Black and African American Therapists in Hico, TX

Photo of Debra Swindle Lucas, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debra Swindle Lucas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Hico, TX 76457
I am a trained Trauma Focused CBT therapist as well as a certified EMDR therapist. I work with those experiencing anxiety, depression, negative habits, adjustment to new environments and situations, grief, and issues of abuse and anger management. My focus is on children from 2-18, young adults and adults through the age of 99.
I am a trained Trauma Focused CBT therapist as well as a certified EMDR therapist. I work with those experiencing anxiety, depression, negative habits, adjustment to new environments and situations, grief, and issues of abuse and anger management. My focus is on children from 2-18, young adults and adults through the age of 99.
(254) 323-0197 View (254) 323-0197

Online Therapists

Photo of Elisha Cadena-Bowles, MS, LPC, NCC
Elisha Cadena-Bowles
MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75235
As a queer Black, Indigenous therapist, I specialize in queer-affirmative therapy, sex therapy, racial & sexual identity formation, minority stress, and intergenerational trauma. I collaborate with clients through a social justice-oriented, culturally responsive, and systems-informed framework while rooted in a decolonial-based approach. This typically looks like working with individual adults who may be QTBIPOC, neurodiverse, navigating systemic inequities & oppression, struggling with life transitions, or someone experiencing the heaviness and despair of human suffering that may manifest as grief, loss, depression, and/or anxiety.
As a queer Black, Indigenous therapist, I specialize in queer-affirmative therapy, sex therapy, racial & sexual identity formation, minority stress, and intergenerational trauma. I collaborate with clients through a social justice-oriented, culturally responsive, and systems-informed framework while rooted in a decolonial-based approach. This typically looks like working with individual adults who may be QTBIPOC, neurodiverse, navigating systemic inequities & oppression, struggling with life transitions, or someone experiencing the heaviness and despair of human suffering that may manifest as grief, loss, depression, and/or anxiety.
(972) 472-2739 View (972) 472-2739
Photo of Traci Parramore-Chambers, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Traci Parramore-Chambers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Willow Park, TX 76008
I have presented for the North County African American Women’s Association presenting on the topic of Teen Mental Health and Trauma, and Depression.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who completed my undergraduate in Theater from USIU, my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Bethel Seminary/University-San Diego, CA, and am currently pursuing my doctorate in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. I have worked with adolescents, adults, couples, and families for over 15 years with a focus on Depression, and Anxiety. My work is also inclusive of providing marriage counseling, facilitating groups for women, working with transitional age youth, and individuals struggling with serious mental health illnesses and relationship challenges.
I have presented for the North County African American Women’s Association presenting on the topic of Teen Mental Health and Trauma, and Depression.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who completed my undergraduate in Theater from USIU, my Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Bethel Seminary/University-San Diego, CA, and am currently pursuing my doctorate in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. I have worked with adolescents, adults, couples, and families for over 15 years with a focus on Depression, and Anxiety. My work is also inclusive of providing marriage counseling, facilitating groups for women, working with transitional age youth, and individuals struggling with serious mental health illnesses and relationship challenges.
(972) 779-6407 View (972) 779-6407
Photo of O. Uwuma Felix, PsyD, Psychologist
O. Uwuma Felix
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75211  (Online Only)
I often help women, young adults, and teens that hold Black, immigrant, queer, neurodivergent, or religious identities.
We all go through seasons where we feel bogged down, overwhelmed, and tired. This can leave us feeling misunderstood, unseen, or unheard. Prolonged struggles can affect our sense of self and impact relationships with our family and friends, making it difficult to get unstuck and move forward. In my practice, I partner with you as you navigate the difficulties that life has thrown your way. My training and lived experience helps me to remain informed as we consider your many different parts and the perspectives that come with them. My hope is to create a space where you feel safe to be your whole, authentic self as you heal.
I often help women, young adults, and teens that hold Black, immigrant, queer, neurodivergent, or religious identities.
We all go through seasons where we feel bogged down, overwhelmed, and tired. This can leave us feeling misunderstood, unseen, or unheard. Prolonged struggles can affect our sense of self and impact relationships with our family and friends, making it difficult to get unstuck and move forward. In my practice, I partner with you as you navigate the difficulties that life has thrown your way. My training and lived experience helps me to remain informed as we consider your many different parts and the perspectives that come with them. My hope is to create a space where you feel safe to be your whole, authentic self as you heal.
(469) 425-8956 View (469) 425-8956
Photo of Shadai Lanie Brinchfield, MA, LPC-A, LPC Intern
Shadai Lanie Brinchfield
LPC Intern, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76002  (Online Only)
My focus is geared towards individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem, body positivity, life coaching, and high functioning black women.
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate who has a passion to make a difference in the mental health field. I earned my B.S. in Integrative Studies at the University of North Texas, and Master’s in Professional Counseling from Texas Wesleyan. I also received my certification for professional life coaching from the University of Texas at Arlington.
My focus is geared towards individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem, body positivity, life coaching, and high functioning black women.
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate who has a passion to make a difference in the mental health field. I earned my B.S. in Integrative Studies at the University of North Texas, and Master’s in Professional Counseling from Texas Wesleyan. I also received my certification for professional life coaching from the University of Texas at Arlington.
(682) 777-0732 View (682) 777-0732
Photo of Nicole Anderson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75218
Nicole is a self-proclaimed “hope dealer” with a passion for all things Black and mental health.
In the words of Lauryn Hill, “How you gon’ win when you ain’t right within?!” Here's to no longer having to wonder! When you choose yourself, you show the world what you truly deserve. Choosing ourselves is not always met with ease, acceptance, or understanding; however, it does not come without reward! Welcome to the other side of life, where healing resides. Nicole says choose yourself.
Nicole is a self-proclaimed “hope dealer” with a passion for all things Black and mental health.
In the words of Lauryn Hill, “How you gon’ win when you ain’t right within?!” Here's to no longer having to wonder! When you choose yourself, you show the world what you truly deserve. Choosing ourselves is not always met with ease, acceptance, or understanding; however, it does not come without reward! Welcome to the other side of life, where healing resides. Nicole says choose yourself.
(214) 393-6128 View (214) 393-6128
Photo of Ashley Richardson Minnitt, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Richardson Minnitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78665  (Online Only)
If you feel like “others don’t get me”, feel you have difficulty connecting with others, or just feel you are unable to handle the many stressors of life, I may be able to help. Clients often reach out when they feel what they have been doing is not working. All of our brains are wired differently & sometimes that requires us to use different approaches to address the challenges in our lives. My goal is to help individuals learn concrete tools & empower them to gain confidence in using their strengths to overcome challenges and reach their goals. My name is Ashley; I identify as a cis-gendered, African American & Neurotypical.
If you feel like “others don’t get me”, feel you have difficulty connecting with others, or just feel you are unable to handle the many stressors of life, I may be able to help. Clients often reach out when they feel what they have been doing is not working. All of our brains are wired differently & sometimes that requires us to use different approaches to address the challenges in our lives. My goal is to help individuals learn concrete tools & empower them to gain confidence in using their strengths to overcome challenges and reach their goals. My name is Ashley; I identify as a cis-gendered, African American & Neurotypical.
(512) 240-2094 View (512) 240-2094
Photo of Ashley Gilmer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Gilmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Grand Prairie, TX 75052  (Online Only)
As a young African American female therapist, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy for young individuals facing various mental health challenges. With a focus on individual's personal growth, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and achieve personal growth. I work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and identities, ensuring an inclusive and affirming therapeutic experience.
As a young African American female therapist, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy for young individuals facing various mental health challenges. With a focus on individual's personal growth, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and achieve personal growth. I work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and identities, ensuring an inclusive and affirming therapeutic experience.
(817) 813-6508 View (817) 813-6508
Photo of Raheem Lay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raheem Lay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75225  (Online Only)
As an African American male therapist, I offer a culturally sensitive and inclusive space rooted in emotional intelligence and empathy. I believe in the power of self-awareness to navigate challenges. In sessions, I prioritize collaboration and affirmation, tailoring my approach to your unique needs. Drawing from a holistic perspective, I integrate evidence-based methods, considering cultural factors.
As an African American male therapist, I offer a culturally sensitive and inclusive space rooted in emotional intelligence and empathy. I believe in the power of self-awareness to navigate challenges. In sessions, I prioritize collaboration and affirmation, tailoring my approach to your unique needs. Drawing from a holistic perspective, I integrate evidence-based methods, considering cultural factors.
(512) 559-3705 View (512) 559-3705
Photo of Melodie Malone, MEd, LPC-A
Melodie Malone
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76123  (Online Only)
As a black woman with a disability, the importance of intersectionality and its effects on our lives are near ​to my heart.
My personal counseling philosophy begins with and ends with ​congruency, acceptance, and unconditional positive regard. Regardless of ​their past, I believe that every individual deserves a safe space and ​opportunity to express and explore themselves unapologetically. I ​entered the counseling field because of the first-hand traumas I've ​experienced in my own life. I fully understand the effects of negative ​self-talk and distorted thinking that can impact an individual's life, and my ​hope is to be a helping hand to others through their journey.
As a black woman with a disability, the importance of intersectionality and its effects on our lives are near ​to my heart.
My personal counseling philosophy begins with and ends with ​congruency, acceptance, and unconditional positive regard. Regardless of ​their past, I believe that every individual deserves a safe space and ​opportunity to express and explore themselves unapologetically. I ​entered the counseling field because of the first-hand traumas I've ​experienced in my own life. I fully understand the effects of negative ​self-talk and distorted thinking that can impact an individual's life, and my ​hope is to be a helping hand to others through their journey.
(817) 783-0272 View (817) 783-0272
Photo of Summer Williams, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Summer Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76006  (Online Only)
Through the combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and a Strengths Based Approach, I serve African American and minority youth & young adults ages 16-30.
Hi There! I know that the process of finding the right therapist can seem exhausting, and sometimes confusing- but I am here to help and ease some of that confusion as you step into the world of therapy. If you think about two needs that connect us all to each other- is that we want to know that we are heard, and that we matter. Regardless of our background or characteristics, the desire to feel heard and understood is universal. My goal as a therapist is to help meet these needs for you through our work together. I aim to meet you where you are at in your healing journey, and see you for who you are and your unique needs.
Through the combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and a Strengths Based Approach, I serve African American and minority youth & young adults ages 16-30.
Hi There! I know that the process of finding the right therapist can seem exhausting, and sometimes confusing- but I am here to help and ease some of that confusion as you step into the world of therapy. If you think about two needs that connect us all to each other- is that we want to know that we are heard, and that we matter. Regardless of our background or characteristics, the desire to feel heard and understood is universal. My goal as a therapist is to help meet these needs for you through our work together. I aim to meet you where you are at in your healing journey, and see you for who you are and your unique needs.
(346) 534-7038 View (346) 534-7038
Photo of Dr. Charles R. Senteio, PhD, LCSW, MSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Charles R. Senteio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MSW, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76120  (Online Only)
As an African-American cisgender male, I aspire to use my position in the field of therapy to enhance the sense of ease and acceptance for minorities and men seeking clinical assistance.
Seeking help is a courageous act, and I admire my clients for taking the first step. I believe that each client is unique and that there is not a one-size-fits-all treatment plan. I aim to provide a non-judgmental environment for you to talk about your concerns and issues comfortably. It is crucial to approach such discussions with an unwavering sense of respect and unconditional positive regard for each person's unique journey. Through constructive conversation, we will work together to unravel the underlying emotions and thoughts that drive behaviors and to collaboratively tackle the areas of your life that you wish to transform.
As an African-American cisgender male, I aspire to use my position in the field of therapy to enhance the sense of ease and acceptance for minorities and men seeking clinical assistance.
Seeking help is a courageous act, and I admire my clients for taking the first step. I believe that each client is unique and that there is not a one-size-fits-all treatment plan. I aim to provide a non-judgmental environment for you to talk about your concerns and issues comfortably. It is crucial to approach such discussions with an unwavering sense of respect and unconditional positive regard for each person's unique journey. Through constructive conversation, we will work together to unravel the underlying emotions and thoughts that drive behaviors and to collaboratively tackle the areas of your life that you wish to transform.
(732) 246-0197 View (732) 246-0197
Photo of Megan R. Pickens, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan R. Pickens
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76001
Mēgan specializes in helping High Achieving Black Women (HABW™) set boundaries in their relationships and ask for what they need.
I offer no magic solutions; you will only get out of therapy what you are willing to put in it. Relationships take work, and you must have a willingness to look at yourself honestly in the process of creating a solution. I will help guide you in learning ways to communicate again and find common languages in your relationships. I use my skills to help you understand yourself, fill gaps in relationships, fill gaps that feel like they will never heal, and help heal wounds. I pride myself on telling my clients the truth and motivating them to choose boundaries that better their lives. I don't take sides and tell you like it is.
Mēgan specializes in helping High Achieving Black Women (HABW™) set boundaries in their relationships and ask for what they need.
I offer no magic solutions; you will only get out of therapy what you are willing to put in it. Relationships take work, and you must have a willingness to look at yourself honestly in the process of creating a solution. I will help guide you in learning ways to communicate again and find common languages in your relationships. I use my skills to help you understand yourself, fill gaps in relationships, fill gaps that feel like they will never heal, and help heal wounds. I pride myself on telling my clients the truth and motivating them to choose boundaries that better their lives. I don't take sides and tell you like it is.
(817) 617-2638 View (817) 617-2638
Photo of Devyn Walker, MS, LPC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Devyn Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208
Do you ever feel like your emotions are so intense that you either blow up or shut down completely? This might make you feel like you’re ‘doing too much,’ even when you seem to have it all together on the outside. If this sounds familiar, it might be time to learn how to manage your emotions instead of letting them manage you—and I can help! I specialize in working with Black women and women of color aged 25-40, helping them navigate life’s challenges. I support women who struggle with managing relationships, emotional dysregulation, intellectualizing their feelings, trusting themselves, & depression, anxiety, ADHD, & trauma.
Do you ever feel like your emotions are so intense that you either blow up or shut down completely? This might make you feel like you’re ‘doing too much,’ even when you seem to have it all together on the outside. If this sounds familiar, it might be time to learn how to manage your emotions instead of letting them manage you—and I can help! I specialize in working with Black women and women of color aged 25-40, helping them navigate life’s challenges. I support women who struggle with managing relationships, emotional dysregulation, intellectualizing their feelings, trusting themselves, & depression, anxiety, ADHD, & trauma.
(469) 263-1563 View (469) 263-1563
Photo of Vic A Doster - BPOQe, Doster & Hoffman Therapy and Consultation, LCSW, LCDC, LMSW, LCSW-S, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
BPOQe, Doster & Hoffman Therapy and Consultation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC, LMSW, LCSW-S, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75238  (Online Only)
High regards to you as you consider starting the journey of working towards becoming your best self. We are a team of pro- Black, spiritually aware, LGBTQ+ competent and affirming, down to earth therapists. We engage our clients in a holistic and person-centered approach, and value collaboration in the therapy space. Come as you are and we will meet you where you are at. Prioritizing your mental health, or even figuring out what that means can be super daunting. Our goal is to assist you in that process, in whatever way we can within our scope of practice.
High regards to you as you consider starting the journey of working towards becoming your best self. We are a team of pro- Black, spiritually aware, LGBTQ+ competent and affirming, down to earth therapists. We engage our clients in a holistic and person-centered approach, and value collaboration in the therapy space. Come as you are and we will meet you where you are at. Prioritizing your mental health, or even figuring out what that means can be super daunting. Our goal is to assist you in that process, in whatever way we can within our scope of practice.
(469) 306-1531 View (469) 306-1531
Photo of Self-Esteem + Anxiety + Introvert Support At Fitzpatrick Therapy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Self-Esteem + Anxiety + Introvert Support At Fitzpatrick Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75240  (Online Only)
As a black female introvert who has struggled with anxiety and self-esteem, I will meet you where you are and offer the support you need to find your unique strengths.
You want to appear more outgoing, productive, and like you are “on top of things” but deep down you are struggling to cope with anxiety and low self-esteem. You're someone who enjoys your alone time but still finds yourself wanting to be active and feel included. You want to feel less exhausted and find that too many things going on at once can leave you feeling frazzled. You also may struggle with overanalyzing a past conversation you had or maybe you feel self-critical. You are ready to start feeling some relief, hope, and happiness again. Most of all, you're ready to feel less anxious and stressed. I want to help you get there.
As a black female introvert who has struggled with anxiety and self-esteem, I will meet you where you are and offer the support you need to find your unique strengths.
You want to appear more outgoing, productive, and like you are “on top of things” but deep down you are struggling to cope with anxiety and low self-esteem. You're someone who enjoys your alone time but still finds yourself wanting to be active and feel included. You want to feel less exhausted and find that too many things going on at once can leave you feeling frazzled. You also may struggle with overanalyzing a past conversation you had or maybe you feel self-critical. You are ready to start feeling some relief, hope, and happiness again. Most of all, you're ready to feel less anxious and stressed. I want to help you get there.
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Photo of Scharnett King - Lavender Healing Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lavender Healing Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hurst, TX 76053
With a staff of a black, female therapists, we pride ourselves on meeting you where you are, so you can be fully vulnerable and heard.
You feel that you are at wits end and you have tried everything you could. I am assuming this is your last stop before giving up. I urge you to give it one more go, at LHC. LHC is a veteran, African American and Woman Owned practice. that offers marriage counseling and sex therapy for adults and also marriage intensives. We now also offer therapy for children and teens experiencing anxiety, depression, body issues and hardships in their family, school and other relationships.
With a staff of a black, female therapists, we pride ourselves on meeting you where you are, so you can be fully vulnerable and heard.
You feel that you are at wits end and you have tried everything you could. I am assuming this is your last stop before giving up. I urge you to give it one more go, at LHC. LHC is a veteran, African American and Woman Owned practice. that offers marriage counseling and sex therapy for adults and also marriage intensives. We now also offer therapy for children and teens experiencing anxiety, depression, body issues and hardships in their family, school and other relationships.
(682) 328-0063 View (682) 328-0063
Photo of Bree Hearn, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bree Hearn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208  (Online Only)
If you have found this page you are at the right place at the right time, EXHALE. First, I want to congratulate you for taking the first step to healing, you're on the right track. Life does not not come with instructions and I'm telling you it's ok to get some help along the way. I work specifically with black women and POC ready to do the work required to become the best version of themselves. This includes addressing generational trauma, life transitions, low self-esteem, perfectionism, anxiety and poor boundaries.
If you have found this page you are at the right place at the right time, EXHALE. First, I want to congratulate you for taking the first step to healing, you're on the right track. Life does not not come with instructions and I'm telling you it's ok to get some help along the way. I work specifically with black women and POC ready to do the work required to become the best version of themselves. This includes addressing generational trauma, life transitions, low self-esteem, perfectionism, anxiety and poor boundaries.
(469) 306-4868 View (469) 306-4868
Photo of April K Fich, LMSW
April K Fich
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75232  (Online Only)
Let's face it, life can be tough. Do you find yourself trying to live up to unrealistic expectations in your career, school, at home or in your relationships? As a woman, I understand the internal struggles of trying to be the best at everything and putting our own needs last. As a black woman, I have remained stoic in times of despair to avoid appearing weak and felt undervalued despite working harder than my peers. And as a child of an immigrant, I understand the hopes put on the first generation American to achieve the goals that your parents could only dream of.
Let's face it, life can be tough. Do you find yourself trying to live up to unrealistic expectations in your career, school, at home or in your relationships? As a woman, I understand the internal struggles of trying to be the best at everything and putting our own needs last. As a black woman, I have remained stoic in times of despair to avoid appearing weak and felt undervalued despite working harder than my peers. And as a child of an immigrant, I understand the hopes put on the first generation American to achieve the goals that your parents could only dream of.
(469) 228-8433 View (469) 228-8433
Photo of Kiandra Daniels, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kiandra Daniels
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75207  (Online Only)
Color Wheel Therapy, PLLC believes that everyone is capable of acquiring necessary change for better lives. Our goal is to provide a safe, empathetic space to open the door for improved lives and empower individuals to strive for autonomy. Color Wheel Therapy, PLLC strives to provide a down-to-earth therapeutic environment to decrease the stigma of mental illness in the Black community and to normalize conversations about mental wellness through a structured, honest, and empathic therapy process. If you are new to therapy, this is just the place to get that comforting experience that you are hoping for!
Color Wheel Therapy, PLLC believes that everyone is capable of acquiring necessary change for better lives. Our goal is to provide a safe, empathetic space to open the door for improved lives and empower individuals to strive for autonomy. Color Wheel Therapy, PLLC strives to provide a down-to-earth therapeutic environment to decrease the stigma of mental illness in the Black community and to normalize conversations about mental wellness through a structured, honest, and empathic therapy process. If you are new to therapy, this is just the place to get that comforting experience that you are hoping for!
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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.