Black and African American Therapists in Joyce, WA

Photo of Roberta L Charles - Eaglewolf House Counseling, MEd, CAS, LMHC, Counselor
Eaglewolf House Counseling
Counselor, MEd, CAS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Joyce, WA 98343
I am a cognitive behavioral therapist and use many other modalities as well as a guide for spiritual practices. I am a trained specialist for American Natives an I am also a multicultural therapist. I also do in home visits and crisis calls, as well as institutional visits. Make an appointment with me please call 360-460-5963! I work with teens, adults, families, couples therapy and elders! I can take clients who have Medicaid,Premara,Regence and veterans Choice, as weIl as scale, and other insurance if I know what it is before I see you.I am on the Salish Health Board for this region, a behavioral health board.
I am a cognitive behavioral therapist and use many other modalities as well as a guide for spiritual practices. I am a trained specialist for American Natives an I am also a multicultural therapist. I also do in home visits and crisis calls, as well as institutional visits. Make an appointment with me please call 360-460-5963! I work with teens, adults, families, couples therapy and elders! I can take clients who have Medicaid,Premara,Regence and veterans Choice, as weIl as scale, and other insurance if I know what it is before I see you.I am on the Salish Health Board for this region, a behavioral health board.
(360) 663-9114 View (360) 663-9114

Online Therapists

Photo of Roza Aman, MAED, LMHCA, Counselor
Roza Aman
Counselor, MAED, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seatac, WA 98168  (Online Only)
I am a woman of color and a first-generation therapist who speaks multiple languages. I speak Oromo, Swahili, Amharic and English. I believe therapy is a space for people to discover who they are in a safe place. I strive to create an environment that will allow you to look at the different ways you define yourself. We will also explore and face the challenges you have experienced to help you gain understanding as to how these shapes who you are today. As a Muslim Black woman, I believe the characteristics you hold are a part of your journey to shaping the person you are and/or who you want to be in your life.
I am a woman of color and a first-generation therapist who speaks multiple languages. I speak Oromo, Swahili, Amharic and English. I believe therapy is a space for people to discover who they are in a safe place. I strive to create an environment that will allow you to look at the different ways you define yourself. We will also explore and face the challenges you have experienced to help you gain understanding as to how these shapes who you are today. As a Muslim Black woman, I believe the characteristics you hold are a part of your journey to shaping the person you are and/or who you want to be in your life.
(253) 465-2484 View (253) 465-2484
Photo of Rian A Roberson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Rian A Roberson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98108  (Online Only)
My favorite outlet is training in Kajukembo Kung Fu, and I am actively training for my black belt.
Open to new clients. My ideal client is an emerging adult who is ready to start on the path towards living their best, healthiest, and most authentic life. I work with clients from every background, but I am especially passionate about serving the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. Many of my clients aspire to learn techniques to manage depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. I enjoy aiding clients on their journey towards authentic self-expression, higher self-esteem, powerful communication skills, and utilizing boundaries, especially for clients with marginalized identities.
My favorite outlet is training in Kajukembo Kung Fu, and I am actively training for my black belt.
Open to new clients. My ideal client is an emerging adult who is ready to start on the path towards living their best, healthiest, and most authentic life. I work with clients from every background, but I am especially passionate about serving the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. Many of my clients aspire to learn techniques to manage depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. I enjoy aiding clients on their journey towards authentic self-expression, higher self-esteem, powerful communication skills, and utilizing boundaries, especially for clients with marginalized identities.
(206) 210-5368 View (206) 210-5368
Photo of Christopher Edward, MS,  SPP, LMHCA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christopher Edward
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, SPP, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Lake Stevens, WA 98258
I am a Black counselor and Black mental performance coach.
You may be lacking confidence, uncertain of what your next steps are, or are suffering with some form of anxiety or depression. Here you can learn about how to accept the past hurts, be intentional with the present moment, and prepare for the future. Come lost leave feeling seen, heard, and known. I seek to put you first, seeking out to meet your needs by mindful reflecting, strength building, positive relationships and constructive feedback, working together to unlock your full potential. Currently only accepting Mental Performance clients.
I am a Black counselor and Black mental performance coach.
You may be lacking confidence, uncertain of what your next steps are, or are suffering with some form of anxiety or depression. Here you can learn about how to accept the past hurts, be intentional with the present moment, and prepare for the future. Come lost leave feeling seen, heard, and known. I seek to put you first, seeking out to meet your needs by mindful reflecting, strength building, positive relationships and constructive feedback, working together to unlock your full potential. Currently only accepting Mental Performance clients.
(425) 368-9367 View (425) 368-9367
Photo of Claudelle R Glasgow - Claudelle R Glasgow, PsyD, PLLC, PsyD, SEP, Psychologist
Claudelle R Glasgow, PsyD, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98117  (Online Only)
I center my work with Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) persons at their intersections, most often LGBTQA+, artists, activists, deep seekers, and other healers. Many have a strong spiritual connection to their current obstacles and are willing to integrate that into their treatment. Presenting concerns range from racial trauma to life transitions, grief to identity. There is an understanding that what is presenting is not a problem, where the goal is creating more space around struggles, creating more options, finding a different perspective, and Being more fully.
I center my work with Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) persons at their intersections, most often LGBTQA+, artists, activists, deep seekers, and other healers. Many have a strong spiritual connection to their current obstacles and are willing to integrate that into their treatment. Presenting concerns range from racial trauma to life transitions, grief to identity. There is an understanding that what is presenting is not a problem, where the goal is creating more space around struggles, creating more options, finding a different perspective, and Being more fully.
(312) 854-2081 View (312) 854-2081
Photo of Kiana Clay, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kiana Clay
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
I am a Black, straight, cisgender woman who was born and raised in California.
I understand how challenging it can be to reach out for help. My aim is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings and can meaningfully process your experiences. I provide affirming, evidence-based mental health support for those dealing with anxiety, depression, and stress. My approach to therapy is warm, client-centered, and collaborative. Together, we'll identify the goals you aspire to achieve and develop a personalized plan to help you reach them.
I am a Black, straight, cisgender woman who was born and raised in California.
I understand how challenging it can be to reach out for help. My aim is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings and can meaningfully process your experiences. I provide affirming, evidence-based mental health support for those dealing with anxiety, depression, and stress. My approach to therapy is warm, client-centered, and collaborative. Together, we'll identify the goals you aspire to achieve and develop a personalized plan to help you reach them.
(360) 926-9811 View (360) 926-9811
Photo of Brandon B Hoggans - Life Guide Northwest PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Life Guide Northwest PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98030
Life Guide Northwest was founded in 2010 in Portland Oregon by my late father Stevie B. Hoggans. His sole purpose in establishing Life Guide Northwest was to create a treatment agency to support the specific needs of the BIPOC ( Black, Indigenous, and people of color) community. This level of support was not available in his community, which dealt with socio-economic challenges which manifested into issues such as behavioral health conditions, crime, substance abuse, poverty, and homelessness. Like my father, I am passionate about helping ALL individuals who are struggling to navigate interpersonal challenges.
Life Guide Northwest was founded in 2010 in Portland Oregon by my late father Stevie B. Hoggans. His sole purpose in establishing Life Guide Northwest was to create a treatment agency to support the specific needs of the BIPOC ( Black, Indigenous, and people of color) community. This level of support was not available in his community, which dealt with socio-economic challenges which manifested into issues such as behavioral health conditions, crime, substance abuse, poverty, and homelessness. Like my father, I am passionate about helping ALL individuals who are struggling to navigate interpersonal challenges.
(253) 652-5938 View (253) 652-5938
Photo of Shariah Hunt, LMHCA, MA, Counselor
Shariah Hunt
Counselor, LMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98513  (Online Only)
I enjoy collaborating with individuals and couples, especially those who identify as Black, Indigenous, POC or apart of the LGBTQ+ community, to access their innate healing power, reclaim ancestral knowledge, and achieve their vision of wellness. I practice with the beliefs that everyone is the expert of their own story, and have the power to heal themselves under the right circumstances. I provide support to those ready to process and work through past trauma, grief, relationship challenges, life transitions, spirituality, identity struggles, multicultural experiences, and building connection and intimacy.
I enjoy collaborating with individuals and couples, especially those who identify as Black, Indigenous, POC or apart of the LGBTQ+ community, to access their innate healing power, reclaim ancestral knowledge, and achieve their vision of wellness. I practice with the beliefs that everyone is the expert of their own story, and have the power to heal themselves under the right circumstances. I provide support to those ready to process and work through past trauma, grief, relationship challenges, life transitions, spirituality, identity struggles, multicultural experiences, and building connection and intimacy.
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Photo of Derek Cooper, LMHC, Counselor
Derek Cooper
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Derek graduated with a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Bowie State University with a focus on destigmatizing counseling for the black/brown and LGBTQIA communities.
Derek Cooper, LMHC, is a therapist at the Thriving Center of Psychology. He works with a wide range of presenting challenges, including addiction, identity crises, self-esteem/confidence issues, emotion/stress management, and trauma, in addition to working with anxiety and depression. As an Afro-Caribbean who takes pride in his heritage, he brings a multicultural perspective to his work and has extensive experience with individuals from a variety of backgrounds, ethnicities, and identities. He has particular expertise in working with people of color and the LGBTQIA community.
Derek graduated with a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Bowie State University with a focus on destigmatizing counseling for the black/brown and LGBTQIA communities.
Derek Cooper, LMHC, is a therapist at the Thriving Center of Psychology. He works with a wide range of presenting challenges, including addiction, identity crises, self-esteem/confidence issues, emotion/stress management, and trauma, in addition to working with anxiety and depression. As an Afro-Caribbean who takes pride in his heritage, he brings a multicultural perspective to his work and has extensive experience with individuals from a variety of backgrounds, ethnicities, and identities. He has particular expertise in working with people of color and the LGBTQIA community.
(206) 208-8812 View (206) 208-8812
Photo of Richard W. Solitaire, MA, MHP, LMHC, CMHS, ACS, Counselor
Richard W. Solitaire
Counselor, MA, MHP, LMHC, CMHS, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98409  (Online Only)
As an African-American male providing therapy since 2007, I bring a multicultural perspective that has enabled me to work effectively with a wide range of clients. I'm a licensed mental health therapist who mainly works from a Cognitive Behavioral and Humanistic Therapeutic approach to help address many issues in counseling. My belief is that people and families experience different problems and need help to navigate through them by addressing their thoughts, feelings, behaviors and relationships with others. Washington State Approved LICENSED CLINICAL SUPERVISOR.
As an African-American male providing therapy since 2007, I bring a multicultural perspective that has enabled me to work effectively with a wide range of clients. I'm a licensed mental health therapist who mainly works from a Cognitive Behavioral and Humanistic Therapeutic approach to help address many issues in counseling. My belief is that people and families experience different problems and need help to navigate through them by addressing their thoughts, feelings, behaviors and relationships with others. Washington State Approved LICENSED CLINICAL SUPERVISOR.
(253) 455-7471 View (253) 455-7471
Photo of David Parks, LMHCA, Counselor
David Parks
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104
Being Black, queer, and neurodivergent, I have had the same struggles.
Many of us feel out of step with others around us. Difficulties with completing tasks and organization lead to struggles and frustration in relationships. Difficulty with social skills and anxiety make it hard to reach out to others for friendship or dating. Some of us feel shame and isolation from ADHD, autism, and other forms of neurodiversity. Our unique hobbies or interests keep us out of step. Shame keeps us from exploring who we are in friendships, dating, and sexually. People often do not see us. We feel alone. This manifests as depression, anxiety, and difficulty regulating our emotions.
Being Black, queer, and neurodivergent, I have had the same struggles.
Many of us feel out of step with others around us. Difficulties with completing tasks and organization lead to struggles and frustration in relationships. Difficulty with social skills and anxiety make it hard to reach out to others for friendship or dating. Some of us feel shame and isolation from ADHD, autism, and other forms of neurodiversity. Our unique hobbies or interests keep us out of step. Shame keeps us from exploring who we are in friendships, dating, and sexually. People often do not see us. We feel alone. This manifests as depression, anxiety, and difficulty regulating our emotions.
(509) 581-4308 View (509) 581-4308
Photo of Derick Reinhardt, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Derick Reinhardt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Redmond, WA 98052  (Online Only)
I’m Black, non-binary, and a queer-identifying therapist, committed to honoring lived experiences and creating a warm-hearted environment for healing and growth. I want to establish moving away from the belief ‘what’s wrong with me’ and transitioning into a space where we make sense of what happened to you. I’m not here to fix you, because you are not broken or damaged goods. I’m here to support you on this yellow brick road we call life.
I’m Black, non-binary, and a queer-identifying therapist, committed to honoring lived experiences and creating a warm-hearted environment for healing and growth. I want to establish moving away from the belief ‘what’s wrong with me’ and transitioning into a space where we make sense of what happened to you. I’m not here to fix you, because you are not broken or damaged goods. I’m here to support you on this yellow brick road we call life.
(425) 276-7030 View (425) 276-7030
Photo of Percy L. Sturgis III, MEd, LMHCA, CANS-F, Counselor
Percy L. Sturgis III
Counselor, MEd, LMHCA, CANS-F
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lakewood, WA 98499  (Online Only)
I was raised in a multicultural home, my mom is Thai and my dad is African-American.
Are you or a loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, family conflict, school challenges, confidence, loneliness, or even life stressors; therapy may be a beneficial avenue to explore. Nowadays, counseling is more normalized and many individuals are moving in the direction of seeking support as they are noticing the potential benefits of therapy. Lets explore financial options and what would work best for you. I am able to provide a safe and confidential space to express your emotions, navigate life obstacles, strengthen relationships, and explore positive coping strategies; I am here to assist.
I was raised in a multicultural home, my mom is Thai and my dad is African-American.
Are you or a loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, family conflict, school challenges, confidence, loneliness, or even life stressors; therapy may be a beneficial avenue to explore. Nowadays, counseling is more normalized and many individuals are moving in the direction of seeking support as they are noticing the potential benefits of therapy. Lets explore financial options and what would work best for you. I am able to provide a safe and confidential space to express your emotions, navigate life obstacles, strengthen relationships, and explore positive coping strategies; I am here to assist.
(253) 400-1913 View (253) 400-1913
Photo of Larry Mabry, BS, MA
Larry Mabry
BS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Renton, WA 98059  (Online Only)
I’ve successfully assisted Caucasian men and woman, African American men and women, Latino, LBGT, and individuals going through life transitions, empty nesters and college students aged 18-24.
Hi there, How could I be of service to you? Throughout my many lessons taught and learned, I’ve realized that life is a school and earth is a classroom of many lessons. I’ve learned to cooperate with the ebb and flow of life and to co-create with the universe. It is my intention to align with other souls who are in a place within their life in which they aspire to grow and expand within. It's time to make the necessary changes in your life now. Reach out, I promise, you are in safe hands...
I’ve successfully assisted Caucasian men and woman, African American men and women, Latino, LBGT, and individuals going through life transitions, empty nesters and college students aged 18-24.
Hi there, How could I be of service to you? Throughout my many lessons taught and learned, I’ve realized that life is a school and earth is a classroom of many lessons. I’ve learned to cooperate with the ebb and flow of life and to co-create with the universe. It is my intention to align with other souls who are in a place within their life in which they aspire to grow and expand within. It's time to make the necessary changes in your life now. Reach out, I promise, you are in safe hands...
(248) 595-7873 View (248) 595-7873
Photo of Simone Bullinger, MACP, LMHCA, Counselor
Simone Bullinger
Counselor, MACP, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98467  (Online Only)
I am a mixed-race, queer womxn of Nigerian and German heritage residing upon unceded Coast Salish and Duwamish lands. I am a person-centered and holistically focused therapist who is committed to centering the experiences of Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and Queer Folk, although I serve individuals, couples, and youth from all walks of life. I embrace a holistic view of well-being. I believe that connection to self, others, nature, and the transcendent can contribute to a healthy state of being. I utilize the application of Liberation, and social justice frameworks while adapting and incorporating new techniques as needed.
I am a mixed-race, queer womxn of Nigerian and German heritage residing upon unceded Coast Salish and Duwamish lands. I am a person-centered and holistically focused therapist who is committed to centering the experiences of Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and Queer Folk, although I serve individuals, couples, and youth from all walks of life. I embrace a holistic view of well-being. I believe that connection to self, others, nature, and the transcendent can contribute to a healthy state of being. I utilize the application of Liberation, and social justice frameworks while adapting and incorporating new techniques as needed.
(206) 456-6145 View (206) 456-6145
Photo of Justin Talkish - Justin Talkish Counseling , LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Justin Talkish Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98178  (Online Only)
Struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma? Let's navigate these challenges together. I'm Justin, a dedicated licensed therapist specializing in DBT and TF-CBT. As a Black male therapist, I bring a unique perspective to my practice, fostering an empathetic, secure environment for adults and teens. Our sessions integrate mental, physical, and emotional wellness for holistic healing. We'll explore your story, tackle your struggles, and work together to cultivate a more fulfilling, balanced life. Ready to start your journey? Reach out to me.
Struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or trauma? Let's navigate these challenges together. I'm Justin, a dedicated licensed therapist specializing in DBT and TF-CBT. As a Black male therapist, I bring a unique perspective to my practice, fostering an empathetic, secure environment for adults and teens. Our sessions integrate mental, physical, and emotional wellness for holistic healing. We'll explore your story, tackle your struggles, and work together to cultivate a more fulfilling, balanced life. Ready to start your journey? Reach out to me.
(425) 217-1702 View (425) 217-1702
Photo of Ali Pagan Williams, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ali Pagan Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112  (Online Only)
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and compassionate space for you to re-connect with your whole self (body included!) as well as your strengths, and to process through emotions and experiences that feel challenging to face and sort through on your own. As a black mixed race person of color myself, my racial identity is a lens through which I see the work and how I show up in the therapeutic space. I have a special interest in processing through grief for those who have experienced loss of any kind. I utilize calm, reflective listening, somatic awareness, social justice and systems focus, and a strengths-based approach.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and compassionate space for you to re-connect with your whole self (body included!) as well as your strengths, and to process through emotions and experiences that feel challenging to face and sort through on your own. As a black mixed race person of color myself, my racial identity is a lens through which I see the work and how I show up in the therapeutic space. I have a special interest in processing through grief for those who have experienced loss of any kind. I utilize calm, reflective listening, somatic awareness, social justice and systems focus, and a strengths-based approach.
(206) 801-6263 View (206) 801-6263
Photo of Jade Herbert, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jade Herbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Auburn, WA 98002  (Online Only)
I strive to promote the well-being of Black individuals' and dedicate my practice to helping young adults unlock their Black girl, Black boy, and Black person magic.
I believe everyone deserves a chance to find peace and joy in their lives. My personal experience of being a plus-size Black woman has given me insight into how oppression and internalized oppression can shape our experiences and view of the world, and stop us from reaching our fullest potential. No matter the circumstance, you deserve a safe space to discuss the pressures, stigmas, trauma, shame, hurt, loss, and oppressive systems you have to navigate every day. Therapy should serve as a space for you to explore your many intersectional identities and start the journey to becoming your best self.
I strive to promote the well-being of Black individuals' and dedicate my practice to helping young adults unlock their Black girl, Black boy, and Black person magic.
I believe everyone deserves a chance to find peace and joy in their lives. My personal experience of being a plus-size Black woman has given me insight into how oppression and internalized oppression can shape our experiences and view of the world, and stop us from reaching our fullest potential. No matter the circumstance, you deserve a safe space to discuss the pressures, stigmas, trauma, shame, hurt, loss, and oppressive systems you have to navigate every day. Therapy should serve as a space for you to explore your many intersectional identities and start the journey to becoming your best self.
(253) 600-3257 View (253) 600-3257
Photo of Abdullahi Jaranow, LMHCA, Counselor
Abdullahi Jaranow
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98178
As a licensed therapist and clergy, my aim is to provide my clients with the utmost understanding of their diverse needs. With my background as a black, immigrant, and Muslim individual, I bring a unique perspective to the table that fosters cultural humility. My approach is personalized and family-centered, valuing the stories of each and every client. I create a supportive environment that embraces all identities, and I help my clients navigate their mental health journeys with confidence, using evidence-based practices and cultural competency.
As a licensed therapist and clergy, my aim is to provide my clients with the utmost understanding of their diverse needs. With my background as a black, immigrant, and Muslim individual, I bring a unique perspective to the table that fosters cultural humility. My approach is personalized and family-centered, valuing the stories of each and every client. I create a supportive environment that embraces all identities, and I help my clients navigate their mental health journeys with confidence, using evidence-based practices and cultural competency.
(206) 929-2614 View (206) 929-2614
Photo of Danesha Deloatch, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danesha Deloatch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Harbor, WA 98277  (Online Only)
My goal is to empower clients from underserved Black, Indigenous, and minority communities to live fulfilling lives.
Life can present us with numerous daunting barriers, leaving us to shoulder immense pressure without feeling, leading to self-doubt. The demands of career, relationships, and family (such as postpartum care or fertility issues) can be utterly exhausting, even overwhelming - especially for military families who face these challenges at an elevated rate. However, we don't have to face these barriers alone. Our goal is to help clients cultivate self-love and compassion, problem-solve effectively, and create a safe space to overcome the obstacles in their lives.
My goal is to empower clients from underserved Black, Indigenous, and minority communities to live fulfilling lives.
Life can present us with numerous daunting barriers, leaving us to shoulder immense pressure without feeling, leading to self-doubt. The demands of career, relationships, and family (such as postpartum care or fertility issues) can be utterly exhausting, even overwhelming - especially for military families who face these challenges at an elevated rate. However, we don't have to face these barriers alone. Our goal is to help clients cultivate self-love and compassion, problem-solve effectively, and create a safe space to overcome the obstacles in their lives.
(360) 505-0824 View (360) 505-0824
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.