery. I’m Certified in both Sex Therapy and CNM / ENM and trauma informed. I work with all relationships: monogamy, opening up, open relationships, consensual non-monogamy; polyamory and kink / BDSM.
Cassandra Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
Hello, my name is Cassandra Black and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide a warm, empathic, and sensitive approach for those suffering from trauma, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I welcome holding space for anyone ready for their healing journey. Look forward to working with you. My focus is working with adults ages 18-75. I provide a safe, warm, nurturing tone to all my clients. Clients experience a safe containment that allows them to open up and express their innermost feelings and struggles.
Hello, my name is Cassandra Black and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide a warm, empathic, and sensitive approach for those suffering from trauma, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. I welcome holding space for anyone ready for their healing journey. Look forward to working with you. My focus is working with adults ages 18-75. I provide a safe, warm, nurturing tone to all my clients. Clients experience a safe containment that allows them to open up and express their innermost feelings and struggles.
Bedford Palmer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94101 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a diverse clientele and specialize in providing social justice oriented psychotherapy to Black people and other POC, as well as members of LGBTQIA+ communities. I provide culturally responsive therapy, which focuses on the strengths you already have. I tend to use a cognitive-behavioral theoretical approach (CBT), while also paying attention to your environment and access to social support. I work with you to build a safe space where you can share your experiences without the fear of being judged, and where you can focus on becoming clear about what you want, and how you want to go about making that happen.
I work with a diverse clientele and specialize in providing social justice oriented psychotherapy to Black people and other POC, as well as members of LGBTQIA+ communities. I provide culturally responsive therapy, which focuses on the strengths you already have. I tend to use a cognitive-behavioral theoretical approach (CBT), while also paying attention to your environment and access to social support. I work with you to build a safe space where you can share your experiences without the fear of being judged, and where you can focus on becoming clear about what you want, and how you want to go about making that happen.
Joy360 Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104 (Online Only)
Struggling with IBS, GI problems, or pain is not for the faint of heart. You may feel alone at times, ignored by your doctors, misunderstood by family, & most of all, betrayed by your own body. But Sis, I see you! I am passionate about helping Women, Black, and BIPOC folks heal their body image and relationships with food, cope with the stress associated with medical illness (or exacerbating it!), & create joyful & more fulfilling lives despite their medical concerns or struggles with chronic pain. My name is Jaryn Warren-Brown, and I can't wait to use my mental health and nutrition & wellness background to help you feel good again.
Struggling with IBS, GI problems, or pain is not for the faint of heart. You may feel alone at times, ignored by your doctors, misunderstood by family, & most of all, betrayed by your own body. But Sis, I see you! I am passionate about helping Women, Black, and BIPOC folks heal their body image and relationships with food, cope with the stress associated with medical illness (or exacerbating it!), & create joyful & more fulfilling lives despite their medical concerns or struggles with chronic pain. My name is Jaryn Warren-Brown, and I can't wait to use my mental health and nutrition & wellness background to help you feel good again.
Macala A Lacy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CYT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105 (Online Only)
Hey there! My name is Macala ("muh-kae-luh"; pronouns: she/they) and I strive to make therapy accessible and relevant for Black and queer communities of color. As an EMDR trained yoga psychotherapist, I integrate mindfulness and neuroscience to support your mental health. My practice is rooted in considering you as a whole person - mind, body, spirit, culture, and in relationship to community. Together we will collaborate on a goal, learn practical techniques to improve your wellbeing, and progress at your pace towards growth.
Hey there! My name is Macala ("muh-kae-luh"; pronouns: she/they) and I strive to make therapy accessible and relevant for Black and queer communities of color. As an EMDR trained yoga psychotherapist, I integrate mindfulness and neuroscience to support your mental health. My practice is rooted in considering you as a whole person - mind, body, spirit, culture, and in relationship to community. Together we will collaborate on a goal, learn practical techniques to improve your wellbeing, and progress at your pace towards growth.
Sherlyn Frank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104 (Online Only)
With more than 25 years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in aiding high-achieving Black women grappling with perfectionism, self-doubt, and depression. My approach blends conventional psychotherapeutic and somatic techniques with spiritual practices and tangible lifestyle adjustments. Together, we devise a personalized plan to realign with your innermost desires and rediscover suppressed needs and aspirations.
With more than 25 years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in aiding high-achieving Black women grappling with perfectionism, self-doubt, and depression. My approach blends conventional psychotherapeutic and somatic techniques with spiritual practices and tangible lifestyle adjustments. Together, we devise a personalized plan to realign with your innermost desires and rediscover suppressed needs and aspirations.
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Oludara Adeeyo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94106 (Online Only)
I am ready to connect with you and assist with your mental health journey. My passion: Helping marginalized individuals, especially Black and Brown women, improve their wellness. If you're feeling overwhelmed and exhausted by your current stressors, I got you. My extensive experience working with people from diverse backgrounds, including those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, stress, and more, has allowed me to have a deep understanding of the intersections of race, culture, and mental health.
I am ready to connect with you and assist with your mental health journey. My passion: Helping marginalized individuals, especially Black and Brown women, improve their wellness. If you're feeling overwhelmed and exhausted by your current stressors, I got you. My extensive experience working with people from diverse backgrounds, including those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, stress, and more, has allowed me to have a deep understanding of the intersections of race, culture, and mental health.
Mariam Dion
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94101 (Online Only)
As a queer Black Arab immigrant, I recognize the importance of how social identities can have a great impact on someone's mental health. Even navigating the mental health system can be exhausting and at times disappointing. In my practice, I aim to provide a safe space for people who often struggle to find one due to systemic and social injustices. I assist people in the healing of their trauma and processing difficult experiences as they navigate living in a society that is in itself in need of healing. I am passionate about my work and love being present with my clients through their journey of healing and self-discovery.
As a queer Black Arab immigrant, I recognize the importance of how social identities can have a great impact on someone's mental health. Even navigating the mental health system can be exhausting and at times disappointing. In my practice, I aim to provide a safe space for people who often struggle to find one due to systemic and social injustices. I assist people in the healing of their trauma and processing difficult experiences as they navigate living in a society that is in itself in need of healing. I am passionate about my work and love being present with my clients through their journey of healing and self-discovery.
Tayyibah Chase
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94112 (Online Only)
Drawing from my experience, I specialize in supporting individuals from BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Latino/a/x, Asian, South Asian, and Pacific Islander) communities facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, pregnancy and postpartum concerns, as well as issues related to body image and relationships.
I offer clients a comfortable space to be their authentic selves in a world that often doesn't support authenticity. I believe in the importance of exploring the various aspects of our identities, both visible and invisible. We talk about the impacts of culture and relationships on your emotional well-being. Together we might explore relationship and attachment patterns and identify ways to make shifts. With a background in expressive arts therapy, I utilize creative approaches such as writing and drawing to process emotions. I also introduce practical skill building, so that you have tangible tools to walk away with.
Drawing from my experience, I specialize in supporting individuals from BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Latino/a/x, Asian, South Asian, and Pacific Islander) communities facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, pregnancy and postpartum concerns, as well as issues related to body image and relationships.
I offer clients a comfortable space to be their authentic selves in a world that often doesn't support authenticity. I believe in the importance of exploring the various aspects of our identities, both visible and invisible. We talk about the impacts of culture and relationships on your emotional well-being. Together we might explore relationship and attachment patterns and identify ways to make shifts. With a background in expressive arts therapy, I utilize creative approaches such as writing and drawing to process emotions. I also introduce practical skill building, so that you have tangible tools to walk away with.
Alena Y. N. Gittens
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103 (Online Only)
As a Black, queer, immigrant clinical psychologist I have a deep understanding and appreciation for those who struggle to survive.
Sometimes in life we get overwhelmed, feel stuck, and hopeless. Sometimes it can feel as though things keep piling up against us and it can be hard to feel complete. Some people may experience this emotionally, others more physically. Different things trigger these responses in us and make it hard for us to thrive. Whether it is the pandemic, trauma, depression, anxiety, family or relational conflict, self-esteem issues, racial injustice, or grief, having an outlet to make space for this discomfort can help alleviate the pain and move you towards a place of healing.
As a Black, queer, immigrant clinical psychologist I have a deep understanding and appreciation for those who struggle to survive.
Sometimes in life we get overwhelmed, feel stuck, and hopeless. Sometimes it can feel as though things keep piling up against us and it can be hard to feel complete. Some people may experience this emotionally, others more physically. Different things trigger these responses in us and make it hard for us to thrive. Whether it is the pandemic, trauma, depression, anxiety, family or relational conflict, self-esteem issues, racial injustice, or grief, having an outlet to make space for this discomfort can help alleviate the pain and move you towards a place of healing.
Zaire Flowers
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114 (Online Only)
Are you a Black, Queer, Trans, or differently-abled person ready to live authentically with no regrets? I'll help you build the confidence and self-love that will get you there. Discover a life where self-expression thrives and empowerment reigns! I help people of all genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions overcome their internalized oppression and step into a better future. Learn how to eliminate the emotional obstacles that are blocking the path to your best life. Discover delight, balance, and confidence in your own skin. Change the way you live and experience the life that is rightfully yours!
Are you a Black, Queer, Trans, or differently-abled person ready to live authentically with no regrets? I'll help you build the confidence and self-love that will get you there. Discover a life where self-expression thrives and empowerment reigns! I help people of all genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions overcome their internalized oppression and step into a better future. Learn how to eliminate the emotional obstacles that are blocking the path to your best life. Discover delight, balance, and confidence in your own skin. Change the way you live and experience the life that is rightfully yours!
Alicia Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108 (Online Only)
As a Queer, Black, bicultural, bilingual, first-generation psychologist, I know personally the experience of intersectionality and am passionate about working with others of marginalized identities.
One of the bravest things we can do in life is to seek help when we need it most. It can be difficult to carry our struggles alone, and a true relief to have someone help to hold them. I work with clients experiencing a range of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, school or career issues, navigating parenting, life transitions, family conflict, identity development, discrimination, and existential distress. No matter what is bringing you to therapy right now, the key is a desire and readiness to evolve and to grow. This is what can lead to true healing, and the discovery of your full potential.
As a Queer, Black, bicultural, bilingual, first-generation psychologist, I know personally the experience of intersectionality and am passionate about working with others of marginalized identities.
One of the bravest things we can do in life is to seek help when we need it most. It can be difficult to carry our struggles alone, and a true relief to have someone help to hold them. I work with clients experiencing a range of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, school or career issues, navigating parenting, life transitions, family conflict, identity development, discrimination, and existential distress. No matter what is bringing you to therapy right now, the key is a desire and readiness to evolve and to grow. This is what can lead to true healing, and the discovery of your full potential.
Geinel Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94101 (Online Only)
I primarily work with BlPOC (Black, indigenous, and people of color) working professionals struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, trauma, stress, mood disturbances and issues related to sexual health and wellness.
Are you constantly telling others you’re “fine” when that is the furthest thing from the truth? Do you feel your family, personal and work relationships could be better? Are you constantly telling yourself that you need to get your “ish” together? Whether you want to get support around new changes in your life or to work through problems that have been with you for years, let me support you in your steps towards wellness. I will assist you to uncover some of the assumptions and biases you hold about yourself, and help you break unhealthy cycles you may find yourself stuck in, while discovering and building upon your strengths.
I primarily work with BlPOC (Black, indigenous, and people of color) working professionals struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, trauma, stress, mood disturbances and issues related to sexual health and wellness.
Are you constantly telling others you’re “fine” when that is the furthest thing from the truth? Do you feel your family, personal and work relationships could be better? Are you constantly telling yourself that you need to get your “ish” together? Whether you want to get support around new changes in your life or to work through problems that have been with you for years, let me support you in your steps towards wellness. I will assist you to uncover some of the assumptions and biases you hold about yourself, and help you break unhealthy cycles you may find yourself stuck in, while discovering and building upon your strengths.
Rickey A Bates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
Waitlist for new clients
I have been in practice as a psychotherapist for over 7 years. My Master’s in Social Work focused on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality and how our different life experiences shape and influence how we navigate our surroundings. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous Person of Color) & LGBTQIA, and a veteran of the United States Armed Forces, some of my approaches in helping my clients identify their challenges and barriers to their identified problems start from a person-centered approach by discovering who they are and what they need and want in life.
I have been in practice as a psychotherapist for over 7 years. My Master’s in Social Work focused on Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality and how our different life experiences shape and influence how we navigate our surroundings. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous Person of Color) & LGBTQIA, and a veteran of the United States Armed Forces, some of my approaches in helping my clients identify their challenges and barriers to their identified problems start from a person-centered approach by discovering who they are and what they need and want in life.
James Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94101 (Online Only)
My perspective as a genderqueer, black, and Mexican person informs my practice lens and use queer and feminist theories in my clinical training.
Are you and your partner(s) looking for counseling? Whether due to stress outside the relationship, wanting to feel closer to each other, or repairing a rupture from cheating, I can support you through your relationship journey. As a marriage and family therapist, I firmly believe in the transformative power of relationships, but that doesn’t mean they are easy to navigate alone. All relationship orientations are welcome- dating, married, nonmonagamous/poly — I have experience working with these. I’m aware of the societal shame towards poly folks and my practice works to undo any shame in relationship counseling.
My perspective as a genderqueer, black, and Mexican person informs my practice lens and use queer and feminist theories in my clinical training.
Are you and your partner(s) looking for counseling? Whether due to stress outside the relationship, wanting to feel closer to each other, or repairing a rupture from cheating, I can support you through your relationship journey. As a marriage and family therapist, I firmly believe in the transformative power of relationships, but that doesn’t mean they are easy to navigate alone. All relationship orientations are welcome- dating, married, nonmonagamous/poly — I have experience working with these. I’m aware of the societal shame towards poly folks and my practice works to undo any shame in relationship counseling.
See more therapy options for San Francisco
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for San Francisco
- Alameda
- Albany
- Berkeley
- Daly City
- El Cerrito
- Emeryville
- Mill Valley
- Oakland
- Pacifica
- Piedmont
- Sausalito
- South San Francisco
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.