Black and African American Therapists in Park Ridge, IL

Photo of Shawntrell Moore, Counselor in Park Ridge, IL
Shawntrell Moore
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068  (Online Only)
Make substantial change expeditiously! My aim is to help clients (adults, teens) find comfort with emotional vulnerability and healing through introspection of thoughts, behaviors, and values which prompts new action. My ideal client is one who is interested in processing emotions, gaining insight, and using existing/untapped internal and external resources. I am a thoughtful, compassionate, collaborative, and patient professional with 15 years of experience. Can definitely assist with trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues/divorce, shame, identity issues, and simply improving one's well-being.
Make substantial change expeditiously! My aim is to help clients (adults, teens) find comfort with emotional vulnerability and healing through introspection of thoughts, behaviors, and values which prompts new action. My ideal client is one who is interested in processing emotions, gaining insight, and using existing/untapped internal and external resources. I am a thoughtful, compassionate, collaborative, and patient professional with 15 years of experience. Can definitely assist with trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues/divorce, shame, identity issues, and simply improving one's well-being.
(847) 780-9311 View (847) 780-9311
Photo of Sherilynn Asuoha, Counselor in Park Ridge, IL
Sherilynn Asuoha
Counselor, EdD, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068
I provide a safe space for individuals, couples, & families to determine their “why”, their mission and actionable steps to identify and overcome barriers and accomplishing their established mission. I offer psycho-education, talk therapy, narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavior therapies, and dialectical behavior therapies.
I provide a safe space for individuals, couples, & families to determine their “why”, their mission and actionable steps to identify and overcome barriers and accomplishing their established mission. I offer psycho-education, talk therapy, narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavior therapies, and dialectical behavior therapies.
(224) 970-2757 View (224) 970-2757
Photo of Dr. Lisa Page, Counselor in Park Ridge, IL
Dr. Lisa Page
Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068  (Online Only)
I am a Health Psychologist who approaches clients with empathy. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with an influence of Adlerian theory, to be goal-oriented and positive-focused in treating depression, anxiety, physical illnesses, sleep problems, weight management, recovery from substance use and other lifestyle conditions. I help people overcome their fears and resistance to change through the use of Motivational Interviewing (MI). This helps remove barriers to achieving goals and achieving them successfully. My purpose in my work is to help each client become the best version of their 'self'.
I am a Health Psychologist who approaches clients with empathy. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with an influence of Adlerian theory, to be goal-oriented and positive-focused in treating depression, anxiety, physical illnesses, sleep problems, weight management, recovery from substance use and other lifestyle conditions. I help people overcome their fears and resistance to change through the use of Motivational Interviewing (MI). This helps remove barriers to achieving goals and achieving them successfully. My purpose in my work is to help each client become the best version of their 'self'.
(773) 900-6173 View (773) 900-6173
Photo of David E. Briggs, Counselor in Park Ridge, IL
David E. Briggs
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068
All of us experience the feeling of being stuck in some way, perhaps frustrated by challenging life circumstances, discouraged by unfulfilling relationships or just generally stirred up by the vague sense that something is just not working. Through the course of my experience, I have come to believe deeply in the power of the therapeutic relationship and the way in which a collaboration with a thoughtful, compassionate and dedicated therapist can be the catalyst for real change.
All of us experience the feeling of being stuck in some way, perhaps frustrated by challenging life circumstances, discouraged by unfulfilling relationships or just generally stirred up by the vague sense that something is just not working. Through the course of my experience, I have come to believe deeply in the power of the therapeutic relationship and the way in which a collaboration with a thoughtful, compassionate and dedicated therapist can be the catalyst for real change.
(847) 379-5124 View (847) 379-5124
Photo of Melissa Marie Waterfield-Copeland, Counselor in Park Ridge, IL
Melissa Marie Waterfield-Copeland
Counselor, MA, MBA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Park Ridge, IL 60068
Life is messy. Relationships are messy. Parenting . . . really messy. Whatever it is that's going on, perhaps your situation is leaving you anxious, depressed, discouraged, and maybe even a little hopeless at times. I Imagine you're here because you don't want to feel this way anymore. You're ready for something - anything, really - to change. Maybe someone encouraged you to reach out because they're worried about you. Maybe you're worried too. The good news is it doesn't have to be this way. It's your life to live. Let's work together to find out who YOU are and what matters most to you.
Life is messy. Relationships are messy. Parenting . . . really messy. Whatever it is that's going on, perhaps your situation is leaving you anxious, depressed, discouraged, and maybe even a little hopeless at times. I Imagine you're here because you don't want to feel this way anymore. You're ready for something - anything, really - to change. Maybe someone encouraged you to reach out because they're worried about you. Maybe you're worried too. The good news is it doesn't have to be this way. It's your life to live. Let's work together to find out who YOU are and what matters most to you.
(847) 416-1119 View (847) 416-1119
Photo of Pamela Anne Brand, Marriage & Family Therapist in Park Ridge, IL
Pamela Anne Brand
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Park Ridge, IL 60068
My practice involves helping individuals, couples and families identify,and build strengths and resilience, while identifying and shifting issues that constrain the fullest potential of stability, satisfaction and joy. I am collaborative and relational in style. I have experience working with issues including, anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, eating disorder and addictions. My approach involves the provision of support, understanding and encouragement to enhance awareness and success for the creation of meaning and satisfaction. My style is interactive and I offer strategies and feedback to enhance client's achievement of goals.
My practice involves helping individuals, couples and families identify,and build strengths and resilience, while identifying and shifting issues that constrain the fullest potential of stability, satisfaction and joy. I am collaborative and relational in style. I have experience working with issues including, anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, eating disorder and addictions. My approach involves the provision of support, understanding and encouragement to enhance awareness and success for the creation of meaning and satisfaction. My style is interactive and I offer strategies and feedback to enhance client's achievement of goals.
(773) 432-8221 View (773) 432-8221
Photo of Yvette Yonan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Park Ridge, IL
Yvette Yonan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068
My name is Yvette and I serve as the Clinical Director and Psychotherapist at InTouch Mind Health. I offer a safe and personal space that is judgement free, where you can unpack the past, process fears and concerns, and face present challenges. My approach is interactive, supportive, and personal. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), as well as Solutions Focused and Narrative Therapy interventions in the clinical setting with adults, Narrative and Play Therapy when working with children, and Christian Counseling when working with individuals who prefer therapy that is grounded in Christian principles and bible based.
My name is Yvette and I serve as the Clinical Director and Psychotherapist at InTouch Mind Health. I offer a safe and personal space that is judgement free, where you can unpack the past, process fears and concerns, and face present challenges. My approach is interactive, supportive, and personal. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), as well as Solutions Focused and Narrative Therapy interventions in the clinical setting with adults, Narrative and Play Therapy when working with children, and Christian Counseling when working with individuals who prefer therapy that is grounded in Christian principles and bible based.
(312) 544-0551 View (312) 544-0551
Photo of Daisy Franco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Park Ridge, IL
Daisy Franco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Park Ridge, IL 60068  (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Daisy Franco, and I am a seasoned bilingual LCSW based in Illinois with over a decade of experience. I provide individual therapy for BIPOC adolescents, young adults, and grown adults with emotional support in life transitions, women's issues, dealing with work-life balance, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, body image, and c-PTSD. I also have a strong foundation background in working with adult clients with chronic and severe mental illness and dual-integrated co-occurring disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar I, and II.
Hi there! My name is Daisy Franco, and I am a seasoned bilingual LCSW based in Illinois with over a decade of experience. I provide individual therapy for BIPOC adolescents, young adults, and grown adults with emotional support in life transitions, women's issues, dealing with work-life balance, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, body image, and c-PTSD. I also have a strong foundation background in working with adult clients with chronic and severe mental illness and dual-integrated co-occurring disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar I, and II.
(708) 729-5023 View (708) 729-5023
Photo of North Shore Family Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Park Ridge, IL
North Shore Family Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Park Ridge, IL 60068
When you or your child/teen is struggling, you want strategies to combat challenges NOW. At North Shore Family Services, we empower kids, teens, and adults to learn tools, so they can succeed independently. Our goal is for children, teens, adults, parents, and couples to learn skills to be successful with school, peers, work, and family- long after therapy ends. We assist with IEP and 504 plans to help our children/teen clients succeed where they spend most of their day- out of their parents' sight. Parents are our partners in helping kids and teens learn life skills.
When you or your child/teen is struggling, you want strategies to combat challenges NOW. At North Shore Family Services, we empower kids, teens, and adults to learn tools, so they can succeed independently. Our goal is for children, teens, adults, parents, and couples to learn skills to be successful with school, peers, work, and family- long after therapy ends. We assist with IEP and 504 plans to help our children/teen clients succeed where they spend most of their day- out of their parents' sight. Parents are our partners in helping kids and teens learn life skills.
(224) 803-2468 View (224) 803-2468

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cotorey Seals, Licensed Professional Counselor in Park Ridge, IL
Cotorey Seals
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
Are there parts of your story you wish you could forget? Do you feel like no matter how much you try, you’re never enough? Does your anxiety, shame, and trauma feel crippling? This is a painful place to be, but you don’t have to do this alone. I provide an exploratory space where you can unpack and heal from some of the most difficult parts of your story. As a black, male therapist, I understand how your background and unique context impacts your life. As we explore your story, I’ll help you move from trauma to healing, shame to self-compassion, and anxiety to freedom.
Are there parts of your story you wish you could forget? Do you feel like no matter how much you try, you’re never enough? Does your anxiety, shame, and trauma feel crippling? This is a painful place to be, but you don’t have to do this alone. I provide an exploratory space where you can unpack and heal from some of the most difficult parts of your story. As a black, male therapist, I understand how your background and unique context impacts your life. As we explore your story, I’ll help you move from trauma to healing, shame to self-compassion, and anxiety to freedom.
(312) 756-0305 View (312) 756-0305
Photo of Dr. Kres Snyder, Counselor in Park Ridge, IL
Dr. Kres Snyder
Counselor, LCPC, CST, Pact I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I utilize techniques that help clients understand themselves, their feelings, and their relationship in a way that improves their lives from a grounded black female perspective.
Finding balance is often hard. I specialize in individual and couples therapy with a focus on marital and couples, sex therapy, and alternative lifestyle issues, such as non-monogamy. I have over 16 years of experience with LGBTQIA+ concerns, ethical non monogamy, and marital and couples work with communication and conflict issues. I bring a warm, honest, and open approach to therapy while helping you feel and find hope. I truly work to meet you where you are and create a space where you are not only safe but with a friend. This step is hard and I have been in your shoes so I will never judge.
I utilize techniques that help clients understand themselves, their feelings, and their relationship in a way that improves their lives from a grounded black female perspective.
Finding balance is often hard. I specialize in individual and couples therapy with a focus on marital and couples, sex therapy, and alternative lifestyle issues, such as non-monogamy. I have over 16 years of experience with LGBTQIA+ concerns, ethical non monogamy, and marital and couples work with communication and conflict issues. I bring a warm, honest, and open approach to therapy while helping you feel and find hope. I truly work to meet you where you are and create a space where you are not only safe but with a friend. This step is hard and I have been in your shoes so I will never judge.
(773) 492-6453 View (773) 492-6453
Photo of Latania Franklin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Park Ridge, IL
Latania Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (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.
(773) 362-2988 View (773) 362-2988
Photo of David Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Park Ridge, IL
David Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest Park, IL 60130  (Online Only)
Looking for a warm, safe and accepting space to process your life experiences and develop a plan to achieve your desired outcomes? My name is David Walker and I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). When engaging in the therapy relationship, my work has been grounded in supporting Black, Indigenous, and people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, and other intersecting identities. I have worked in addressing concerns related to: discrimination from the criminal justice system, racial and societal injustices, anger, substance use, trauma, self-image and self-esteem, changes in life, relationship concerns, & healing.
Looking for a warm, safe and accepting space to process your life experiences and develop a plan to achieve your desired outcomes? My name is David Walker and I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). When engaging in the therapy relationship, my work has been grounded in supporting Black, Indigenous, and people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, and other intersecting identities. I have worked in addressing concerns related to: discrimination from the criminal justice system, racial and societal injustices, anger, substance use, trauma, self-image and self-esteem, changes in life, relationship concerns, & healing.
(708) 315-6731 View (708) 315-6731
Photo of Nick Alder, Pre-Licensed Professional in Park Ridge, IL
Nick Alder
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, EdM, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60644  (Online Only)
as a Black queer, non-binary femme psychologist, i intertwine relational, healing justice, and anti-oppression practices.
imagine you're a creative at a crossroads, desiring to express yourself fully but feeling hindered. perhaps societal norms, self-doubt, or the complexities of your identity in marginalized communities make it challenging to fully embrace your creative potential. you're seeking a therapeutic journey that not only understands but values your unique story. here, you'll find support to navigate these challenges, embracing your full self and your artistic expression. it's a path towards living authentically, where every facet of your identity and creative spirit is not just accepted but celebrated.
as a Black queer, non-binary femme psychologist, i intertwine relational, healing justice, and anti-oppression practices.
imagine you're a creative at a crossroads, desiring to express yourself fully but feeling hindered. perhaps societal norms, self-doubt, or the complexities of your identity in marginalized communities make it challenging to fully embrace your creative potential. you're seeking a therapeutic journey that not only understands but values your unique story. here, you'll find support to navigate these challenges, embracing your full self and your artistic expression. it's a path towards living authentically, where every facet of your identity and creative spirit is not just accepted but celebrated.
(312) 313-5672 View (312) 313-5672
Photo of Lyrra Isanberg, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Park Ridge, IL
Lyrra Isanberg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
My specialties include couples therapy, sex therapy, and therapy with individuals and couples who identify as Black and/or multiracial.
I believe that problems are best understood in the context of relationships - with loved ones, with intimate partners, and with oneself. Perhaps you are noticing room for improvement in one or in multiple relationships, or perhaps you have a strong desire for increased understanding of yourself and others. It takes a great deal of insight and strength to even begin this journey towards greater harmony. My hope as a clinician is to help foster within you a sense of renewed curiosity, compassion, and hope as you undertake this journey.
My specialties include couples therapy, sex therapy, and therapy with individuals and couples who identify as Black and/or multiracial.
I believe that problems are best understood in the context of relationships - with loved ones, with intimate partners, and with oneself. Perhaps you are noticing room for improvement in one or in multiple relationships, or perhaps you have a strong desire for increased understanding of yourself and others. It takes a great deal of insight and strength to even begin this journey towards greater harmony. My hope as a clinician is to help foster within you a sense of renewed curiosity, compassion, and hope as you undertake this journey.
(847) 558-1969 View (847) 558-1969
Photo of Celina Huerta, Counselor in Park Ridge, IL
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.
(872) 246-9224 View (872) 246-9224
Photo of Lafay Erving, Licensed Professional Counselor in Park Ridge, IL
Lafay Erving
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
My primary focus is empowering individuals to make the changes they want to see in their lives by leveraging their strengths and resilience. Therapy is meant to be a collaboration between therapist and client which means both parties have an active role in identifying what is not working and making changes. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), specifically clients age 18+. I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing life and career transitions as well as mild to moderate mental health concerns.
My primary focus is empowering individuals to make the changes they want to see in their lives by leveraging their strengths and resilience. Therapy is meant to be a collaboration between therapist and client which means both parties have an active role in identifying what is not working and making changes. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), specifically clients age 18+. I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing life and career transitions as well as mild to moderate mental health concerns.
(708) 809-8412 View (708) 809-8412
Photo of Brenda Reavis LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Park Ridge, IL
Brenda Reavis LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202  (Online Only)
I welcome individuals from all walks of life to engage in therapy with me, and I have a specialized focus on the unique issues of LGBTQ+ folx, college students, Black women and individuals of color.
One of the pillars of a fulfilling life is the ability to be our authentic selves. Sometimes obstacles, hardships, and missteps cause us to forgo authenticity to survive. As a result, we may feel stuck, lost, or alone in our struggles. As a therapist, I see myself as a partner to my clients in their journey toward healing and growth. My approach is holistic - I consider the whole person and their context in everything I do, and I work collaboratively to ensure that each session feels personalized and effective. I provide a safe space to process where you are and begin to make progress toward where you'd like to be.
I welcome individuals from all walks of life to engage in therapy with me, and I have a specialized focus on the unique issues of LGBTQ+ folx, college students, Black women and individuals of color.
One of the pillars of a fulfilling life is the ability to be our authentic selves. Sometimes obstacles, hardships, and missteps cause us to forgo authenticity to survive. As a result, we may feel stuck, lost, or alone in our struggles. As a therapist, I see myself as a partner to my clients in their journey toward healing and growth. My approach is holistic - I consider the whole person and their context in everything I do, and I work collaboratively to ensure that each session feels personalized and effective. I provide a safe space to process where you are and begin to make progress toward where you'd like to be.
(224) 204-0435 View (224) 204-0435
Photo of Shelby Warren, Pre-Licensed Professional in Park Ridge, IL
Shelby Warren
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Greetings! I'm Shelby Warren, a compassionate therapist with a deep commitment to fostering personal growth and wellbeing. As an African American woman, I bring a unique perspective and understanding of the cultural nuances that shape our experiences. My journey in counseling is rooted in a desire to uplift and support individuals facing life's challenges. I provide a safe, affirming space where clients from all walks of life can feel seen, heard, and understood.
Greetings! I'm Shelby Warren, a compassionate therapist with a deep commitment to fostering personal growth and wellbeing. As an African American woman, I bring a unique perspective and understanding of the cultural nuances that shape our experiences. My journey in counseling is rooted in a desire to uplift and support individuals facing life's challenges. I provide a safe, affirming space where clients from all walks of life can feel seen, heard, and understood.
(708) 578-8090 View (708) 578-8090
Photo of Shakyra Winston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Park Ridge, IL
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.
(708) 866-0121 View (708) 866-0121
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.