Black and African American Therapists in Elk Grove, CA
I believe healing begins when people feel seen, heard, and empowered to honor themselves without guilt. With over fifteen years of experience supporting individuals, families, and communities, and a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, my work is grounded in compassion, evidence-based practices, and real-life understanding. I support clients in navigating grief, stress, boundaries, emotional regulation, and life transitions by helping them uncover unhelpful belief systems and build healthier, more sustainable patterns. My approach is reflective, strengths-based, and client-centered.
I believe healing begins when people feel seen, heard, and empowered to honor themselves without guilt. With over fifteen years of experience supporting individuals, families, and communities, and a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, my work is grounded in compassion, evidence-based practices, and real-life understanding. I support clients in navigating grief, stress, boundaries, emotional regulation, and life transitions by helping them uncover unhelpful belief systems and build healthier, more sustainable patterns. My approach is reflective, strengths-based, and client-centered.
The way in which a person cultivates their sense of self, self-esteem, and relationships with others, can be extremely important in their path to wellness. My goal is to meet every client where they are in their journey to mental health and wellness, which means we start where you are and not where I think you should be. I believe that everyone has the capacity to become their best selves and that my work is to provide a safe, helpful, and non-judgmental, environment for those who I am working with.
The way in which a person cultivates their sense of self, self-esteem, and relationships with others, can be extremely important in their path to wellness. My goal is to meet every client where they are in their journey to mental health and wellness, which means we start where you are and not where I think you should be. I believe that everyone has the capacity to become their best selves and that my work is to provide a safe, helpful, and non-judgmental, environment for those who I am working with.
Are you suffering from depression and anxiety? Are you attempting to maintain a sense of normalcy while under stress? Are you dealing from trauma from life circumstances that you have not been able to process? I offer treatment to Adults, Couples, and Teens to create an individualized treatment plan based on your needs.
Are you suffering from depression and anxiety? Are you attempting to maintain a sense of normalcy while under stress? Are you dealing from trauma from life circumstances that you have not been able to process? I offer treatment to Adults, Couples, and Teens to create an individualized treatment plan based on your needs.
You made the first step! You have listened to that already wise part of you that knows now is a good time to reach out and be supported in a way that is tailored just for you. Are you finding yourself struggling for emotional wellbeing or balance, are you noticing that you are reacting in ways that aren’t working for you, in life, in relationships, even in the choices you are making? Are you finding yourself wrestling with anxiety, and feeling paralyzed in fear? Are you feeling as if there is no safe corner in your life where you can take in a breath and stop the daily push to produce?
You made the first step! You have listened to that already wise part of you that knows now is a good time to reach out and be supported in a way that is tailored just for you. Are you finding yourself struggling for emotional wellbeing or balance, are you noticing that you are reacting in ways that aren’t working for you, in life, in relationships, even in the choices you are making? Are you finding yourself wrestling with anxiety, and feeling paralyzed in fear? Are you feeling as if there is no safe corner in your life where you can take in a breath and stop the daily push to produce?
I believe we all have different stories to tell, and I value providing a warm and non-judgmental space to listen and provide support and guidance. The most important qualities we desire as humans are to feel heard, valued, and respected. I not only help teach couples and individuals these value, but I practice these values also within my therapy room. My inspiration lies in helping individuals, couples live authentic lives and being able to authentically connect within our relationships. It would be a pleasure to meet you and help you on your journey to healing and self-discovery.
I believe we all have different stories to tell, and I value providing a warm and non-judgmental space to listen and provide support and guidance. The most important qualities we desire as humans are to feel heard, valued, and respected. I not only help teach couples and individuals these value, but I practice these values also within my therapy room. My inspiration lies in helping individuals, couples live authentic lives and being able to authentically connect within our relationships. It would be a pleasure to meet you and help you on your journey to healing and self-discovery.
Imagine being as kind and reliable to yourself as you are to everyone else. If you are exhausted from overthinking, taking on too much at work or home, and feeling like you're carrying the mental load for everyone around you, we can work on changing that.
My sessions are practical and down-to-earth. I won't just sit back and nod. We'll look at the everyday habits (like perfectionism, over-committing, and struggling to delegate) that leave you feeling drained, and focus on practical steps to regain your time and head space.
Imagine being as kind and reliable to yourself as you are to everyone else. If you are exhausted from overthinking, taking on too much at work or home, and feeling like you're carrying the mental load for everyone around you, we can work on changing that.
My sessions are practical and down-to-earth. I won't just sit back and nod. We'll look at the everyday habits (like perfectionism, over-committing, and struggling to delegate) that leave you feeling drained, and focus on practical steps to regain your time and head space.
A Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 8 years of experience in child welfare, specializing in trauma-informed care and psychoanalytic approaches to mental health. As a U.S. Air Force veteran, I bring discipline, resilience, and a mission-driven mindset to my work in supporting vulnerable populations.
Holding a Ph.D. in Clinical Social Work, I combine advanced clinical expertise with a deep understanding of psychoanalysis to provide comprehensive assessments and interventions. My passion lies in advocating for children, Veterans and families, promoting mental wellness, and empowering individuals to overcome adversity.
A Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 8 years of experience in child welfare, specializing in trauma-informed care and psychoanalytic approaches to mental health. As a U.S. Air Force veteran, I bring discipline, resilience, and a mission-driven mindset to my work in supporting vulnerable populations.
Holding a Ph.D. in Clinical Social Work, I combine advanced clinical expertise with a deep understanding of psychoanalysis to provide comprehensive assessments and interventions. My passion lies in advocating for children, Veterans and families, promoting mental wellness, and empowering individuals to overcome adversity.
I am a veteran of the United States Air Force, having proudly served for 16 years. Over the years, I have earned a license as a Clinical Social Worker and hold a PhD in the same field. My professional journey has taken me through various roles, including working with Child Protective Services for Sacramento County and providing support through the Department of Veterans Affairs. My experiences have deepened my commitment to serving others and have equipped me with a diverse skill set in clinical practice and social work.
I am a veteran of the United States Air Force, having proudly served for 16 years. Over the years, I have earned a license as a Clinical Social Worker and hold a PhD in the same field. My professional journey has taken me through various roles, including working with Child Protective Services for Sacramento County and providing support through the Department of Veterans Affairs. My experiences have deepened my commitment to serving others and have equipped me with a diverse skill set in clinical practice and social work.
Dr. Dafna with Mindsets Empowerment Institute
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m Dr. Dafna Gauthier, a licensed psychotherapist dedicated to helping individuals heal from childhood experiences, relationship challenges, emotional wounds, and patterns that no longer serve them. My approach is compassionate, empowering, and focused on helping clients better understand themselves while creating meaningful and lasting change. I integrate therapeutic modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Brainspotting, mindfulness, and trauma-informed approaches to help clients process unresolved emotions, build emotional resilience, and reconnect with their authentic selves.
I’m Dr. Dafna Gauthier, a licensed psychotherapist dedicated to helping individuals heal from childhood experiences, relationship challenges, emotional wounds, and patterns that no longer serve them. My approach is compassionate, empowering, and focused on helping clients better understand themselves while creating meaningful and lasting change. I integrate therapeutic modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Brainspotting, mindfulness, and trauma-informed approaches to help clients process unresolved emotions, build emotional resilience, and reconnect with their authentic selves.
Welcome to my site, and good job on taking a pivotal step towards healing in your therapy journey. I provide clinical supervision, as well as couples, individual, and family therapy. I work with adolescents, adults, and parents of all cultural backgrounds. I believe when we work together in therapy, it creates effective change. I am a strength-based, solution-focused therapist. I provide a safe space to feel comfortable when sharing your true thoughts, feelings, and opinions; as my goals are to help each person share their story, have a voice without judgment. Let's consult soon. Visit my website to schedule a free consultation.
Welcome to my site, and good job on taking a pivotal step towards healing in your therapy journey. I provide clinical supervision, as well as couples, individual, and family therapy. I work with adolescents, adults, and parents of all cultural backgrounds. I believe when we work together in therapy, it creates effective change. I am a strength-based, solution-focused therapist. I provide a safe space to feel comfortable when sharing your true thoughts, feelings, and opinions; as my goals are to help each person share their story, have a voice without judgment. Let's consult soon. Visit my website to schedule a free consultation.
You are doing what you need to do but still feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or constantly overthinking, mildly depressed and not yourself? You may appear to have everything together on the outside, but inside feel anxious, stressed, or unsure about your next steps. You are someone ready for change and personal growth, even if the path forward feels unclear. Many of the people I work with struggle with anxiety, self-doubt, or major life transitions. You want more confidence, emotional balance, and a clearer direction in life, and they’re ready to explore patterns, put in the work to gain insight, and develop healthier ways of coping.
You are doing what you need to do but still feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or constantly overthinking, mildly depressed and not yourself? You may appear to have everything together on the outside, but inside feel anxious, stressed, or unsure about your next steps. You are someone ready for change and personal growth, even if the path forward feels unclear. Many of the people I work with struggle with anxiety, self-doubt, or major life transitions. You want more confidence, emotional balance, and a clearer direction in life, and they’re ready to explore patterns, put in the work to gain insight, and develop healthier ways of coping.
Are you worried, frustrated, or just plain disappointed with certain situations in your life? Perhaps your issues are current, or maybe they have been resurfacing, with no resolution. Seeking help is a big step, but it's a step in the right direction. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and depression. My clients learn to consider all aspects of their functioning as human beings (biological, psychological, spiritual, etc.). I will assist you with developing a plan for working through the past or current situations that are hindering your progress in life, so that you can begin to function more effectively, and thrive.
Are you worried, frustrated, or just plain disappointed with certain situations in your life? Perhaps your issues are current, or maybe they have been resurfacing, with no resolution. Seeking help is a big step, but it's a step in the right direction. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and depression. My clients learn to consider all aspects of their functioning as human beings (biological, psychological, spiritual, etc.). I will assist you with developing a plan for working through the past or current situations that are hindering your progress in life, so that you can begin to function more effectively, and thrive.
Click "My Website" To Schedule A Session Or Consultation!
I am a trauma-informed Mindfulness therapist who believes that a balanced mindset will help to empower, uplift clarity, and motivate success and happiness. I have experience working with adolescents and young adults from communities of color with complex life issues. I also happily welcome partnerships with adults who want to build well-being practices. I am happy to support couples with premarital, open, LGBTQ, and polyamorous agreements. For couples and families, I host collaborations that cultivate insight, develop open-hearted dialogue, and increase relational harmony.
Click "My Website" To Schedule A Session Or Consultation!
I am a trauma-informed Mindfulness therapist who believes that a balanced mindset will help to empower, uplift clarity, and motivate success and happiness. I have experience working with adolescents and young adults from communities of color with complex life issues. I also happily welcome partnerships with adults who want to build well-being practices. I am happy to support couples with premarital, open, LGBTQ, and polyamorous agreements. For couples and families, I host collaborations that cultivate insight, develop open-hearted dialogue, and increase relational harmony.
Life is expected to have moments of triumphs and disappointments this is unavoidable. The therapeutic relationship that I hope to bring to our sessions is one of compassion, understanding, empathy, and openness to differences without judgment. It is my belief that everyone on this planet strives to have a life that is satisfactory to them and their experiences. There is a time to be serious and a time to relax and laugh a little. My hope is to normalize your human experience and help you realize your own strengths and potentials.
Life is expected to have moments of triumphs and disappointments this is unavoidable. The therapeutic relationship that I hope to bring to our sessions is one of compassion, understanding, empathy, and openness to differences without judgment. It is my belief that everyone on this planet strives to have a life that is satisfactory to them and their experiences. There is a time to be serious and a time to relax and laugh a little. My hope is to normalize your human experience and help you realize your own strengths and potentials.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults and young adults, with a particular focus on supporting women as they navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, maternal mental health concerns, parenting stress, postpartum mood changes, caregiver strain, phase-of-life transitions, work–life balance, and overall stress management.
I believe therapy works best when it is collaborative, supportive, and grounded in trust. I work alongside my clients to unpack what has brought them to this point, cultivate self regard and develop the tools to care for themselves on a daily basis.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults and young adults, with a particular focus on supporting women as they navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, maternal mental health concerns, parenting stress, postpartum mood changes, caregiver strain, phase-of-life transitions, work–life balance, and overall stress management.
I believe therapy works best when it is collaborative, supportive, and grounded in trust. I work alongside my clients to unpack what has brought them to this point, cultivate self regard and develop the tools to care for themselves on a daily basis.
My passion is in helping you to grow in loving yourself and loving others. I specialize in strengthening relationships. Have you been feeling unheard or underappreciated? Has there been some type of betrayal or broken trust? Is your relationship feeling extra stress during this pandemic? Are you unsure if your relationship will last? Do you and your partner(s) want to strengthen your foundation before taking the next step?
My passion is in helping you to grow in loving yourself and loving others. I specialize in strengthening relationships. Have you been feeling unheard or underappreciated? Has there been some type of betrayal or broken trust? Is your relationship feeling extra stress during this pandemic? Are you unsure if your relationship will last? Do you and your partner(s) want to strengthen your foundation before taking the next step?
Hello. My name is Deon Whiteside. I am a Licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Oklahoma. I work with adult clients statewide via telehealth who are dealing with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and relationship issues. I am committed to supporting my clients through their challenges and helping them improve their emotional well-being and find joy and purpose in their lives.
Hello. My name is Deon Whiteside. I am a Licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Oklahoma. I work with adult clients statewide via telehealth who are dealing with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and relationship issues. I am committed to supporting my clients through their challenges and helping them improve their emotional well-being and find joy and purpose in their lives.
When the world feels loud, step into a virtual room made just for you. I support individuals and teens who are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward.
When the world feels loud, step into a virtual room made just for you. I support individuals and teens who are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward.
Are you struggling with your mental health, or is your life just simply overwhelming at times? I can help you identify the patterns in your life that are limiting you and guide you toward developing better-coping skills to find healing and live the life you want to live. My focus is to empower you to be the very best “You” that you can be. Whether you are struggling with substance use, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship issues, or trauma, I am here to help you through it. I want to help you achieve your goals through a positive therapeutic relationship that creates long-lasting results in your recovery.
Are you struggling with your mental health, or is your life just simply overwhelming at times? I can help you identify the patterns in your life that are limiting you and guide you toward developing better-coping skills to find healing and live the life you want to live. My focus is to empower you to be the very best “You” that you can be. Whether you are struggling with substance use, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship issues, or trauma, I am here to help you through it. I want to help you achieve your goals through a positive therapeutic relationship that creates long-lasting results in your recovery.
Hello, my name is Ameshia Arthur. I am training in many evidenced-based modalities so I can respond to the needs and personalities of the client. I am a trauma-informed therapist who utilizes many modalities depending on the person and concern. Those modalities include CBT, DBT, Narrative, Solution Focused, EFT, and others. I am looking to work with adults adjusting to significant life transitions. Also, adults dealing with depression or anxiety.
Hello, my name is Ameshia Arthur. I am training in many evidenced-based modalities so I can respond to the needs and personalities of the client. I am a trauma-informed therapist who utilizes many modalities depending on the person and concern. Those modalities include CBT, DBT, Narrative, Solution Focused, EFT, and others. I am looking to work with adults adjusting to significant life transitions. Also, adults dealing with depression or anxiety.
See more therapy options for Elk Grove
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Elk Grove
- Carmichael
- Citrus Heights
- Davis
- Fair Oaks
- Folsom
- Gold River
- Lodi
- Rancho Cordova
- Roseville
- Sacramento
- Stockton
- West Sacramento
FAQ - Black and African American Counselling
As an African American, why might I wish to see a therapist who is African American?
Working with an African American therapist can often mean that you start from a place of shared understanding with a therapist rather than having to explain your experience from scratch. A therapist who shares your racial identity is more likely to understand the specific pressures shaping your mental health, including navigating racism, cultural identity, and the overall experience of being Black in the United States. They are also more likely to understand the role that family, community, and cultural expectations play in your life without requiring a lengthy explanation. This shared foundation can create a greater sense of safety in the therapeutic relationship and make it easier to open up at the start of therapy.
Are there Black therapists who specialize in working with Black men or Black women?
Yes, many Black therapists have specific experience working with Black men or Black women. While therapists who work with Black clients broadly address concerns relevant to all genders, like anxiety or depression, those with a gender-specific focus are equipped to work with you on the particular ways that race and gender may intersect. For example, some therapists may specialize in working with Black women on topics like body image or maternal mental health, while other therapists may work with Black men on topics such as relationships or masculinity.
Do Black therapists offer marriage and couples counseling?
Yes, many Black therapists are trained in couples and marriage counseling and can work with partners navigating a wide range of relationship challenges. Therapists who identify as Black may have a better understanding of the cultural dynamics surrounding marriage, family roles, and conflict that are specific to African American communities and can work with you and your partner without making assumptions about your background.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with Black clients?
The initial consultation, which is typically a brief phone or video call, is the right time to raise a therapist’s experience working with Black clients. You can ask specific questions, such as "Do you have experience working with Black clients?" or more broad questions, such as "How do you approach cultural identity in your practice?". During the initial consultation, you can also ask whether they have undertaken training in cultural competence and how they would handle a situation where a cultural misunderstanding arose in therapy. A therapist who responds to these questions thoughtfully and without defensiveness is a good sign they are equipped to work with you effectively.
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.