Black and African American Therapists in La Jolla, CA

Photo of Jessica Flowers-Guerrero, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jessica Flowers-Guerrero
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I became licensed in May 2020 and have worked in a handful of outpatient and hospital settings within my community since 2013, specializing in helping individuals and families navigate issues such as depression, anxiety, anger, perinatal mood disorders, substance use, behavioral issues, parenting issues, women's issues, and trauma. I use a collaborative approach with my clients while providing a warm and nurturing space for healing and growth to take place. I cater to my clients' individual needs and often employ various evidence-based treatment strategies that can be helpful for authentic, sustainable, and positive change.
I became licensed in May 2020 and have worked in a handful of outpatient and hospital settings within my community since 2013, specializing in helping individuals and families navigate issues such as depression, anxiety, anger, perinatal mood disorders, substance use, behavioral issues, parenting issues, women's issues, and trauma. I use a collaborative approach with my clients while providing a warm and nurturing space for healing and growth to take place. I cater to my clients' individual needs and often employ various evidence-based treatment strategies that can be helpful for authentic, sustainable, and positive change.
(310) 651-7795 View (310) 651-7795
Photo of Shelli Bailey, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Shelli Bailey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I have years of experience working with adults who struggle with depression, substance abuse issues, dual diagnosis, anxiety, trauma, relational problems and life transition issues. In regards to my style, obtaining a good rapport is key. I seek to meet my clients where they're at, yet challenge them to reach their own treatment goals. I assign therapy homework such as listening to podcast, journaling, self care, practicing skills learned in session in order to help them on their journey.
I have years of experience working with adults who struggle with depression, substance abuse issues, dual diagnosis, anxiety, trauma, relational problems and life transition issues. In regards to my style, obtaining a good rapport is key. I seek to meet my clients where they're at, yet challenge them to reach their own treatment goals. I assign therapy homework such as listening to podcast, journaling, self care, practicing skills learned in session in order to help them on their journey.
(424) 544-2274 View (424) 544-2274
Photo of Tracy Keene, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Tracy Keene
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Online Only
I have worked in the mental health industry for 20-plus years. I use several therapeutic approaches that allow myself and my clients, to get to the bottom of their challenges and find their best self. My main goal is for the client to see how amazing they are and to not live or see life through a critical, distorted lens. Life can be a challenge, but you are worth the work.
I have worked in the mental health industry for 20-plus years. I use several therapeutic approaches that allow myself and my clients, to get to the bottom of their challenges and find their best self. My main goal is for the client to see how amazing they are and to not live or see life through a critical, distorted lens. Life can be a challenge, but you are worth the work.
(510) 892-4293 View (510) 892-4293
Photo of Angela Bowser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Angela Bowser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can show up as yourself. Together, we’ll explore your emotions, uncover your strengths, and work toward the changes you want to see in your life. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and I truly admire your courage in beginning this journey. I tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals. I often use Cognitive-Behavioral techniques to help shift unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors, and Somatic practices to reconnect mind and body, helping you feel calmer and more balanced.
My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can show up as yourself. Together, we’ll explore your emotions, uncover your strengths, and work toward the changes you want to see in your life. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and I truly admire your courage in beginning this journey. I tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals. I often use Cognitive-Behavioral techniques to help shift unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors, and Somatic practices to reconnect mind and body, helping you feel calmer and more balanced.
(341) 244-5434 View (341) 244-5434
Photo of Tammi Collins, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Tammi Collins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I believe the relationship between client and therapist is extremely important therefore I hope to foster the healing process by providing an authentic safe, caring, secure, and non-judgmental atmosphere where you can feel heard. Therefore, my main goal is to focus on the client and meet them where they are now. While empowering clients to recognize the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I take a compassionate and collaborative approach to helping clients on their journeys toward healing and happiness.
I believe the relationship between client and therapist is extremely important therefore I hope to foster the healing process by providing an authentic safe, caring, secure, and non-judgmental atmosphere where you can feel heard. Therefore, my main goal is to focus on the client and meet them where they are now. While empowering clients to recognize the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I take a compassionate and collaborative approach to helping clients on their journeys toward healing and happiness.
(818) 875-9536 View (818) 875-9536
Photo of Amarri Simms, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Amarri Simms
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Everyday, in every way, we have the ability to get better and better, and I would be honored to support you in your journey. I have a passion and purpose to be of meaningful service to others. I combine my education, professional and real world experience to provide gentle, honest, and insightful care within a compassionate, client centered, spiritual approach.
Everyday, in every way, we have the ability to get better and better, and I would be honored to support you in your journey. I have a passion and purpose to be of meaningful service to others. I combine my education, professional and real world experience to provide gentle, honest, and insightful care within a compassionate, client centered, spiritual approach.
(650) 613-4813 View (650) 613-4813
Photo of Nashira Funn Kayode, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Nashira Funn Kayode
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I help my clients promote and accept that feeling of otherness through the therapeutic process. I think we all have moments where we feel like we don't fit in. I decided to embrace that feeling. After all, that has to be what makes us each unique. The principles of authenticity, self-love, self-care, self-acceptance, believing in oneself, operating from a place of integrity, and self-determination are important factors in healing and wellness.
I help my clients promote and accept that feeling of otherness through the therapeutic process. I think we all have moments where we feel like we don't fit in. I decided to embrace that feeling. After all, that has to be what makes us each unique. The principles of authenticity, self-love, self-care, self-acceptance, believing in oneself, operating from a place of integrity, and self-determination are important factors in healing and wellness.
(415) 449-4838 View (415) 449-4838
Photo of Joe Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Joe Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
With 15 years of experience as a marriage and family therapist, I’ve worked with hundreds of men, women, and children in the California area to address issues such as trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, irritability, and stress. I incorporate a collaborative approach that combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused, client-centered, and Dialectical modalities. I meet my clients where they are and tailor treatment to meet each client’s individual and unique needs.
With 15 years of experience as a marriage and family therapist, I’ve worked with hundreds of men, women, and children in the California area to address issues such as trauma, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, irritability, and stress. I incorporate a collaborative approach that combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused, client-centered, and Dialectical modalities. I meet my clients where they are and tailor treatment to meet each client’s individual and unique needs.
(858) 758-2812 View (858) 758-2812
Photo of Josie Myles, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Josie Myles
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I offer virtual therapy, working with individuals, couples, and families with issues related to sexual addiction, intimacy, anxiety, depression, betrayal, and sexual trauma. I also have a background and passion for working with adolescents with histories of involvement in the criminal justice system. I believe in setting goals with my clients as a guide for where we are headed. I use Solution-focused, person-centered therapy techniques to explore one's past and how it affects the now.
I offer virtual therapy, working with individuals, couples, and families with issues related to sexual addiction, intimacy, anxiety, depression, betrayal, and sexual trauma. I also have a background and passion for working with adolescents with histories of involvement in the criminal justice system. I believe in setting goals with my clients as a guide for where we are headed. I use Solution-focused, person-centered therapy techniques to explore one's past and how it affects the now.
(858) 786-0059 View (858) 786-0059
Photo of Hayden Hamilton - Hayden Hamilton, MD, Sealevel Pllc, MD, MA, LMHCA
Hayden Hamilton, MD, Sealevel Pllc
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
Recent Presentations: Healing for Black Community -King County Library system, The Impact of Creativity on Belief, Emotions and Stress in the Context of the Death of George Floyd, The Seven Principles of Making Marriage Work Couples Program
I work with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, issues of personal identity (race/gender/sexuality orientation), and life transitions (relational/ academic/professional). Navigating into the depths of who we are reveals we are so much more than what we sense at the surface. Having support on our journey can allow us to develop tolerance for our full range of emotions, gain awareness of what we feel in our bodies, discover new insights into past events, expand our ability to discuss fears, increase empathy for ourselves, experience more meaningful relationships.
Recent Presentations: Healing for Black Community -King County Library system, The Impact of Creativity on Belief, Emotions and Stress in the Context of the Death of George Floyd, The Seven Principles of Making Marriage Work Couples Program
I work with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, issues of personal identity (race/gender/sexuality orientation), and life transitions (relational/ academic/professional). Navigating into the depths of who we are reveals we are so much more than what we sense at the surface. Having support on our journey can allow us to develop tolerance for our full range of emotions, gain awareness of what we feel in our bodies, discover new insights into past events, expand our ability to discuss fears, increase empathy for ourselves, experience more meaningful relationships.
(206) 737-1027 View (206) 737-1027
Photo of William J. Holloway, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
William J. Holloway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Hello, I hope you're doing okay. I'm working through the holidays and have Saturday availability. I support individuals facing illness, divorce, trauma, depression, anxiety, low confidence, career challenges, or a loss of purpose. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), integrating mindfulness and compassion-based approaches. For couples, I offer Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help deepen connection and heal emotional bonds. If you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed, you're not alone—I'd be honored to support you.
Hello, I hope you're doing okay. I'm working through the holidays and have Saturday availability. I support individuals facing illness, divorce, trauma, depression, anxiety, low confidence, career challenges, or a loss of purpose. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), integrating mindfulness and compassion-based approaches. For couples, I offer Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help deepen connection and heal emotional bonds. If you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed, you're not alone—I'd be honored to support you.
(858) 780-5336 View (858) 780-5336
Photo of Asha Wilburn, Counselor, LPCC
Asha Wilburn
Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
Hello! My name is Asha Wilburn and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I believe in a collaborative client-centered approach to therapy to allow clients to have an active role in the therapeutic journey.
Hello! My name is Asha Wilburn and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I believe in a collaborative client-centered approach to therapy to allow clients to have an active role in the therapeutic journey.
(562) 268-4527 View (562) 268-4527
Photo of Darlene R Townes - Dr. Darlene Townes, PsyD - The Fountain, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Darlene Townes, PsyD - The Fountain
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
I am a Multicultural therapist who believes you are not simply Black, White or Other, but the product of DNA, nurture and environment.
Attention: NEW Time! It starts as soon as we reach capacity. Do you struggle with negative thoughts affecting your identity, mood or behaviors? Have you been diagnosed with a chronic mental illness? Do you feel stuck in your life due to emotional or physical pain from relationships, traumatic events or marginalization? Do you long for a safe person to process these events or unspoken secrets too unbearable to speak out-loud? Maybe you are having problems in your relationships, communication, or too many non-negotiable areas. Well, you are not alone.
I am a Multicultural therapist who believes you are not simply Black, White or Other, but the product of DNA, nurture and environment.
Attention: NEW Time! It starts as soon as we reach capacity. Do you struggle with negative thoughts affecting your identity, mood or behaviors? Have you been diagnosed with a chronic mental illness? Do you feel stuck in your life due to emotional or physical pain from relationships, traumatic events or marginalization? Do you long for a safe person to process these events or unspoken secrets too unbearable to speak out-loud? Maybe you are having problems in your relationships, communication, or too many non-negotiable areas. Well, you are not alone.
(858) 264-0511 View (858) 264-0511
Photo of Kendra Hadley, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Kendra Hadley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Online Only
Hi there! My name is Kendra and I am a trauma-focused licensed clinical therapist and a masters addictions counselor in the state of California. I am a native of Chicago, IL and relocated to the west coast in 2009 to embark on my personal road to recovery. In the past twelve years, I have worked exclusively in the field of behavioral health in various professional capacities, i.e. program director and house manager of a psychiatric hospital and three sober living homes, respectively.
Hi there! My name is Kendra and I am a trauma-focused licensed clinical therapist and a masters addictions counselor in the state of California. I am a native of Chicago, IL and relocated to the west coast in 2009 to embark on my personal road to recovery. In the past twelve years, I have worked exclusively in the field of behavioral health in various professional capacities, i.e. program director and house manager of a psychiatric hospital and three sober living homes, respectively.
(909) 265-7359 View (909) 265-7359
Photo of Dr. Tahirih Moffett, Psychologist, PsyD, MSSW, BSN
Dr. Tahirih Moffett
Psychologist, PsyD, MSSW, BSN
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Let’s say it...life can be hard! It takes courage to ask for help and I’m here to help you develop greater self-understanding and to cope with your concerns better. Family and relationship problems, microaggressions/discriminations, financial stress, work and academic demands can sometimes feel overwhelming. Unmanaged self-critical thoughts and rejection of our natural emotions make it worse and can lead to depression and excess anxiety. You may find that the coping strategies you’ve used in the past are no longer working for you. Well, I am here to help support your journey towards building the sort of life you want.
Let’s say it...life can be hard! It takes courage to ask for help and I’m here to help you develop greater self-understanding and to cope with your concerns better. Family and relationship problems, microaggressions/discriminations, financial stress, work and academic demands can sometimes feel overwhelming. Unmanaged self-critical thoughts and rejection of our natural emotions make it worse and can lead to depression and excess anxiety. You may find that the coping strategies you’ve used in the past are no longer working for you. Well, I am here to help support your journey towards building the sort of life you want.
(619) 489-1534 View (619) 489-1534
Photo of Shanekwa Pruitt, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Shanekwa Pruitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Looking for a refuge from loss? Struggling to manage anxiety and sadness? Can't seem to deal with Trauma or a recent life change? Need to find a safe space to feel seen, heard, understood, and empowered. I'm excited to be of service.
Looking for a refuge from loss? Struggling to manage anxiety and sadness? Can't seem to deal with Trauma or a recent life change? Need to find a safe space to feel seen, heard, understood, and empowered. I'm excited to be of service.
(510) 567-7296 View (510) 567-7296
Photo of Ola Adeniranye, Psychologist, PsyD
Ola Adeniranye
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Dr. Adeniranye is a dually licensed clinical psychologist. Using a combination of DBT, postmodern, and psychodynamic approaches, Dr. Adeniranye tailors treatment specific to the needs of his clients. Dr. Adeniranye works with adult clients 18 and over in search of individual sessions. Drawing from diverse, culturally informed methods, Dr. Adeniranye helps clients navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and resilience. As a former U.S. Marine, he has firsthand experience with the profound effects of trauma on veterans and their families.
Dr. Adeniranye is a dually licensed clinical psychologist. Using a combination of DBT, postmodern, and psychodynamic approaches, Dr. Adeniranye tailors treatment specific to the needs of his clients. Dr. Adeniranye works with adult clients 18 and over in search of individual sessions. Drawing from diverse, culturally informed methods, Dr. Adeniranye helps clients navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and resilience. As a former U.S. Marine, he has firsthand experience with the profound effects of trauma on veterans and their families.
(619) 514-3320 View (619) 514-3320
Photo of Vivian A Singleton, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Vivian A Singleton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Accepting new clients: Working toward change isn't always easy. Sometimes what needs to change isn't always obvious. If you're feeling stuck, alone, empty, struggling with change, dealing with overwhelming stressors, addictive behaviors OR if you're in a relationship with high conflict and stress and want to get along better, let's explore tools that will put you on a path toward clarity and a life worth living.
Accepting new clients: Working toward change isn't always easy. Sometimes what needs to change isn't always obvious. If you're feeling stuck, alone, empty, struggling with change, dealing with overwhelming stressors, addictive behaviors OR if you're in a relationship with high conflict and stress and want to get along better, let's explore tools that will put you on a path toward clarity and a life worth living.
(510) 422-0849 View (510) 422-0849
Photo of Francis Paolo De Castro, Psychologist, MS, LEP, PPS
Francis Paolo De Castro
Psychologist, MS, LEP, PPS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Educational Psychologist and have been in practice for over 18 years. I specialize in diagnosis of disorders that impact learning such as Dyslexia ADHD, Auditory and Visual Processing Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Dysgraphia, and social/emotional difficulties (Anxiety, Self-Esteem). If your or your child is frustrated, has difficulty following directions, or has challenges with peers it may be due to an underlying issue and I will work to shed light on and resolve those issues. Through assessment you or your child can be relieved of frustrations and find success at school or in the workplace.
I am a Licensed Educational Psychologist and have been in practice for over 18 years. I specialize in diagnosis of disorders that impact learning such as Dyslexia ADHD, Auditory and Visual Processing Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Dysgraphia, and social/emotional difficulties (Anxiety, Self-Esteem). If your or your child is frustrated, has difficulty following directions, or has challenges with peers it may be due to an underlying issue and I will work to shed light on and resolve those issues. Through assessment you or your child can be relieved of frustrations and find success at school or in the workplace.
(760) 377-1381 View (760) 377-1381
Photo of Dr. Nicole Hayes, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Nicole Hayes
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Los Angeles, CA. I specialize in helping people live more present and successful lives and heal from depression, anxiety, body image concerns, self-esteem issues and much more. I also have extensive experience working with adolescents and young adults as they navigate transition periods in life. I also offer ADHD testing to kids (8+), teens, and adults. If you've been curious about an ADHD diagnosis, reach out to me!
I am a licensed clinical psychologist based in Los Angeles, CA. I specialize in helping people live more present and successful lives and heal from depression, anxiety, body image concerns, self-esteem issues and much more. I also have extensive experience working with adolescents and young adults as they navigate transition periods in life. I also offer ADHD testing to kids (8+), teens, and adults. If you've been curious about an ADHD diagnosis, reach out to me!
(310) 620-1172 View (310) 620-1172

See more therapy options for La Jolla

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.