Black and African American Therapists in Oakland, CA
I am a Black Queer Polyamorous Mama.
The transitions in relationships when inviting new life in is a passion I have been called upon to answer. For Pregnant and Postpartum Women, that is such a special and precious time that can also uproot your mind, body, and spirit. Support is necessary to find your balance again and I can help guide you through your journey of Motherhood. For the Polyamorous and Ethically Nonmonogamous community, I can offer you a safe space to navigate the challenges of connecting with multiple people as well as insight into the culture and community.
I am a Black Queer Polyamorous Mama.
The transitions in relationships when inviting new life in is a passion I have been called upon to answer. For Pregnant and Postpartum Women, that is such a special and precious time that can also uproot your mind, body, and spirit. Support is necessary to find your balance again and I can help guide you through your journey of Motherhood. For the Polyamorous and Ethically Nonmonogamous community, I can offer you a safe space to navigate the challenges of connecting with multiple people as well as insight into the culture and community.
Tai, the founder of The Black Girl Doctor, a completely virtual therapy practice specializing in the mental health of professional Black women.
What I know to be true, is that even those of us who seem to have it all together on the outside, often struggle on the inside. Being successful does not shield you from emotional pain and sometimes it complicates it. I guide clients through their pain and into a space where they can experience joy daily despite living in a world that tries to steal it.
Tai, the founder of The Black Girl Doctor, a completely virtual therapy practice specializing in the mental health of professional Black women.
What I know to be true, is that even those of us who seem to have it all together on the outside, often struggle on the inside. Being successful does not shield you from emotional pain and sometimes it complicates it. I guide clients through their pain and into a space where they can experience joy daily despite living in a world that tries to steal it.
Jasmin Canfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC-CA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Emotions suck, but if we continue to avoid them we will likely remain stuck in what may feel something like swimming in quicksand. Many of my clients come to me when they are tired of the cycle of feeling overwhelmed, depressed, hopeless, hurt, or filled with shame, and guilt. I want to assist you in utilizing the tools to make emotions more manageable. Through unconditional positive regard, self-compassion, and humor you will regain the life that you deserve.
Emotions suck, but if we continue to avoid them we will likely remain stuck in what may feel something like swimming in quicksand. Many of my clients come to me when they are tired of the cycle of feeling overwhelmed, depressed, hopeless, hurt, or filled with shame, and guilt. I want to assist you in utilizing the tools to make emotions more manageable. Through unconditional positive regard, self-compassion, and humor you will regain the life that you deserve.
I am seeking to support clients being seen in a world that does not always validate one's existence. I hope to be a helpful guide in the journey of life to help clients notice the innate wisdom that already exists within themselves.
I am seeking to support clients being seen in a world that does not always validate one's existence. I hope to be a helpful guide in the journey of life to help clients notice the innate wisdom that already exists within themselves.
Welcome! I'm a Bay Area native and I work with adults, couples, and families who are navigating the lasting effects of trauma, chronic stress, and depression. Whether you are coping with loss, relationship challenges, emotional neglect, abuse, or systemic stress, you do not have to navigate healing alone.
I strive to create a compassionate, supportive space where clients can build autonomy, strengthen coping skills, and develop emotional resilience. My goal is to help individuals, couples, and/or families better understand how chronic stress impacts emotional well-being and to develop the skills to create meaningful, lasting change.
Welcome! I'm a Bay Area native and I work with adults, couples, and families who are navigating the lasting effects of trauma, chronic stress, and depression. Whether you are coping with loss, relationship challenges, emotional neglect, abuse, or systemic stress, you do not have to navigate healing alone.
I strive to create a compassionate, supportive space where clients can build autonomy, strengthen coping skills, and develop emotional resilience. My goal is to help individuals, couples, and/or families better understand how chronic stress impacts emotional well-being and to develop the skills to create meaningful, lasting change.
ADHD · Addiction · Adolescents/Teens · Aging · Alcohol Use · Anger Management · Anxiety · Behavioral Issues · Bipolar Disorder · Borderline Personality · Career Counseling · Child Abuse or Neglect · Children · Chronic Impulsivity · Chronic Relapse · Codependency · Coping Skills · Cultural Stress · Depression · Dissociative Disorders · Divorce · Domestic Violence · Drug Abuse · Dual Diagnosis · Eating Disorders · Emotional Disturbance · Family Conflict · Gambling · Grief · Hoarding · Impulse Control Disorders · Impulsivity · Infidelity · Internet Addiction · Job Stress · Learning Disabilities · Legal Stress · Life Coaching · Life Tra
ADHD · Addiction · Adolescents/Teens · Aging · Alcohol Use · Anger Management · Anxiety · Behavioral Issues · Bipolar Disorder · Borderline Personality · Career Counseling · Child Abuse or Neglect · Children · Chronic Impulsivity · Chronic Relapse · Codependency · Coping Skills · Cultural Stress · Depression · Dissociative Disorders · Divorce · Domestic Violence · Drug Abuse · Dual Diagnosis · Eating Disorders · Emotional Disturbance · Family Conflict · Gambling · Grief · Hoarding · Impulse Control Disorders · Impulsivity · Infidelity · Internet Addiction · Job Stress · Learning Disabilities · Legal Stress · Life Coaching · Life Tra
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with many years of experience working with children, adolescents, and their families, as well as adults. My interventions are heavily rooted in behavioral therapy and evidence-based practices including feminist and attachment theories. However, I tend to conceptualize clinical presentations from a multicultural and social justice perspective. While I employ empirically validated treatments to ignite change, I am also of the belief that there is no single story to any individual. Consequently, it is important to understand the social, cultural, political, and spiritual context of each individual.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with many years of experience working with children, adolescents, and their families, as well as adults. My interventions are heavily rooted in behavioral therapy and evidence-based practices including feminist and attachment theories. However, I tend to conceptualize clinical presentations from a multicultural and social justice perspective. While I employ empirically validated treatments to ignite change, I am also of the belief that there is no single story to any individual. Consequently, it is important to understand the social, cultural, political, and spiritual context of each individual.
Marcus uses a strength-based approach to therapy, and understands that everyone, including those seeking relationship counseling, deserve a place to focus on what's important to them. He believes the human spirit has an astounding capacity for resilience against seemingly unbeatable odds. He meets the client where they are and helps build upon their existing skills to create a life they are excited about. In addition to couples work, Marcus’s background includes working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities, youth in residential housing settings, high schools, and unhoused families in crisis.
Marcus uses a strength-based approach to therapy, and understands that everyone, including those seeking relationship counseling, deserve a place to focus on what's important to them. He believes the human spirit has an astounding capacity for resilience against seemingly unbeatable odds. He meets the client where they are and helps build upon their existing skills to create a life they are excited about. In addition to couples work, Marcus’s background includes working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities, youth in residential housing settings, high schools, and unhoused families in crisis.
Michaela Thompson - Be You Therapy and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LSCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting new clients as of 5/2025. Are you going through significant life changes that have affected your mental, emotional, and physical health? These changes may involve starting a new job, entering or exiting relationships, experiencing pregnancy or postpartum challenges, or dealing with loss. Such moments often necessitate adjustment and can serve as valuable opportunities for personal development & self-exploration. If you find it difficult to navigate this period, I am here to support you
In our therapeutic partnership, we will explore your concerns, foster a deeper understanding of each other, and establish goals aimed
Accepting new clients as of 5/2025. Are you going through significant life changes that have affected your mental, emotional, and physical health? These changes may involve starting a new job, entering or exiting relationships, experiencing pregnancy or postpartum challenges, or dealing with loss. Such moments often necessitate adjustment and can serve as valuable opportunities for personal development & self-exploration. If you find it difficult to navigate this period, I am here to support you
In our therapeutic partnership, we will explore your concerns, foster a deeper understanding of each other, and establish goals aimed
As a Black woman therapist, I'm especially passionate about supporting Black women and other professionals navigating burnout, healing, and family of origin issues.
Welcome. Using integrative therapy that may include Brainspotting and other mind-body approaches, I help clients move toward deeper calm, resilience, and a greater sense of freedom in their lives.
I also offer comprehensive ADHD assessments for adults seeking diagnostic clarity and documentation.
As a Black woman therapist, I'm especially passionate about supporting Black women and other professionals navigating burnout, healing, and family of origin issues.
Welcome. Using integrative therapy that may include Brainspotting and other mind-body approaches, I help clients move toward deeper calm, resilience, and a greater sense of freedom in their lives.
I also offer comprehensive ADHD assessments for adults seeking diagnostic clarity and documentation.
Do feelings of overwhelm, stress or unworthiness have you at an impasse? Struggling with the impacts of trauma, abuse or grief? Working through issues around racial identity, sexual orientation, or internalized oppression? Dealing with depression or anxiety? Do you have difficulty establishing healthy boundaries and making yourself the main character of your life? I am here to support you with holding the range of human emotions and experiences with greater ease, and unpacking patterns and behaviors that no longer serve you. Together, we will create a path forward that enhances your sense of agency, peace and fulfillment.
Do feelings of overwhelm, stress or unworthiness have you at an impasse? Struggling with the impacts of trauma, abuse or grief? Working through issues around racial identity, sexual orientation, or internalized oppression? Dealing with depression or anxiety? Do you have difficulty establishing healthy boundaries and making yourself the main character of your life? I am here to support you with holding the range of human emotions and experiences with greater ease, and unpacking patterns and behaviors that no longer serve you. Together, we will create a path forward that enhances your sense of agency, peace and fulfillment.
My goal is to serve clients who are ready to explore their inner world, even if they feel unsure of where to start. They may be struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, relationship challenges, or navigating major life transitions. What they all share is a desire for change—whether that means building healthier coping skills, improving communication, or simply feeling more connected to themselves. I enjoy working with clients who are open to reflection and growth, and who value having a safe, supportive space to process their experiences.
My goal is to serve clients who are ready to explore their inner world, even if they feel unsure of where to start. They may be struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, relationship challenges, or navigating major life transitions. What they all share is a desire for change—whether that means building healthier coping skills, improving communication, or simply feeling more connected to themselves. I enjoy working with clients who are open to reflection and growth, and who value having a safe, supportive space to process their experiences.
Does it feel like your mind never slows down, leaving you overwhelmed and unsure how to move forward? Many of my clients come to therapy feeling weighed down by anxiety, relationship struggles, or long-standing emotional pain. You may feel stuck in cycles of overthinking, exhaustion, or low motivation, and wonder why things feel so difficult right now. What you’re really looking for is clarity, understanding, and a place where you can finally sort through what’s been building inside. Therapy can offer the support and perspective needed to begin healing and moving toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Does it feel like your mind never slows down, leaving you overwhelmed and unsure how to move forward? Many of my clients come to therapy feeling weighed down by anxiety, relationship struggles, or long-standing emotional pain. You may feel stuck in cycles of overthinking, exhaustion, or low motivation, and wonder why things feel so difficult right now. What you’re really looking for is clarity, understanding, and a place where you can finally sort through what’s been building inside. Therapy can offer the support and perspective needed to begin healing and moving toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Are you looking to heal from trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, experiences with abuse and family violence? Or years of navigating systemic oppression? Are you motivated to develop into your most joyful and resilient self? Let me help you metabolize pain into triumph. I’ve been helping individuals, families and groups transcend trauma, abuse and grief for over 10 years in California and Hawai’i. I have a liberatory and integrative approach that is authentic, collaborative, warm, creative and joyful.
Are you looking to heal from trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, experiences with abuse and family violence? Or years of navigating systemic oppression? Are you motivated to develop into your most joyful and resilient self? Let me help you metabolize pain into triumph. I’ve been helping individuals, families and groups transcend trauma, abuse and grief for over 10 years in California and Hawai’i. I have a liberatory and integrative approach that is authentic, collaborative, warm, creative and joyful.
As someone who is Black, Queer, and Genderqueer, I create space where BIPOC folks can explore and thrive without explaining their experiences.
The shape of who we are today is heavily influenced by our childhood experiences and relationships (attachments). I know what it's like to have developed ways of protecting yourself that once kept you safe but now feel like invisible walls. The things we learned to do —to survive, to cope, to make it through—they become part of how we move through the world, even when we don't need them anymore. In therapy, we work together to gently uncover those patterns, not to blame or pathologize, but to understand the story they’re telling and how they may be keeping you stuck
As someone who is Black, Queer, and Genderqueer, I create space where BIPOC folks can explore and thrive without explaining their experiences.
The shape of who we are today is heavily influenced by our childhood experiences and relationships (attachments). I know what it's like to have developed ways of protecting yourself that once kept you safe but now feel like invisible walls. The things we learned to do —to survive, to cope, to make it through—they become part of how we move through the world, even when we don't need them anymore. In therapy, we work together to gently uncover those patterns, not to blame or pathologize, but to understand the story they’re telling and how they may be keeping you stuck
I am the author of: "Emotionally Focused Therapy with African American Couples: Love Heals.
Welcome! REPAIR emotional injuries, RECOVER from harm, and RENEW relationships! I am an Associate Professor at the University of California, Berkeley, where I have taught EFT. I have been a consultant and instructor to the National Football League, the Oakland Raiders football team, and a consultant to the Sacramento Kings Professional basketball team.
I am the author of: "Emotionally Focused Therapy with African American Couples: Love Heals.
Welcome! REPAIR emotional injuries, RECOVER from harm, and RENEW relationships! I am an Associate Professor at the University of California, Berkeley, where I have taught EFT. I have been a consultant and instructor to the National Football League, the Oakland Raiders football team, and a consultant to the Sacramento Kings Professional basketball team.
Are you tired and overwhelmed? Exhausted from the news and done being the hero? Is it difficult for you to ask for help because you're the helper? While you feel depleted, there is still a spark within, guiding you to focus on your own wellness. Your head is barely above water, yet you are determined to emerge and need help to do so. Perhaps it is time to enter a relationship with a therapist: a collaborator who can journey with you to explore your past, build mindful awareness in the present, and develop skills to achieve your future goals of self compassion, acceptance and authentic connection to yourself and others.
Are you tired and overwhelmed? Exhausted from the news and done being the hero? Is it difficult for you to ask for help because you're the helper? While you feel depleted, there is still a spark within, guiding you to focus on your own wellness. Your head is barely above water, yet you are determined to emerge and need help to do so. Perhaps it is time to enter a relationship with a therapist: a collaborator who can journey with you to explore your past, build mindful awareness in the present, and develop skills to achieve your future goals of self compassion, acceptance and authentic connection to yourself and others.
We are all on this life journey but we don't have to go through it alone. Cloud Chiron therapy sets you up for success for your waking and sleep hours. I help my clients rewire their mindset which takes you farther than treating symptoms. My primary focus is treating depression, anxiety and sleep issues. I have over 5 years experience working with adults from all walks of life.
We are all on this life journey but we don't have to go through it alone. Cloud Chiron therapy sets you up for success for your waking and sleep hours. I help my clients rewire their mindset which takes you farther than treating symptoms. My primary focus is treating depression, anxiety and sleep issues. I have over 5 years experience working with adults from all walks of life.
Alisa Zachery - Inner Essence Therapy & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCATP, CAMS-II
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You’re capable & driven – & you’ve been holding it together for a long time, but lately the stress, anxiety, or overwhelming pressure to perform has become too heavy to manage on your own. Whether you’re an older teen navigating new pressures, or an adult professional navigating high-pressure expectations while managing the evolving demands of work, family, & personal growth, you may be experiencing symptoms of anxiety, chronic stress, burnout, or emotional dysregulation that interfere with functioning. Confidentiality, discretion, & stigma-free care, is priority for clients working in sensitive professions or highly visible roles.
You’re capable & driven – & you’ve been holding it together for a long time, but lately the stress, anxiety, or overwhelming pressure to perform has become too heavy to manage on your own. Whether you’re an older teen navigating new pressures, or an adult professional navigating high-pressure expectations while managing the evolving demands of work, family, & personal growth, you may be experiencing symptoms of anxiety, chronic stress, burnout, or emotional dysregulation that interfere with functioning. Confidentiality, discretion, & stigma-free care, is priority for clients working in sensitive professions or highly visible roles.
As a Black Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with immigrant parents, I bring cultural awareness, warmth, and curiosity into our work while keeping the focus on what matters most to you.
Life can feel overwhelming when you’re juggling stress, anxiety, relationships, or big transitions. Maybe you’re functioning on the outside but feeling stuck, burned out, or unsure about how to carry it alone. You want clarity, relief, and a space where you can speak openly without judgment.
As a Black Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with immigrant parents, I bring cultural awareness, warmth, and curiosity into our work while keeping the focus on what matters most to you.
Life can feel overwhelming when you’re juggling stress, anxiety, relationships, or big transitions. Maybe you’re functioning on the outside but feeling stuck, burned out, or unsure about how to carry it alone. You want clarity, relief, and a space where you can speak openly without judgment.
See more therapy options for Oakland
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Oakland
- Alameda
- Albany
- Berkeley
- Castro Valley
- El Cerrito
- Emeryville
- Lafayette
- Moraga
- Orinda
- Piedmont
- San Francisco
- San Leandro
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.