Black and African American Therapists in Chicago, IL
Latania Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605 (Online Only)
Coming to therapy as a black woman is hard, and it's even harder changing the trajectory of your family.
Have you noticed that there are many people in your family who keep secrets or struggle with expressing emotions? Have you noticed that you have similar traits or even health issues similar to older family members? This is intergenerational trauma. The way emotions are handled, health struggles and even stress can be passed down to younger generations. The Self Inside is the space for black women to heal from intergenerational trauma so they can not only change their life but the lives of future generations.
Coming to therapy as a black woman is hard, and it's even harder changing the trajectory of your family.
Have you noticed that there are many people in your family who keep secrets or struggle with expressing emotions? Have you noticed that you have similar traits or even health issues similar to older family members? This is intergenerational trauma. The way emotions are handled, health struggles and even stress can be passed down to younger generations. The Self Inside is the space for black women to heal from intergenerational trauma so they can not only change their life but the lives of future generations.
Maddy Prude
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
Pushing through the stigma of starting therapy can be hard but extremely rewarding and I understand the courage required in taking this step. I will offer a compassionate, safe and collaborative space to foster connection and healing. As a Black woman, I believe in the importance of cultural humility, anti-racism, and gender affirmation in my practice, paying attention to power structures and systems that affect us all. I understand the stressors that minorities face as they navigate the challenges of living, working, and breathing in a society that is embedded in systemic oppression.
Pushing through the stigma of starting therapy can be hard but extremely rewarding and I understand the courage required in taking this step. I will offer a compassionate, safe and collaborative space to foster connection and healing. As a Black woman, I believe in the importance of cultural humility, anti-racism, and gender affirmation in my practice, paying attention to power structures and systems that affect us all. I understand the stressors that minorities face as they navigate the challenges of living, working, and breathing in a society that is embedded in systemic oppression.
Tajmar Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60637 (Online Only)
My areas of focus are on Black/African American people, sexuality, dating/ relationships therapy (traditional/non-traditional), family therapy, anxiety, life transitions, identity, religion/spirituality, & racial/cultural concerns. I believe in fostering a client centered, collaborative, genuine, & empathic relationship with clients. The hope is that my clients reach a space of peace and be liberated to do “their work”.
My areas of focus are on Black/African American people, sexuality, dating/ relationships therapy (traditional/non-traditional), family therapy, anxiety, life transitions, identity, religion/spirituality, & racial/cultural concerns. I believe in fostering a client centered, collaborative, genuine, & empathic relationship with clients. The hope is that my clients reach a space of peace and be liberated to do “their work”.
Shakyra Winston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
Shakyra has several years of experience providing therapy and advocacy services to sexual assault survivors. Shakyra also has experience working with women, men, couples, LGBTQIA+ populations, teens, children, and families. She has experience working with Post-Partum Depression, anxiety, other mental illness, trauma, interpersonal/relational issues, and day to day stressors. Shakyra is particularly passionate about working with Black and Brown people, fat folks (with a body-positive lenses), LGBTQIA+ identities, and non-monogamous/polyamorous communities. She is kink, BDSM, ENM, and sex work friendly and affirming.
Shakyra has several years of experience providing therapy and advocacy services to sexual assault survivors. Shakyra also has experience working with women, men, couples, LGBTQIA+ populations, teens, children, and families. She has experience working with Post-Partum Depression, anxiety, other mental illness, trauma, interpersonal/relational issues, and day to day stressors. Shakyra is particularly passionate about working with Black and Brown people, fat folks (with a body-positive lenses), LGBTQIA+ identities, and non-monogamous/polyamorous communities. She is kink, BDSM, ENM, and sex work friendly and affirming.
Talia Stewart
MS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603 (Online Only)
Hailing from the vibrant city of Chicago, IL, Talia Stewart brings a decade of experience in education to her role as a Virtual Mental Health Consultant at Quantum. Holding a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Talia has dedicated her career to nurturing the mental well-being of individuals, particularly within the Black and Brown communities.
Hailing from the vibrant city of Chicago, IL, Talia Stewart brings a decade of experience in education to her role as a Virtual Mental Health Consultant at Quantum. Holding a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Talia has dedicated her career to nurturing the mental well-being of individuals, particularly within the Black and Brown communities.
Dinah Hudson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615 (Online Only)
As a queer Black person who has done their own healing work, it became my mission to establish the therapeutic space I provide as trauma-informed. As such, I strive toward building a fundamental anti-oppressive space, one where your intersectionalities are respected and your healing is centered. Bringing these intentions to the space I provide makes doing the work that healing requires that much more possible for the communities I serve.
As a queer Black person who has done their own healing work, it became my mission to establish the therapeutic space I provide as trauma-informed. As such, I strive toward building a fundamental anti-oppressive space, one where your intersectionalities are respected and your healing is centered. Bringing these intentions to the space I provide makes doing the work that healing requires that much more possible for the communities I serve.
Sara Marsha
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
I have been grounded in supporting Black, Indigenous, and people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, and other intersectional identities in navigating points of rupture, disconnected desires, and feeling stuck. I strive to create a safe, nurturing, and welcoming therapy space that brings clients closer to their healed self. As an individual and relationship therapist, creating an inclusive environment for gender-affirming, ENM, poly, sex-positive, and BDSM & kink-affirming care is part of my practice.
I have been grounded in supporting Black, Indigenous, and people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, and other intersectional identities in navigating points of rupture, disconnected desires, and feeling stuck. I strive to create a safe, nurturing, and welcoming therapy space that brings clients closer to their healed self. As an individual and relationship therapist, creating an inclusive environment for gender-affirming, ENM, poly, sex-positive, and BDSM & kink-affirming care is part of my practice.
The Urban Counselor
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MSEd
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
Hi! Welcome to The Urban Counselor LLC! This practice was birthed during the Pandemic with the intentions of supporting individuals through a globally traumatic time, and I have since expanded my trauma skill set and knowledge to support environmental and complex trauma. I identify as a Heterosexual, Cisgender, African-American female. I have a fondness for culture, and I've expanded my team with a bilingual, Spanish speaking therapist Felipa Roman. We will specialize in cultural trauma for marginalized communities, and the mental health challenges therein.
Hi! Welcome to The Urban Counselor LLC! This practice was birthed during the Pandemic with the intentions of supporting individuals through a globally traumatic time, and I have since expanded my trauma skill set and knowledge to support environmental and complex trauma. I identify as a Heterosexual, Cisgender, African-American female. I have a fondness for culture, and I've expanded my team with a bilingual, Spanish speaking therapist Felipa Roman. We will specialize in cultural trauma for marginalized communities, and the mental health challenges therein.
Khoury Daher
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Oftentimes, the most basic need that people have is to feel like they're being heard. I am experienced in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and struggle w/ depression and anxiety symptoms. I have completed extensive research regarding PTSD and depression in African American men and am comfortable working with any population and gender. Clients should come to see me because I work to understand their behavior as individuals in the context of the systems we exist within, whether they be work, school, family, or community.
Oftentimes, the most basic need that people have is to feel like they're being heard. I am experienced in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and struggle w/ depression and anxiety symptoms. I have completed extensive research regarding PTSD and depression in African American men and am comfortable working with any population and gender. Clients should come to see me because I work to understand their behavior as individuals in the context of the systems we exist within, whether they be work, school, family, or community.
Jalesia Syas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60655 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Generations today are navigating a challenging period, especially within Black and Brown communities.
Are you a parent seeking guidance as your teenager navigates puberty? An adult in need of authentic support? A veteran transitioning to civilian life? Do you crave a safe, non-judgmental space for self-exploration? Everyone deserves a village. As a Black-Woman, lesbian licensed therapist and veteran with over 5 years of dedicated clinical and non-profit experience working with youth in care, my calling is to guide individuals across life stages. However, my profound commitment and unwavering passion are devoted to serving marginalized communities through an authentic, spiritual, and holistic approach.
Generations today are navigating a challenging period, especially within Black and Brown communities.
Are you a parent seeking guidance as your teenager navigates puberty? An adult in need of authentic support? A veteran transitioning to civilian life? Do you crave a safe, non-judgmental space for self-exploration? Everyone deserves a village. As a Black-Woman, lesbian licensed therapist and veteran with over 5 years of dedicated clinical and non-profit experience working with youth in care, my calling is to guide individuals across life stages. However, my profound commitment and unwavering passion are devoted to serving marginalized communities through an authentic, spiritual, and holistic approach.
Tiffany Bernard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60637
Navigating life is challenging, and sometimes we could use a little help becoming the best versions of ourselves. Sometimes we struggle with depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, stress, racial identity, feeling stuck, and traumatic situations. But, you do not have to work through it alone; it all happens to be my area of expertise. I help adults and couples overcome those obstacles and transform their lives. My 18-year career has been devoted to supporting and empowering others, especially BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) clients.
Navigating life is challenging, and sometimes we could use a little help becoming the best versions of ourselves. Sometimes we struggle with depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, stress, racial identity, feeling stuck, and traumatic situations. But, you do not have to work through it alone; it all happens to be my area of expertise. I help adults and couples overcome those obstacles and transform their lives. My 18-year career has been devoted to supporting and empowering others, especially BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) clients.
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Novella Blackmon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
I received my BA in psychology with a minor in Black Studies and my master’s in school counseling, specializing in ages of 12-19.
Hi there! Are you struggling with a silent war of anxiety, depression, & PTSD? Are you unsure on how to build your self-esteem? Life has just been life-ing & you feel like you're at a standstill? Lets work together to find the root of it all and work past it. I have a strong love for implementing mindfulness techniques, a focus on self-love, journaling, and a focus on the mind-body connection, adding a holistic approach to my psychodynamic technique for a little razzle dazzle.
I received my BA in psychology with a minor in Black Studies and my master’s in school counseling, specializing in ages of 12-19.
Hi there! Are you struggling with a silent war of anxiety, depression, & PTSD? Are you unsure on how to build your self-esteem? Life has just been life-ing & you feel like you're at a standstill? Lets work together to find the root of it all and work past it. I have a strong love for implementing mindfulness techniques, a focus on self-love, journaling, and a focus on the mind-body connection, adding a holistic approach to my psychodynamic technique for a little razzle dazzle.
Tomika S. Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622 (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, adjustment disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, African-American trauma, Christian Therapy, grief, and ADHD.
This world can be overwhelming from managing day to day stressors to dealings with childhood trauma that is affecting your relationships today...yet you have made it this far! You and I both know it takes an especially resilient person to still stand after the trials and tribulations. If you are looking for a therapist to help identify your power, your strengths and will also assist you in achieving your goals, you may contact me for a consultation to see if my approach can help you on your journey.
I specialize in depression, adjustment disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, African-American trauma, Christian Therapy, grief, and ADHD.
This world can be overwhelming from managing day to day stressors to dealings with childhood trauma that is affecting your relationships today...yet you have made it this far! You and I both know it takes an especially resilient person to still stand after the trials and tribulations. If you are looking for a therapist to help identify your power, your strengths and will also assist you in achieving your goals, you may contact me for a consultation to see if my approach can help you on your journey.
Celina Huerta
Counselor, LCPC, CCTP, CSTIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
I have enjoyed my experience working with Brown and Black folks the most as it brings me joy to give back to my community.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Trauma Professional, and Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional, with 10 years of experience, I have worked with youth & adults to help them overcome obstacles sustained through life’s challenges, including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, identity concerns, behavior issues, relationship problems, and family conflicts. Whether a first therapeutic experience or continued services for you, I focus on building healthy and trusting therapeutic relationships and provide an empowering experience in therapy for individuals of different ethnicities, age and sex.
I have enjoyed my experience working with Brown and Black folks the most as it brings me joy to give back to my community.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Certified Trauma Professional, and Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional, with 10 years of experience, I have worked with youth & adults to help them overcome obstacles sustained through life’s challenges, including trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, identity concerns, behavior issues, relationship problems, and family conflicts. Whether a first therapeutic experience or continued services for you, I focus on building healthy and trusting therapeutic relationships and provide an empowering experience in therapy for individuals of different ethnicities, age and sex.
Bria Robinson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618 (Online Only)
The bravest thing you can do is begin to understand your own story. As a black woman, a sister, a daughter and a mother; I too have been in your shoes. Throughout life we are told we have to remain strong and we never get the opportunity to not be the strong one for once. This causes built up anxiety, depression and negative emotions which are then taken out on the ones we love the most. Are you ready to face the past trauma and experiences you have not had the opportunity to process? If so, I am the right therapist for you.
The bravest thing you can do is begin to understand your own story. As a black woman, a sister, a daughter and a mother; I too have been in your shoes. Throughout life we are told we have to remain strong and we never get the opportunity to not be the strong one for once. This causes built up anxiety, depression and negative emotions which are then taken out on the ones we love the most. Are you ready to face the past trauma and experiences you have not had the opportunity to process? If so, I am the right therapist for you.
Kamaria Excell
Licensed Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
We do this by utilizing numerous approaches that blend the power of the arts, storytelling, embodied knowledge discourse, Black Feminism, radical world making, CBT, and so much more.
Growing up, my kitchen counter was an innovative space for the love, joy, pain, community, reimagining, grief, & messiness that life can be. This is what my therapeutic space feels like: a sit at the kitchen counter where you can find release, ease, and home. I see myself as a container by which folks can meet the most aligned version of themselves and cultivate a life that is truly their own. It would be such an honor to hold space for you on your journey back home to yourself. I am dedicated to holding space for all BIPOC folks, but especially women, femmes, and nonbinary folks through their healing journeys
We do this by utilizing numerous approaches that blend the power of the arts, storytelling, embodied knowledge discourse, Black Feminism, radical world making, CBT, and so much more.
Growing up, my kitchen counter was an innovative space for the love, joy, pain, community, reimagining, grief, & messiness that life can be. This is what my therapeutic space feels like: a sit at the kitchen counter where you can find release, ease, and home. I see myself as a container by which folks can meet the most aligned version of themselves and cultivate a life that is truly their own. It would be such an honor to hold space for you on your journey back home to yourself. I am dedicated to holding space for all BIPOC folks, but especially women, femmes, and nonbinary folks through their healing journeys
Andrae Laws
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
My therapeutic approach is shaped by three beliefs: (1) regardless of your past and current situation, you are worthy of love and respect, (2) you have inherent strengths, and (3) systemic oppression plays a role in way we think, feel, and behave; therefore, in therapy, it is important to consider the relationship among systemic oppression, mental health and the multiple identities we hold. As a Black and queer person, I believe showing up as your authentic self is brave and healthy. Together, we will create a safe and non-judgmental space as we work through your goals.
My therapeutic approach is shaped by three beliefs: (1) regardless of your past and current situation, you are worthy of love and respect, (2) you have inherent strengths, and (3) systemic oppression plays a role in way we think, feel, and behave; therefore, in therapy, it is important to consider the relationship among systemic oppression, mental health and the multiple identities we hold. As a Black and queer person, I believe showing up as your authentic self is brave and healthy. Together, we will create a safe and non-judgmental space as we work through your goals.
Kojo Ngoro Psychotherapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Black, male-identified therapist with a trauma-informed lens.
I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. You are not broken or in need of repair. The fact that you have arrived in this space, in the midst of a year-long pandemic, social injustice and unrest, and day-to-day living, is a testament to your resilience. Whether you would like to become more proactive with your mental health or learn coping skills and techniques for managing stress and anxiety, we can work together to accomplish your goals.
I am a Black, male-identified therapist with a trauma-informed lens.
I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. You are not broken or in need of repair. The fact that you have arrived in this space, in the midst of a year-long pandemic, social injustice and unrest, and day-to-day living, is a testament to your resilience. Whether you would like to become more proactive with your mental health or learn coping skills and techniques for managing stress and anxiety, we can work together to accomplish your goals.
Alexis M. Westbrook
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608 (Online Only)
Alexis Westbrook is an African American clinical psychologist who specializes in a trauma-focused approach to treat relational issues. She has over 12 years of experience in helping adults across the lifespan develop healthy coping skills and healing strategies to manage life's difficulties. Her practice is rooted in a collaborative and strength-based approach, focusing on the well-being of her patients.
Alexis Westbrook is an African American clinical psychologist who specializes in a trauma-focused approach to treat relational issues. She has over 12 years of experience in helping adults across the lifespan develop healthy coping skills and healing strategies to manage life's difficulties. Her practice is rooted in a collaborative and strength-based approach, focusing on the well-being of her patients.
Ujima Living
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614 (Online Only)
Recognizing the significance of social justice, we are sensitive to the specific barriers faced by African American/Black individuals and people of color.
Our ideal client is someone who is motivated to delve into self-discovery and personal growth, seeking assistance for positive change. They may be facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. What they're looking for is a safe, non-judgmental environment to openly express their thoughts and emotions. We work with clients who are eager to collaborate on setting meaningful and attainable goals. Whether it's improving coping skills, fostering resilience, or enhancing interpersonal relationships, they're committed to the therapeutic journey towards a more fulfilling life.
Recognizing the significance of social justice, we are sensitive to the specific barriers faced by African American/Black individuals and people of color.
Our ideal client is someone who is motivated to delve into self-discovery and personal growth, seeking assistance for positive change. They may be facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. What they're looking for is a safe, non-judgmental environment to openly express their thoughts and emotions. We work with clients who are eager to collaborate on setting meaningful and attainable goals. Whether it's improving coping skills, fostering resilience, or enhancing interpersonal relationships, they're committed to the therapeutic journey towards a more fulfilling life.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Cicero
- Evergreen Park
- Forest Park
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Lincolnwood
- Maywood
- Oak Lawn
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Westchester
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.