Black and African American Therapists in McGregor, TX

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Photo of Sheree Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheree Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lorena, TX 76655
Hello, I am Sheree Johnson, LCSW. My passion involves helping individuals meet their healing goals while feeling better about themselves and their future. My hope is that I will encourage/inspire those receiving services to live a fulfilled life through an effective therapeutic approach. I have expertise in a range of therapy modalities but the ones I use most frequently are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and person-centered therapy.
Hello, I am Sheree Johnson, LCSW. My passion involves helping individuals meet their healing goals while feeling better about themselves and their future. My hope is that I will encourage/inspire those receiving services to live a fulfilled life through an effective therapeutic approach. I have expertise in a range of therapy modalities but the ones I use most frequently are cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and person-centered therapy.
(346) 584-2404 View (346) 584-2404

Online Therapists

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 Muldarde Fortune, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Muldarde Fortune
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
Struggling with managing your child’s behaviors? Or life transitions? Or perhaps first-generation cultural challenges? I work with adults who wish to build coping skills while working through tough life situations. Perhaps your kiddo between ages 3-11 is showing signs of ADHD and/or emotional and behavioral dysregulation. I provide parenting therapy to help you learn how to navigate the obstacles that you and your child may be facing. Additionally, as a Haitian born, American, black female, I bring a culturally humble perspective to those who are struggling with challenges faced by POC and first-generation immigrants / Americans.
Struggling with managing your child’s behaviors? Or life transitions? Or perhaps first-generation cultural challenges? I work with adults who wish to build coping skills while working through tough life situations. Perhaps your kiddo between ages 3-11 is showing signs of ADHD and/or emotional and behavioral dysregulation. I provide parenting therapy to help you learn how to navigate the obstacles that you and your child may be facing. Additionally, as a Haitian born, American, black female, I bring a culturally humble perspective to those who are struggling with challenges faced by POC and first-generation immigrants / Americans.
(737) 284-0225 View (737) 284-0225
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 Kendra Archer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kendra Archer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704  (Online Only)
I have over 13 years of experience providing person-centered, strengths-based, and culturally informed psychotherapy. I've provided services to a wide range of clients including adults, geriatric populations, BIPOC and Black-identified, LGBTQ+, and youth. I utilize psychodynamic and evidenced-based approaches to support my clients in their healing journey. My approach is collaborative, relational, and supportive in guiding clients as they set and meet their goals.
I have over 13 years of experience providing person-centered, strengths-based, and culturally informed psychotherapy. I've provided services to a wide range of clients including adults, geriatric populations, BIPOC and Black-identified, LGBTQ+, and youth. I utilize psychodynamic and evidenced-based approaches to support my clients in their healing journey. My approach is collaborative, relational, and supportive in guiding clients as they set and meet their goals.
(737) 271-0076 View (737) 271-0076
Photo of Traci Parramore-Chambers, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Traci Parramore-Chambers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78738  (Online Only)
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.
(940) 350-5235 View (940) 350-5235
Photo of Brandy Banks, PsyD, Psychologist
Brandy Banks
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731
I became a psychologist because growing up in the African American community I have witnessed the stigma and reluctance this community had when it comes to mental health, and I wanted to change their views.
Fear and a misunderstanding of what psychotherapy is, is often what keeps many people from getting the help they so desperately need. I have worked with adolescents, adults, seniors, and the LGBTQ community. I have experienced working with clients in private practice, inpatient and forensic settings whom have struggled with trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and various personality disorders. Clients are often thankful for the help and support that they experience and wonder why they didn’t get the help sooner.
I became a psychologist because growing up in the African American community I have witnessed the stigma and reluctance this community had when it comes to mental health, and I wanted to change their views.
Fear and a misunderstanding of what psychotherapy is, is often what keeps many people from getting the help they so desperately need. I have worked with adolescents, adults, seniors, and the LGBTQ community. I have experienced working with clients in private practice, inpatient and forensic settings whom have struggled with trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and various personality disorders. Clients are often thankful for the help and support that they experience and wonder why they didn’t get the help sooner.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
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 Tralynza Conley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tralynza Conley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
I entered this field because I am passionate about eliminating the mental illness stigma and closing the gap to access to care, particularly in black and indigenous people of color (BIPOC) communities.
I am Tralynza, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I was born and raised in Memphis, TN, and I am a nine-year U.S. Air Force, active duty, war veteran. I earned my bachelor’s in social work at Texas A&M-Central Texas and a master’s in social work at Our Lady of the Lake University-Worden School of Social Service, with concentration on Hispanic children & families. I have experience working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, depression, anxiety, children, teens, adults, & groups. I'm a certified Mental Health First Aider, specializing in suicide prevention and intervention and a Certified Grief Informed therapist.
I entered this field because I am passionate about eliminating the mental illness stigma and closing the gap to access to care, particularly in black and indigenous people of color (BIPOC) communities.
I am Tralynza, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I was born and raised in Memphis, TN, and I am a nine-year U.S. Air Force, active duty, war veteran. I earned my bachelor’s in social work at Texas A&M-Central Texas and a master’s in social work at Our Lady of the Lake University-Worden School of Social Service, with concentration on Hispanic children & families. I have experience working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, depression, anxiety, children, teens, adults, & groups. I'm a certified Mental Health First Aider, specializing in suicide prevention and intervention and a Certified Grief Informed therapist.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
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 Carishia Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carishia Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am a Black queer cis woman mental health therapist dedicated to empowering and supporting Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) and LGBTQIA+ teens and adults. With a deep commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by these communities, I offer compassionate and specialized care for those navigating identity, trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and living with HIV.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am a Black queer cis woman mental health therapist dedicated to empowering and supporting Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) and LGBTQIA+ teens and adults. With a deep commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by these communities, I offer compassionate and specialized care for those navigating identity, trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and living with HIV.
(737) 387-5484 View (737) 387-5484
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 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 Danisha C. Baro, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Danisha C. Baro
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78751  (Online Only)
Being a child of Black Dominican and Cuban immigrants, I deeply understand the challenges that come with adapting to new environments, trauma, systems of oppression, and cultural norms.
Step into a honest space where your journey of self-discovery and growth is met with warmth, direct feedback and compassion. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, you're welcomed with empathy and tools to navigate life's challenges. Together, we'll embark on a path towards clarity, healthier patterns, and a renewed sense of purpose, empowering you to embrace authenticity and find deep inner peace. I am a bilingual (Spanish) psychotherapist licensed in both New York and Texas, and presently a doctoral candidate in Counseling Psychology at New Mexico State University.
Being a child of Black Dominican and Cuban immigrants, I deeply understand the challenges that come with adapting to new environments, trauma, systems of oppression, and cultural norms.
Step into a honest space where your journey of self-discovery and growth is met with warmth, direct feedback and compassion. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, you're welcomed with empathy and tools to navigate life's challenges. Together, we'll embark on a path towards clarity, healthier patterns, and a renewed sense of purpose, empowering you to embrace authenticity and find deep inner peace. I am a bilingual (Spanish) psychotherapist licensed in both New York and Texas, and presently a doctoral candidate in Counseling Psychology at New Mexico State University.
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Photo of Dr. Kamaria Taylor-McCune - Yolo Therapy, PhD, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yolo Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75225  (Online Only)
We are a practice of Black therapists who strive to understand the needs of our clients in order to create an optimized approach to meet their goals.
Our practice works with Black clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and stress management to process the origins of their concerns through a racially-sensitive lens. We also work with adult clients seeking to improve their relationships with self and others by helping them understand and process the impact of historical and generational racial trauma on their relationships with themselves, their families, their friends, and their partners.
We are a practice of Black therapists who strive to understand the needs of our clients in order to create an optimized approach to meet their goals.
Our practice works with Black clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and stress management to process the origins of their concerns through a racially-sensitive lens. We also work with adult clients seeking to improve their relationships with self and others by helping them understand and process the impact of historical and generational racial trauma on their relationships with themselves, their families, their friends, and their partners.
(412) 419-0980 View (412) 419-0980
Photo of Christal Bloomer, LPC, Counselor
Christal Bloomer
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Burleson, TX 76028  (Online Only)
Greetings to you! My core value as a therapist is that all clients deserve unconditional support and service. I am a POC ( black and indigenous) and have vast experience counseling clients from marginalized populations and clients from 'alternative' communities. My approach is inclusive, trauma informed, and client centered; come as you are and know you will be in a safe, respectful, supportive space as we listen to each other and make progress in your therapeutic recovery.
Greetings to you! My core value as a therapist is that all clients deserve unconditional support and service. I am a POC ( black and indigenous) and have vast experience counseling clients from marginalized populations and clients from 'alternative' communities. My approach is inclusive, trauma informed, and client centered; come as you are and know you will be in a safe, respectful, supportive space as we listen to each other and make progress in your therapeutic recovery.
(817) 859-7220 View (817) 859-7220
Photo of Jane Chioma Obi, MA, NCC
Jane Chioma Obi
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Manor, TX 78653
As a Black woman in America, I understand the unique challenges faced by women who carry the weight of the world on their shoulders.
Are you a woman juggling multiple roles—whether as a family member, a professional, or a creative who marches to the beat of their own drum? I see you. You might be struggling with imposter phenomenon, burnt-out from perfectionism, a tough transition, or unsure if you can keep up the superwoman act. You're overwhelmed by your emotions, caught in cycles of rumination, and find it difficult to achieve balance, leading to anxiety, isolation, poor health, low self-esteem, and doubting your worth. If thoughts like "I’m not good enough," "I don't belong", or "I’m afraid of failing" are weighing you down, you’re not alone.
As a Black woman in America, I understand the unique challenges faced by women who carry the weight of the world on their shoulders.
Are you a woman juggling multiple roles—whether as a family member, a professional, or a creative who marches to the beat of their own drum? I see you. You might be struggling with imposter phenomenon, burnt-out from perfectionism, a tough transition, or unsure if you can keep up the superwoman act. You're overwhelmed by your emotions, caught in cycles of rumination, and find it difficult to achieve balance, leading to anxiety, isolation, poor health, low self-esteem, and doubting your worth. If thoughts like "I’m not good enough," "I don't belong", or "I’m afraid of failing" are weighing you down, you’re not alone.
(512) 270-1887 View (512) 270-1887
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 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 Courtney Miller, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75226  (Online Only)
It is my goal to be apart of breaking the stigma of mental health in the black community and promote healing.
Are you in a relationship, but somehow feel lonely? Do you find yourself struggling with boundaries, communication, self-esteem, and conflict? I’m happy to help you develop the skills necessary to navigate dating and relationships more effectively. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas and I’m excited to assist you with your personal, career, mental, and emotional needs. Since you are reading this, that means you are considering creating a new narrative to manifest the future and the relationships you have always dreamt for yourself and/or your family. Investing in your future now is key. Let’s get started!
It is my goal to be apart of breaking the stigma of mental health in the black community and promote healing.
Are you in a relationship, but somehow feel lonely? Do you find yourself struggling with boundaries, communication, self-esteem, and conflict? I’m happy to help you develop the skills necessary to navigate dating and relationships more effectively. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas and I’m excited to assist you with your personal, career, mental, and emotional needs. Since you are reading this, that means you are considering creating a new narrative to manifest the future and the relationships you have always dreamt for yourself and/or your family. Investing in your future now is key. Let’s get started!
(346) 209-0691 View (346) 209-0691

See more therapy options for McGregor

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.