Black and African American Therapists in Miami, FL

Photo of Raina Edwards, LMHC, CGFS, Counselor
Raina Edwards
Counselor, LMHC, CGFS
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33160  (Online Only)
As the founder of Encompassing You Counseling my goal is to create an open and affirming space for Black bodies, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and those creating healthy non-traditional relationships. If you are going through life and do not feel you have the sense of control you wanted, this is the time for us to connect. Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and trauma are common issues that can impact your day to day lives and relationships. If you want to know more about how to navigate these, or other issues, let's connect for a consultation and discuss further.
As the founder of Encompassing You Counseling my goal is to create an open and affirming space for Black bodies, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and those creating healthy non-traditional relationships. If you are going through life and do not feel you have the sense of control you wanted, this is the time for us to connect. Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and trauma are common issues that can impact your day to day lives and relationships. If you want to know more about how to navigate these, or other issues, let's connect for a consultation and discuss further.
(786) 882-5047 View (786) 882-5047
Photo of Jose Bermudez - Optimal Living Center, PsyD, Psychologist
Optimal Living Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33173
Ever wondered if there's a different way to approach therapy? If you're curious about integrating your faith into the counseling process, you're in the right place. As a Black and Hispanic man, I understand the importance of finding culturally sensitive and empathetic support. With a background rooted in Christian faith, I offer a unique approach to therapy that combines traditional techniques with faith-based counseling. Prioritizing the integration of mind, body, and spirit helps you become the best version of yourself.
Ever wondered if there's a different way to approach therapy? If you're curious about integrating your faith into the counseling process, you're in the right place. As a Black and Hispanic man, I understand the importance of finding culturally sensitive and empathetic support. With a background rooted in Christian faith, I offer a unique approach to therapy that combines traditional techniques with faith-based counseling. Prioritizing the integration of mind, body, and spirit helps you become the best version of yourself.
(786) 574-3911 View (786) 574-3911
Photo of Trenye Black - Married to Navy Counseling Services, PhD, LMHC-QS, LPCC, LPC-S, NCC, Counselor
Married to Navy Counseling Services
Counselor, PhD, LMHC-QS, LPCC, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33199  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Not Accepting Clients- - - Dr. Black is accepting clients who are primarily interested in EMDR therapy with sprinkles of talk therapy. To experience our deepest recesses of joy and peace, we must first have the courage to face our fears. You've spent quite some time trying to redefine your life, but still falling short. You've committed so much of yourself to others, now it's time to commit to you! Whatever your situation, our goal is to help you find clarity, purpose, and strength.
Not Accepting Clients- - - Dr. Black is accepting clients who are primarily interested in EMDR therapy with sprinkles of talk therapy. To experience our deepest recesses of joy and peace, we must first have the courage to face our fears. You've spent quite some time trying to redefine your life, but still falling short. You've committed so much of yourself to others, now it's time to commit to you! Whatever your situation, our goal is to help you find clarity, purpose, and strength.
(904) 587-4806 View (904) 587-4806
Photo of Natika Johnson | Black Female Therapist Texas And Florida, LPC, LCDC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natika Johnson | Black Female Therapist Texas And Florida
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
Overwhelmed with anxiety? Exhausted and depressed? Relationship stuck in a negative cycle? It's no coincidence that you found me! I specialize in helping high-achieving Black women and couples get unstuck, navigate through life challenges, transform their relationships, and accomplish their goals individually and collectively. You deserve healing, peace, and healthy relationships. You want to stop merely existing and start living. Ready to reclaim your power? I am here for YOU! Click "my website" to learn how you can book an individual or couples therapy session today.
Overwhelmed with anxiety? Exhausted and depressed? Relationship stuck in a negative cycle? It's no coincidence that you found me! I specialize in helping high-achieving Black women and couples get unstuck, navigate through life challenges, transform their relationships, and accomplish their goals individually and collectively. You deserve healing, peace, and healthy relationships. You want to stop merely existing and start living. Ready to reclaim your power? I am here for YOU! Click "my website" to learn how you can book an individual or couples therapy session today.
(281) 609-3737 View (281) 609-3737
Photo of LaTranette Long - Love and Empathy Counseling, LLC, LMHC-QS, LPC, CCATP, Counselor
Love and Empathy Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LMHC-QS, LPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33109
Being African American mental health professionals, Love and Empathy Counseling is dedicated to helping individuals in the BIPOC community overcome obstacles and improve their quality of life by empowering them to manage their thoughts and relationships.
Are you facing challenges with depression and anxiety in your daily life? If you experience a lack of motivation, frequent irritability, uncertainty, and feel misunderstood, you may be seeking a non-judgmental environment where you can freely express your thoughts and feelings. People dealing with depression and anxiety seek support, understanding, and the necessary tools to enhance their mental health and well-being.
Being African American mental health professionals, Love and Empathy Counseling is dedicated to helping individuals in the BIPOC community overcome obstacles and improve their quality of life by empowering them to manage their thoughts and relationships.
Are you facing challenges with depression and anxiety in your daily life? If you experience a lack of motivation, frequent irritability, uncertainty, and feel misunderstood, you may be seeking a non-judgmental environment where you can freely express your thoughts and feelings. People dealing with depression and anxiety seek support, understanding, and the necessary tools to enhance their mental health and well-being.
(813) 536-4119 View (813) 536-4119
Photo of Valerie Dorsainvil - Valerie Carmel Therapy LLC, LCSW, CCTP, CCATP, CTMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie Carmel Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CCATP, CTMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33185  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Valerie Carmel and I am the owner and lead therapist at Valerie Carmel Therapy, LLC. We are a virtual therapy practice in Florida and Nevada. We pride ourselves in supporting Black female entrepreneurs and leaders in managing and beating the burnout of being the BOSS. Our areas of expertise include anxiety, trauma, depression, and stress management. Our approach is built on my Mental Wellness formula that prioritizes self-care, self-awareness and self-growth. The goal is to teach you the tools to overcome the obstacles which impact your business and life goals.
Welcome! My name is Valerie Carmel and I am the owner and lead therapist at Valerie Carmel Therapy, LLC. We are a virtual therapy practice in Florida and Nevada. We pride ourselves in supporting Black female entrepreneurs and leaders in managing and beating the burnout of being the BOSS. Our areas of expertise include anxiety, trauma, depression, and stress management. Our approach is built on my Mental Wellness formula that prioritizes self-care, self-awareness and self-growth. The goal is to teach you the tools to overcome the obstacles which impact your business and life goals.
(407) 214-4523 View (407) 214-4523
Photo of Rev. Dr. Tommie Watkins Jr, PhD, LMSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rev. Dr. Tommie Watkins Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33139
Given I am black gay male clergy person, I am competent in working with those individuals with needs to address conflicting sexuality and sexual orientation issues-LGBTQIA+ Community Members.
My ideal client is one that perhaps is dealing with feelings of fear, anger, envy, uncertainty, depression, perhaps amplified by strong religious convictions and spiritual uncertainty. They are particularly uncomfortable with being vulnerable often negligent in discussing feelings and issues of religion and spirituality, but will allow a few conversations to explore what their particular and specific issues and beliefs may be, including past traumas and sexual abuse issues. This client would be open to exploring their spirituality (not religion) as a means of developing and improving coping skills and spiritual strategies.
Given I am black gay male clergy person, I am competent in working with those individuals with needs to address conflicting sexuality and sexual orientation issues-LGBTQIA+ Community Members.
My ideal client is one that perhaps is dealing with feelings of fear, anger, envy, uncertainty, depression, perhaps amplified by strong religious convictions and spiritual uncertainty. They are particularly uncomfortable with being vulnerable often negligent in discussing feelings and issues of religion and spirituality, but will allow a few conversations to explore what their particular and specific issues and beliefs may be, including past traumas and sexual abuse issues. This client would be open to exploring their spirituality (not religion) as a means of developing and improving coping skills and spiritual strategies.
(205) 772-8080 View (205) 772-8080
Photo of Jasmine Jenkins, PhD, Psychologist
Jasmine Jenkins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33101  (Online Only)
I am the 1st Black DBT-Linehan Board Certified therapist in the state of Texas (and I practice in 40+ states), and I conduct DBT training through the Treatment Implementation Collaborative (TIC).
Hi! I’m Dr. Jasmine Jenkins, but my clients usually call me Jasmine, Doc, or Dr. J. I am a multiculturally focused licensed psychologist and the founder of Rejuvenate! I specialize in group treatment for people of color who want to heal, learn new skills, and build a life of wellness. Although I am currently focused on groups, in individual therapy, I work with people who: 1) “just need a person/professional to talk to,” 2) Desire help with mild mental health symptoms, 3) Struggle with emotion regulation and/or want to find a reason to stay alive. → these individuals usually benefit from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I am the 1st Black DBT-Linehan Board Certified therapist in the state of Texas (and I practice in 40+ states), and I conduct DBT training through the Treatment Implementation Collaborative (TIC).
Hi! I’m Dr. Jasmine Jenkins, but my clients usually call me Jasmine, Doc, or Dr. J. I am a multiculturally focused licensed psychologist and the founder of Rejuvenate! I specialize in group treatment for people of color who want to heal, learn new skills, and build a life of wellness. Although I am currently focused on groups, in individual therapy, I work with people who: 1) “just need a person/professional to talk to,” 2) Desire help with mild mental health symptoms, 3) Struggle with emotion regulation and/or want to find a reason to stay alive. → these individuals usually benefit from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
(512) 607-7894 View (512) 607-7894
Photo of Robert Allen Bailey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert Allen Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33132
Peace and love fam! I'm a healing healer who combines my personal insights from my own healing journey with my clinical expertise and spiritual wisdom to continually refine medicine for others. My life's mission is to help heal minds and souls in the Black community, but everyone is welcome. I specialize in relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, male issues and PTSD. I also have some niche expertise with clients suffering medical issues and religious trauma. If you've been feeling stuck, hopeless, overwhelmed, ashamed, lost or anything of the sort. Welcome! I'd love to help.
Peace and love fam! I'm a healing healer who combines my personal insights from my own healing journey with my clinical expertise and spiritual wisdom to continually refine medicine for others. My life's mission is to help heal minds and souls in the Black community, but everyone is welcome. I specialize in relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, male issues and PTSD. I also have some niche expertise with clients suffering medical issues and religious trauma. If you've been feeling stuck, hopeless, overwhelmed, ashamed, lost or anything of the sort. Welcome! I'd love to help.
(954) 335-5426 View (954) 335-5426
Photo of Allegra Wyatt, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allegra Wyatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33102
I specialize in working with those who have experienced various forms of trauma. Often trauma profoundly affects how we treat ourselves and others, and makes it difficult to feel at home in our bodies. In our work together we will explore how to reconnect with your body and foster a greater sense of choice in your life. I work to build healing relationships and hold spaces of care, growth, and deep rest for and with Q+BIPOC folks, particularly queer Black women, femmes, and mixed race people. I support those I work with in carving out spaces for freedom, joy, and choice while navigating multiple oppressive forces.
I specialize in working with those who have experienced various forms of trauma. Often trauma profoundly affects how we treat ourselves and others, and makes it difficult to feel at home in our bodies. In our work together we will explore how to reconnect with your body and foster a greater sense of choice in your life. I work to build healing relationships and hold spaces of care, growth, and deep rest for and with Q+BIPOC folks, particularly queer Black women, femmes, and mixed race people. I support those I work with in carving out spaces for freedom, joy, and choice while navigating multiple oppressive forces.
(470) 745-2203 View (470) 745-2203
Photo of Dr. Reuben Faloughi, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Reuben Faloughi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33122  (Online Only)
Dr. Reuben, a renown clinical and liberation psychologist, uses an integrative therapeutic style (i.e. "whatever is most helpful") to treat anxiety, depression, and trauma. His clients are high achievers and performers (leaders, executives, and athletes) and people from marginalized communities (women, Black people/people of color, etc.).
Dr. Reuben, a renown clinical and liberation psychologist, uses an integrative therapeutic style (i.e. "whatever is most helpful") to treat anxiety, depression, and trauma. His clients are high achievers and performers (leaders, executives, and athletes) and people from marginalized communities (women, Black people/people of color, etc.).
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Photo of Bianca Williams - Bianca Williams - Adults w/Childhood Trauma Expert, MS, LPC, MHSP-S, CMHC, CAPM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bianca Williams - Adults w/Childhood Trauma Expert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP-S, CMHC, CAPM
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33162  (Online Only)
Start therapy with a limited time special of $130 for 1st 3 sessions. Schedule a consultation at bianca-williams.clientsecure.me/request/service. I support high achieving black adults and couples, who are navigating day to day life changes such as family/friend relationships, stress management, and childhood trauma that still affects you. You deserve to heal, have healthy relationships and have inner peace. Therapy is a collaborative journey that you do not have to navigate alone. I offer therapy, speaking, trainings, self-paced programs, and a signature group program for black women. Learn more -> www.biancawilliamslpc.com/links
Start therapy with a limited time special of $130 for 1st 3 sessions. Schedule a consultation at bianca-williams.clientsecure.me/request/service. I support high achieving black adults and couples, who are navigating day to day life changes such as family/friend relationships, stress management, and childhood trauma that still affects you. You deserve to heal, have healthy relationships and have inner peace. Therapy is a collaborative journey that you do not have to navigate alone. I offer therapy, speaking, trainings, self-paced programs, and a signature group program for black women. Learn more -> www.biancawilliamslpc.com/links
(615) 802-5730 View (615) 802-5730
Photo of Abey Adams, LMHC, Counselor
Abey Adams
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33133  (Online Only)
Throughout my career, I've had the honor of working with Black women with an emphasis on anxiety and depression, as well as serving as the lead therapist for a short-term residential treatment program for people with major mental illnesses.
I am a caring therapist who is dedicated to "Helping Others Win" by assisting and empowering individuals on their path to healing and self-discovery. I develop a strategy that is adapted to each client's specific requirements. I've worked with people to help them deal with stress and anxiety, as well as motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe you are the expert on your narrative and that you have numerous strengths that will help you overcome obstacles.
Throughout my career, I've had the honor of working with Black women with an emphasis on anxiety and depression, as well as serving as the lead therapist for a short-term residential treatment program for people with major mental illnesses.
I am a caring therapist who is dedicated to "Helping Others Win" by assisting and empowering individuals on their path to healing and self-discovery. I develop a strategy that is adapted to each client's specific requirements. I've worked with people to help them deal with stress and anxiety, as well as motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe you are the expert on your narrative and that you have numerous strengths that will help you overcome obstacles.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Janice Griffin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janice Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33131  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Janice. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Palm Beach County. I was born and raised in a traditional African-American family in Southeast Florida. My parents were hard-working people and promoted values of responsibility, honesty, and the ability to care for others. I enjoy listening to smooth jazz and am an avid reader, mostly of spiritual and life-enhancing material. I have 11 years of experience in the mental/behavioral health field; received both a B.A. in Psychology and Masters of Social Work from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. In a prior life, I worked as a Licensed Mortgage Broker.
Hello! My name is Janice. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Palm Beach County. I was born and raised in a traditional African-American family in Southeast Florida. My parents were hard-working people and promoted values of responsibility, honesty, and the ability to care for others. I enjoy listening to smooth jazz and am an avid reader, mostly of spiritual and life-enhancing material. I have 11 years of experience in the mental/behavioral health field; received both a B.A. in Psychology and Masters of Social Work from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. In a prior life, I worked as a Licensed Mortgage Broker.
(786) 891-5026 View (786) 891-5026
Photo of Dr. Calvin J. Fitch, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Calvin J. Fitch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33132  (Online Only)
As a gay Black man, I've used many of the techniques I teach for navigating stigma related to being gay, being Black, and being Black AND gay.
My clients are gay and bisexual men who have needed to mask their authentic selves because their identities were not embraced by the world. They often find they are doing well in achievement-based activities (work, school, sports), but deep down they still do not feel good enough or worthy. This is because while the mask allowed them to dodge potential rejection and societally-inflicted shame, it also distanced them farther from their authentic selves. Many of my clients read the "Velvet Rage" and felt seen, but were left wanting actionable strategies that will help them break the shackles of shame and embrace self-compassion.
As a gay Black man, I've used many of the techniques I teach for navigating stigma related to being gay, being Black, and being Black AND gay.
My clients are gay and bisexual men who have needed to mask their authentic selves because their identities were not embraced by the world. They often find they are doing well in achievement-based activities (work, school, sports), but deep down they still do not feel good enough or worthy. This is because while the mask allowed them to dodge potential rejection and societally-inflicted shame, it also distanced them farther from their authentic selves. Many of my clients read the "Velvet Rage" and felt seen, but were left wanting actionable strategies that will help them break the shackles of shame and embrace self-compassion.
(617) 370-8996 View (617) 370-8996
Photo of Brian Jones, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33147
I understand that seeking therapy can be a vulnerable and courageous step and as a black male therapist, I prioritize creating a space that is affirming, safe, and non-judgmental to clients of all backgrounds.
Welcome to my Psychology Today profile! My goal, as a therapist, is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your emotions, behaviors, and experiences in life. My passion in my therapy work centers around helping people navigate the challenges of living with Adult ADHD, Anxiety, CPTSD, Trauma, Codependency, and Communication/trust issues in relationships. I also have had success in treating erectile dysfunction concerns. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, but I also recognize the importance of tailoring treatment to each individual's specific needs and values.
I understand that seeking therapy can be a vulnerable and courageous step and as a black male therapist, I prioritize creating a space that is affirming, safe, and non-judgmental to clients of all backgrounds.
Welcome to my Psychology Today profile! My goal, as a therapist, is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your emotions, behaviors, and experiences in life. My passion in my therapy work centers around helping people navigate the challenges of living with Adult ADHD, Anxiety, CPTSD, Trauma, Codependency, and Communication/trust issues in relationships. I also have had success in treating erectile dysfunction concerns. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, but I also recognize the importance of tailoring treatment to each individual's specific needs and values.
(484) 218-2987 View (484) 218-2987
Photo of Cecily Moore, LCMHC, Counselor
Cecily Moore
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
I have also conducted a research study and developed and framework for working with Black professional women in treatment.
Hello, my name is Dr. Moore. I am passionate about mental health and I specialize in treating depression, race based trauma, and helping folks with career related concerns.
I have also conducted a research study and developed and framework for working with Black professional women in treatment.
Hello, my name is Dr. Moore. I am passionate about mental health and I specialize in treating depression, race based trauma, and helping folks with career related concerns.
(786) 765-5302 View (786) 765-5302
Photo of Jean Pappalardo - Be Curious Therapy, Jean Pappalardo, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Be Curious Therapy, Jean Pappalardo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33131  (Online Only)
I work with clients in CA and FL. I provide individual (not couples) therapy to curious people who are ready to get to work! I specialize in working with Black, POC, & LGBTQIA+ individuals and Fat/bigger-bodied people of all genders.
I work with clients in CA and FL. I provide individual (not couples) therapy to curious people who are ready to get to work! I specialize in working with Black, POC, & LGBTQIA+ individuals and Fat/bigger-bodied people of all genders.
(310) 425-3783 View (310) 425-3783
Photo of Nizammah S Ward - Nizammah Ward, LMHC, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Nizammah Ward, LMHC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33149
Do you find it difficult to ask for help? Asking for assistance doesn't equate to weakness, it's actually a strength! As an African American / Caribean counselor I am able to serve my community with relatable shared experiences. I pride myself on encouraging my clients to see and be the light that is already within them. I use an integrative approach in that each individual is unique and processes thoughts differently. Mindfulness-based CBT allows clients to find peace within themselves through grounding. This heightened awareness of self enables us to live in accordance with our values even in the face of opposition.
Do you find it difficult to ask for help? Asking for assistance doesn't equate to weakness, it's actually a strength! As an African American / Caribean counselor I am able to serve my community with relatable shared experiences. I pride myself on encouraging my clients to see and be the light that is already within them. I use an integrative approach in that each individual is unique and processes thoughts differently. Mindfulness-based CBT allows clients to find peace within themselves through grounding. This heightened awareness of self enables us to live in accordance with our values even in the face of opposition.
(727) 263-2220 View (727) 263-2220
Photo of Katherine Douglas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Douglas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33129  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Katherine Douglas. I understand life doesn't always go as planned and you might feel like you've lost your way. Sometimes you may experience current or unresolved trauma. Maybe you're a part of the Black or Caribbean community and have specific cultural experiences you're trying to navigate. All which can lead to, relationship troubles, anxiety issues or feelings of depression. These issues can hinder you from being your best self. Imagine waking up and feeling peace and balance within your relationship or overall life. I am passionate in helping you achieve your goals and assisting you in finding your voice.
Hi! My name is Katherine Douglas. I understand life doesn't always go as planned and you might feel like you've lost your way. Sometimes you may experience current or unresolved trauma. Maybe you're a part of the Black or Caribbean community and have specific cultural experiences you're trying to navigate. All which can lead to, relationship troubles, anxiety issues or feelings of depression. These issues can hinder you from being your best self. Imagine waking up and feeling peace and balance within your relationship or overall life. I am passionate in helping you achieve your goals and assisting you in finding your voice.
(754) 253-8939 View (754) 253-8939
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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.