Black and African American Therapists in Opelika, AL

Shelia Holmes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
ED in Clinical Mental Health Counseling; I am a doctoral candidate focusing research on the impact of stress on Black women.
“Fall down seven times and stand up eight." Life can be difficult, but it's important to learn, keep moving forward, and conquer obstacles you may face. Life's journey will contain the unexpected, and therapy provides the navigation system to maneuver.
ED in Clinical Mental Health Counseling; I am a doctoral candidate focusing research on the impact of stress on Black women.
“Fall down seven times and stand up eight." Life can be difficult, but it's important to learn, keep moving forward, and conquer obstacles you may face. Life's journey will contain the unexpected, and therapy provides the navigation system to maneuver.

Dr. Amber Richardson
Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal clients are women and couples. I specialize in working with women who feel they must constantly have it all together. As an expert on the Superwoman schema, I provide a supportive & empowering space to navigate the pressures of strength, self-sacrifice, & high expectations. We will unlearn patterns of over-functioning, manage anxiety/depression, learn appropriate boundaries, and cultivate healthier relationships with yourself and others. My goal is to support you in embracing vulnerability, prioritizing your mental health, and redefining strength on your own terms.
My ideal clients are women and couples. I specialize in working with women who feel they must constantly have it all together. As an expert on the Superwoman schema, I provide a supportive & empowering space to navigate the pressures of strength, self-sacrifice, & high expectations. We will unlearn patterns of over-functioning, manage anxiety/depression, learn appropriate boundaries, and cultivate healthier relationships with yourself and others. My goal is to support you in embracing vulnerability, prioritizing your mental health, and redefining strength on your own terms.

When you wake up in the morning is there an instant dread? Is your relationship becoming more of a place of frustration than a place of togetherness? My primary focuses is working with the LGBTQIA+ community, couples, and individuals experiencing anxiety, depression or post partum depression. My hope is I can walk along side you through this journey together, so that you may discover a life that you never thought was possible before.
When you wake up in the morning is there an instant dread? Is your relationship becoming more of a place of frustration than a place of togetherness? My primary focuses is working with the LGBTQIA+ community, couples, and individuals experiencing anxiety, depression or post partum depression. My hope is I can walk along side you through this journey together, so that you may discover a life that you never thought was possible before.

You find yourself stuck in the same negative cycles. You trust the wrong people and get into relationships that only leave you feeling manipulated, abused, and unsafe. They’ve taken away your power, your voice, and the weight of trauma has left you questioning your worth. You’ve tried reaching out to loved ones, connecting to your faith, and other means to address your concerns, but all those choices have failed. Your needs are not met, and you desperately desire support to make consistent, positive changes to succeed mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.
You find yourself stuck in the same negative cycles. You trust the wrong people and get into relationships that only leave you feeling manipulated, abused, and unsafe. They’ve taken away your power, your voice, and the weight of trauma has left you questioning your worth. You’ve tried reaching out to loved ones, connecting to your faith, and other means to address your concerns, but all those choices have failed. Your needs are not met, and you desperately desire support to make consistent, positive changes to succeed mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.

Jermel Pulliam, LPC and Dr. Clinton Smith are offering a Free Consultation for hypnosis. Clinton Smith, Psy.D has effectively used clinical hypnosis for Weight Loss, Anxiety, Poor Sleep, Depression, and Smoking online since 2007. Register for a Free Screening in the comfort of your home. We will PROVE you can be hypnotized before accepting you as a client. Dr. Smith has combined psychological tools & hypnotherapy since 1992. See M.D. endorsements and a video of Dr. Oz relating facts about Medical hypnosis. Register At: HypnosisByDoctors.com/Register.
Jermel Pulliam, LPC and Dr. Clinton Smith are offering a Free Consultation for hypnosis. Clinton Smith, Psy.D has effectively used clinical hypnosis for Weight Loss, Anxiety, Poor Sleep, Depression, and Smoking online since 2007. Register for a Free Screening in the comfort of your home. We will PROVE you can be hypnotized before accepting you as a client. Dr. Smith has combined psychological tools & hypnotherapy since 1992. See M.D. endorsements and a video of Dr. Oz relating facts about Medical hypnosis. Register At: HypnosisByDoctors.com/Register.

As a LPC with over 17 years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals who have faced various challenges in their lives. My primary areas of expertise include helping clients who have experienced sexual abuse, physical abuse, anxiety, bullying, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and various types of traumas. I firmly believe in the resilience of individuals and their capacity to overcome difficult circumstances with the right guidance and support. My goal is to create a safe and empathetic environment where clients can explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences.
As a LPC with over 17 years of experience, I specialize in helping individuals who have faced various challenges in their lives. My primary areas of expertise include helping clients who have experienced sexual abuse, physical abuse, anxiety, bullying, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and various types of traumas. I firmly believe in the resilience of individuals and their capacity to overcome difficult circumstances with the right guidance and support. My goal is to create a safe and empathetic environment where clients can explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences.

You show up for everyone else—but inside, you’re exhausted, anxious, and disconnected. Maybe you’re smiling on the outside, but struggling to get out of bed, feeling stuck in old pain, or overwhelmed by pressure to keep it all together. You long to feel like you again. My ideal client is ready to stop just going through the motions and start healing. Together, we’ll create space for you to be seen, understood, and supported—so you can show up fully for yourself and build a life that feels real and fulfilling.
You show up for everyone else—but inside, you’re exhausted, anxious, and disconnected. Maybe you’re smiling on the outside, but struggling to get out of bed, feeling stuck in old pain, or overwhelmed by pressure to keep it all together. You long to feel like you again. My ideal client is ready to stop just going through the motions and start healing. Together, we’ll create space for you to be seen, understood, and supported—so you can show up fully for yourself and build a life that feels real and fulfilling.

Teneshia Bryant
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801
Are you not satisfied with your current life? Do you look to others for validation? It is now time to explore who you are, your strengths and skills. We are alive for purpose, to live an abundant life. Humans are all created very uniquely and it is important for every person to embrace their uniqueness and boldly explore opportunities for a satisfying life. Life presents challenges regularly and they can be overcome by having tools in your toolbox. Once equipped with the tools, the success comes when we put them to use.
Are you not satisfied with your current life? Do you look to others for validation? It is now time to explore who you are, your strengths and skills. We are alive for purpose, to live an abundant life. Humans are all created very uniquely and it is important for every person to embrace their uniqueness and boldly explore opportunities for a satisfying life. Life presents challenges regularly and they can be overcome by having tools in your toolbox. Once equipped with the tools, the success comes when we put them to use.

We all have seasons in our lives when we feel stuck and need help to find our way through the tough times. Negative events can cause depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, relationship, and behavioral concerns. I create a safe and comfortable space for my clients to feel heard and understood as they grow towards becoming their authentic selves. Everyone has a purpose and a destiny. Therapy is a collaborative process. My clients and I work together to increase their resilience, recognize their strengths, and improve their sense of well-being in a safe, nurturing, and affirming therapeutic environment.
We all have seasons in our lives when we feel stuck and need help to find our way through the tough times. Negative events can cause depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, relationship, and behavioral concerns. I create a safe and comfortable space for my clients to feel heard and understood as they grow towards becoming their authentic selves. Everyone has a purpose and a destiny. Therapy is a collaborative process. My clients and I work together to increase their resilience, recognize their strengths, and improve their sense of well-being in a safe, nurturing, and affirming therapeutic environment.

My education has taught me to meet my clients where they are. It's your world, and I am here to assist as much as you need me to! In a non-judgmental and confidential atmosphere, your progression is a priority! Working together, we will identify the issues and/or triggers you may be experiencing and how to overcome, work through, and move forward from those stumbling blocks. With a listening ear, I will be there to support and encourage you as necessary. I will also attempt to push you to your fullest potential. Though it may be challenging at times, you can rest assured that I will be along with you on your journey of growth!
My education has taught me to meet my clients where they are. It's your world, and I am here to assist as much as you need me to! In a non-judgmental and confidential atmosphere, your progression is a priority! Working together, we will identify the issues and/or triggers you may be experiencing and how to overcome, work through, and move forward from those stumbling blocks. With a listening ear, I will be there to support and encourage you as necessary. I will also attempt to push you to your fullest potential. Though it may be challenging at times, you can rest assured that I will be along with you on your journey of growth!

Ashley Webb Wiggs-Achieve Wellness Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801
Depression, anxiety, PTSD, frustration, stress, alcohol & drug abuse, legal concerns, mood disorders, personality disorders, relationships distress, all of these and much more can be treated as long as the effort and dedication to want to do and be better is present. I am a LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. Whether you'd like to work on bettering your mental health and/or addressing your substance abuse concerns, together we can develop a plan to aid in your future overall wellness, so you have what you need to succeed.
Depression, anxiety, PTSD, frustration, stress, alcohol & drug abuse, legal concerns, mood disorders, personality disorders, relationships distress, all of these and much more can be treated as long as the effort and dedication to want to do and be better is present. I am a LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. Whether you'd like to work on bettering your mental health and/or addressing your substance abuse concerns, together we can develop a plan to aid in your future overall wellness, so you have what you need to succeed.

Auburn Therapy Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Auburn Therapy Associates is a group of licensed marriage and family therapists and associates providing a wide range of services to Auburn-Opelika (in-person) and the state of Alabama (teletherapy). Our therapists use a variety of techniques, modalities and skills, but most of all we try to be relatable humans, and work hard to make sure you feel comfortable, hopeful, and excited about where therapy is going.
Auburn Therapy Associates is a group of licensed marriage and family therapists and associates providing a wide range of services to Auburn-Opelika (in-person) and the state of Alabama (teletherapy). Our therapists use a variety of techniques, modalities and skills, but most of all we try to be relatable humans, and work hard to make sure you feel comfortable, hopeful, and excited about where therapy is going.

Auburn Marriage and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You or your partner may notice your relationship seems off track. You realize that you feel disconnected and you seem to have the same conflict. Perhaps there has been infidelity or some other trust violation that is overwhelming. Perhaps one person is dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma that isolates you from each other. You may notice that you don’t feel like yourself anymore. You realize that you are easily overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, feel bad about yourself. Perhaps you have experienced a traumatic or stressful event that you haven't been able to "let go”. Perhaps you are grieving the lost of a love one.
You or your partner may notice your relationship seems off track. You realize that you feel disconnected and you seem to have the same conflict. Perhaps there has been infidelity or some other trust violation that is overwhelming. Perhaps one person is dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma that isolates you from each other. You may notice that you don’t feel like yourself anymore. You realize that you are easily overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, feel bad about yourself. Perhaps you have experienced a traumatic or stressful event that you haven't been able to "let go”. Perhaps you are grieving the lost of a love one.

Bre Carr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC, ICADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
We are all unique and so are the struggles we face daily. Being unique is great, yet there comes a time when we are faced with challenges, feeling stuck, frustrated, angry or simply misunderstood. It is during these times that it is beneficial to seek someone outside of that current situation for fresh insight, an objective perspective and a listening, non-judgmental ear. Sometimes an outsider looking in may be exactly what you need in order to identify and develop the best solution to meet your unique and individual needs. Life is full of ups and downs- in therapy we learn how to maneuver through the waves of life.
We are all unique and so are the struggles we face daily. Being unique is great, yet there comes a time when we are faced with challenges, feeling stuck, frustrated, angry or simply misunderstood. It is during these times that it is beneficial to seek someone outside of that current situation for fresh insight, an objective perspective and a listening, non-judgmental ear. Sometimes an outsider looking in may be exactly what you need in order to identify and develop the best solution to meet your unique and individual needs. Life is full of ups and downs- in therapy we learn how to maneuver through the waves of life.
More Therapists Nearby

I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family dynamics, and career challenges, with a particular focus on LGBTQ communities and Black and Indigenous people of color (BIPOC).
My ideal client is someone navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or family dynamics, seeking a culturally competent, affirming space to explore how past experiences shape their present struggles. Their goals are to heal, gain self-understanding, and improve relationships. They want to feel empowered to live authentically, cope with life's challenges, and achieve a sense of peace and fulfillment.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family dynamics, and career challenges, with a particular focus on LGBTQ communities and Black and Indigenous people of color (BIPOC).
My ideal client is someone navigating anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or family dynamics, seeking a culturally competent, affirming space to explore how past experiences shape their present struggles. Their goals are to heal, gain self-understanding, and improve relationships. They want to feel empowered to live authentically, cope with life's challenges, and achieve a sense of peace and fulfillment.

Are you experiencing overwhelming stress, anxiety, or navigating challenging life transitions? Do you find it difficult to manage emotions associated with a chronic illness? You are not alone, and I am here to provide support. I offer therapeutic services for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and self-esteem issues. My areas of expertise include working with college students, veterans, and adults. Whatever your struggles may be, I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental environment that supports personal growth and healing.
Are you experiencing overwhelming stress, anxiety, or navigating challenging life transitions? Do you find it difficult to manage emotions associated with a chronic illness? You are not alone, and I am here to provide support. I offer therapeutic services for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and self-esteem issues. My areas of expertise include working with college students, veterans, and adults. Whatever your struggles may be, I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental environment that supports personal growth and healing.

I provide therapy services to adolescents, adults, families, and groups at Auburn Psychological Wellness Center, in Auburn, AL. It is important that we work together in exploring goals related to challenges being experienced in one’s life. I have a clinical specialty in working with individuals experiencing trauma specifically race-based trauma. Also, I have other general areas of emphasis.
I provide therapy services to adolescents, adults, families, and groups at Auburn Psychological Wellness Center, in Auburn, AL. It is important that we work together in exploring goals related to challenges being experienced in one’s life. I have a clinical specialty in working with individuals experiencing trauma specifically race-based trauma. Also, I have other general areas of emphasis.

Happiness is not an illusion but a reality worth striving for, and with therapy (together) we can find real solutions to change the course of your life. Many times we are displaced by grief, job loss, and relationship stressors, which increases our depression & anxiety. Life is like a roller coaster with ups, downs and wide turns; however, life can be enjoyable with help from a trained therapist. I prefer using different methods that are aimed at addressing a client needs and wants. As a trained, skilled professional, I look forward to helping you address your problems, issues and meeting your goals to improve your mental health.
Happiness is not an illusion but a reality worth striving for, and with therapy (together) we can find real solutions to change the course of your life. Many times we are displaced by grief, job loss, and relationship stressors, which increases our depression & anxiety. Life is like a roller coaster with ups, downs and wide turns; however, life can be enjoyable with help from a trained therapist. I prefer using different methods that are aimed at addressing a client needs and wants. As a trained, skilled professional, I look forward to helping you address your problems, issues and meeting your goals to improve your mental health.

L.I.T. Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phenix City, AL 36870
Are you feeling stressed out, anxious or have an irritable mood that leads to anger? Does it seem like you are stuck, lost or unmotivated? Are you struggling with healing from a traumatic event, even from childhood? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here. I know seeking help can be hard. You’ve likely been debating seeking help for months, if not years, but I’m so glad you have taken the courageous step of being here.
Are you feeling stressed out, anxious or have an irritable mood that leads to anger? Does it seem like you are stuck, lost or unmotivated? Are you struggling with healing from a traumatic event, even from childhood? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here. I know seeking help can be hard. You’ve likely been debating seeking help for months, if not years, but I’m so glad you have taken the courageous step of being here.

Now accepting evening and Saturday clients! I genuinely believe life is a roller coaster—and sometimes, “life be life-ing.” When it does, I’m here to support you. In a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential space, you are the expert of your own experience, and my role is to assist the expert—you. In our therapeutic partnership, we’ll explore your challenges, identify triggers and strengths, and work through barriers. Together, we’ll build practical strategies that help you move forward, grow, and reach your milestones. Life isn’t always easy, but you don’t have to go through it alone. I’m here to walk with you through it.
Now accepting evening and Saturday clients! I genuinely believe life is a roller coaster—and sometimes, “life be life-ing.” When it does, I’m here to support you. In a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential space, you are the expert of your own experience, and my role is to assist the expert—you. In our therapeutic partnership, we’ll explore your challenges, identify triggers and strengths, and work through barriers. Together, we’ll build practical strategies that help you move forward, grow, and reach your milestones. Life isn’t always easy, but you don’t have to go through it alone. I’m here to walk with you through it.
See more therapy options for Opelika
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.