Black and African American Therapists in Oakland, CA
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.
As a Black, Queer, bicultural, first-generation clinician, I'm most passionate about providing care to others of intersecting and historically marginalized identities.
One of the bravest things we can do in life is to seek help when we need it most, especially during uncertain times such as these. It can be difficult to carry our struggles alone, and a true relief when we find someone to support us as we work through them. There are many reasons why people seek therapy, but no matter what yours is today, the most important key to change is believing in the possibility of your own healing, evolution, and growth. From there you will find the path that can lead to the discovery of your full potential.
As a Black, Queer, bicultural, first-generation clinician, I'm most passionate about providing care to others of intersecting and historically marginalized identities.
One of the bravest things we can do in life is to seek help when we need it most, especially during uncertain times such as these. It can be difficult to carry our struggles alone, and a true relief when we find someone to support us as we work through them. There are many reasons why people seek therapy, but no matter what yours is today, the most important key to change is believing in the possibility of your own healing, evolution, and growth. From there you will find the path that can lead to the discovery of your full potential.
As a Black woman who understands the complexities of professional BIPOC women and I specialize in helping women create space to heal from various forms of trauma and other life challenges.
As a Professional BIPOC woman, you are navigating unique challenges in the workplace and in your personal life. Whether it is Corporate America or other professional settings, you're dealing with workplace micro-aggressions, feelings of imposter syndrome, overwork and the push and pull of personal and professional roles and choices.
You may also be affected by complex post traumatic stress disorder, racialized or intergenerational trauma as you try to find balance in your life. Challenges such as anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder or interpersonal conflicts may emerge as symptoms of deeper issues that need to be healed
As a Black woman who understands the complexities of professional BIPOC women and I specialize in helping women create space to heal from various forms of trauma and other life challenges.
As a Professional BIPOC woman, you are navigating unique challenges in the workplace and in your personal life. Whether it is Corporate America or other professional settings, you're dealing with workplace micro-aggressions, feelings of imposter syndrome, overwork and the push and pull of personal and professional roles and choices.
You may also be affected by complex post traumatic stress disorder, racialized or intergenerational trauma as you try to find balance in your life. Challenges such as anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder or interpersonal conflicts may emerge as symptoms of deeper issues that need to be healed
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.
As a black woman, I am passionate about liberated practices and the destigmatization of mental health in marginalized communities.
Is your child struggling with anxiety, depression or a big life change or a recent trauma? Are you an adult navigating grief or a transitional phase in your life and overwhelmed with stress, worry, or fear? As an Art Therapist, using a trauma-informed approach, we will work collaboratively and creatively to meet your goals. I will help you access coping skills, establishing routines, and hold space for emotional expression. I specialize in working with individuals from marginalized communities, ages 4 through adulthood, with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
As a black woman, I am passionate about liberated practices and the destigmatization of mental health in marginalized communities.
Is your child struggling with anxiety, depression or a big life change or a recent trauma? Are you an adult navigating grief or a transitional phase in your life and overwhelmed with stress, worry, or fear? As an Art Therapist, using a trauma-informed approach, we will work collaboratively and creatively to meet your goals. I will help you access coping skills, establishing routines, and hold space for emotional expression. I specialize in working with individuals from marginalized communities, ages 4 through adulthood, with anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
Shirin Shoai
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, L3 IFS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
I welcome motivated, self-reflective clients of any identity to my practice, with a particular affinity with those identifying as empathic, highly sensitive, creative, Black, and/or multiracial.
If you often find yourself feeling out of place or struggling inside—even though other people think you have it all together—I can help. I work with individual adults who are familiar with psychotherapy and want deeper, root-level healing for symptoms related to anxiety and relational trauma. This can include concerns around relationships, life transitions, overthinking, people-pleasing, self-doubt, self-limiting beliefs and thought patterns, boundaries, and self-criticism. My style is active, spacious, and focused on supporting you in slowing down, tuning into yourself, and feeling the healing wisdom that thrives within you.
I welcome motivated, self-reflective clients of any identity to my practice, with a particular affinity with those identifying as empathic, highly sensitive, creative, Black, and/or multiracial.
If you often find yourself feeling out of place or struggling inside—even though other people think you have it all together—I can help. I work with individual adults who are familiar with psychotherapy and want deeper, root-level healing for symptoms related to anxiety and relational trauma. This can include concerns around relationships, life transitions, overthinking, people-pleasing, self-doubt, self-limiting beliefs and thought patterns, boundaries, and self-criticism. My style is active, spacious, and focused on supporting you in slowing down, tuning into yourself, and feeling the healing wisdom that thrives within you.
I work with Black clients, LGBTQIA+ clients as well as clients from diverse backgrounds and use my training and understanding of human development to inform my therapeutic work and help my clients identify and understand their challenges so they can set meaningful goals.
As a clinical psychologist I provide strength-based psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. As a teaching artist and musician I specialize in work with performers, content creators and artists and I understand the unique challenges faced by those pursuing careers in the arts and entertainment.
I work with Black clients, LGBTQIA+ clients as well as clients from diverse backgrounds and use my training and understanding of human development to inform my therapeutic work and help my clients identify and understand their challenges so they can set meaningful goals.
As a clinical psychologist I provide strength-based psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. As a teaching artist and musician I specialize in work with performers, content creators and artists and I understand the unique challenges faced by those pursuing careers in the arts and entertainment.
Brittnay Nichele Stevens
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
In Black and Brown communities seeking mental health treatment is taboo.
I provide services to adults, couples, and families. I utilize different therapeutic modalities based on the needs of the client. I offer Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client/Family-Centered Approach, Conflict Resolution, Strength-Focused, and Solution-Focused. - Child Welfare, Social Work and Law Enforcement Professionals are Welcomed!
In Black and Brown communities seeking mental health treatment is taboo.
I provide services to adults, couples, and families. I utilize different therapeutic modalities based on the needs of the client. I offer Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client/Family-Centered Approach, Conflict Resolution, Strength-Focused, and Solution-Focused. - Child Welfare, Social Work and Law Enforcement Professionals are Welcomed!
As a Black woman, NICU mama, and birth trauma survivor, I understand how overwhelming this journey can be.
Do you find yourself facing the same challenges repeatedly? Feeling stuck in a pattern you just can’t break? Sometimes, life’s usual coping methods stop working. We try to push through, read self-help books, and listen to podcasts—yet nothing changes. We know something needs to shift, but we’re unsure how. In my practice, therapy begins with building a trusting relationship. Together, we’ll explore your past, clarify your values, and move forward with awareness.
As a Black woman, NICU mama, and birth trauma survivor, I understand how overwhelming this journey can be.
Do you find yourself facing the same challenges repeatedly? Feeling stuck in a pattern you just can’t break? Sometimes, life’s usual coping methods stop working. We try to push through, read self-help books, and listen to podcasts—yet nothing changes. We know something needs to shift, but we’re unsure how. In my practice, therapy begins with building a trusting relationship. Together, we’ll explore your past, clarify your values, and move forward with awareness.
As a Black pansexual woman with lived experience in sex work and non-monogamy, I offer a unique perspective that can deeply resonate with folks in these communities, a connection that I honor and value highly in my work.
I work with clients holistically to provide a nonjudgmental and empathic space where we can learn to navigate identities in a way that honors their complexity. I approach your struggles, goals, and dreams with curiosity and compassion, rooted in professional experience with queer-affirming, trauma-informed, and anti-oppressive frameworks. I work with elders and specialize in abuse, addiction, ADHD, anxiety, autism, body image issues, bullying, burnout, chronic pain, climate anxiety, romantic relationships, cult survivor support, depression, gender identity, political and climate stress, trauma counseling, and immigrant rights.
As a Black pansexual woman with lived experience in sex work and non-monogamy, I offer a unique perspective that can deeply resonate with folks in these communities, a connection that I honor and value highly in my work.
I work with clients holistically to provide a nonjudgmental and empathic space where we can learn to navigate identities in a way that honors their complexity. I approach your struggles, goals, and dreams with curiosity and compassion, rooted in professional experience with queer-affirming, trauma-informed, and anti-oppressive frameworks. I work with elders and specialize in abuse, addiction, ADHD, anxiety, autism, body image issues, bullying, burnout, chronic pain, climate anxiety, romantic relationships, cult survivor support, depression, gender identity, political and climate stress, trauma counseling, and immigrant rights.
I work with a diverse clientele and specialize in providing social justice oriented psychotherapy to Black people and other POC, as well as members of LGBTQIA+ communities.
I believe it is important to build a strong therapeutic relationship, as well as paying close attention to what is happening for you in-the-moment. I find it helpful to work to understand the different beliefs that we bring into the room, and how these worldviews might affect our interactions.
I work with a diverse clientele and specialize in providing social justice oriented psychotherapy to Black people and other POC, as well as members of LGBTQIA+ communities.
I believe it is important to build a strong therapeutic relationship, as well as paying close attention to what is happening for you in-the-moment. I find it helpful to work to understand the different beliefs that we bring into the room, and how these worldviews might affect our interactions.
Meet Our Black and African American Therapists
I am a Black same gender loving woman who expresses as masculine-of-center.
I am empathetic and relational with a Social Justice lens. I'm Internal Family Systems Level 1 and Psychedelic Assisted Therapy trained. I intend to support the healing of the client's body, mind and spirit. Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other modalities, music, drumming and nature to support clients experiencing trauma, PTSD and Depression.
I am a Black same gender loving woman who expresses as masculine-of-center.
I am empathetic and relational with a Social Justice lens. I'm Internal Family Systems Level 1 and Psychedelic Assisted Therapy trained. I intend to support the healing of the client's body, mind and spirit. Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other modalities, music, drumming and nature to support clients experiencing trauma, PTSD and Depression.
I am African American, a licensed clinical psychologist, born in Kenya, and raised in the Bay Area.
I am trained to listen deeply, assess the cause of symptoms, and assist in developing strategies to reduce suffering. I have experience helping people cope with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic health issues, acculturation/adaptation issues, and couple/family relationship problems.
I am African American, a licensed clinical psychologist, born in Kenya, and raised in the Bay Area.
I am trained to listen deeply, assess the cause of symptoms, and assist in developing strategies to reduce suffering. I have experience helping people cope with depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic health issues, acculturation/adaptation issues, and couple/family relationship problems.
I identify as a queer, Biracial ( Black/White), Feminist Multicultural Psychologist and I am passionate about diversity, equity, and social justice.
I enjoy working with folks who need support in managing a wide variety of issues from self-esteem and identity concerns to the stress of dealing with multiple roles, relationships, and life demands (as students, partners, friends, parents, new professionals, family members, community activists, etc.) My clinical interests include multicultural and women's issues, racial/ethnic identity development (especially among biracial/multi-racial/ethnic/cultural individuals), sexual and gender identity development, adjustment and transition issues, and building healthy relationships through assertive communication and positive self-esteem.
I identify as a queer, Biracial ( Black/White), Feminist Multicultural Psychologist and I am passionate about diversity, equity, and social justice.
I enjoy working with folks who need support in managing a wide variety of issues from self-esteem and identity concerns to the stress of dealing with multiple roles, relationships, and life demands (as students, partners, friends, parents, new professionals, family members, community activists, etc.) My clinical interests include multicultural and women's issues, racial/ethnic identity development (especially among biracial/multi-racial/ethnic/cultural individuals), sexual and gender identity development, adjustment and transition issues, and building healthy relationships through assertive communication and positive self-esteem.
In a world not created for our comfort or success, the challenges of Black, Latine/a/x, Indigenous, Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI), and People of Color often go unnoticed by others.
My approach is person-centered and strengths-based. You are the expert of your life, and we will work together to identify and use your strengths to create healthier relationships, increase self-esteem, and build resilience. Transforming into your most joyful self requires dedication and hard work, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
In a world not created for our comfort or success, the challenges of Black, Latine/a/x, Indigenous, Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI), and People of Color often go unnoticed by others.
My approach is person-centered and strengths-based. You are the expert of your life, and we will work together to identify and use your strengths to create healthier relationships, increase self-esteem, and build resilience. Transforming into your most joyful self requires dedication and hard work, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
Bethbirei Johnson
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
There has been a stigma associated with seeking mental health services and counseling among Black Americans.
There is not a one size fits all when it comes to those with unique needs. Throughout my life, I have worked with many ' that bring a distinctive blueprint. I lead with my spirituality, ears, heart, and eyes. What drives me is my compassion, zeal, unconditional love for others, patience, and helping bridge the gap for our future generations. I specialize in working with children, youth, and families that have been confronted with PTSD, sexual/physical/emotional abuse, divorce, grievance, substance abuse, homelessness, domestic violence, spirituality, behavioral challenges, and individuals with disabilities. I
There has been a stigma associated with seeking mental health services and counseling among Black Americans.
There is not a one size fits all when it comes to those with unique needs. Throughout my life, I have worked with many ' that bring a distinctive blueprint. I lead with my spirituality, ears, heart, and eyes. What drives me is my compassion, zeal, unconditional love for others, patience, and helping bridge the gap for our future generations. I specialize in working with children, youth, and families that have been confronted with PTSD, sexual/physical/emotional abuse, divorce, grievance, substance abuse, homelessness, domestic violence, spirituality, behavioral challenges, and individuals with disabilities. I
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.
We work to empower Black, Asian, Pacific Islander, Latino (Latine/x), Indigionous and Native American, and other People of Color as well as LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, performer, educator, and professional clients.
At Deeper Than Color, we believe in online therapy that honors your identity and values. Our experienced clinicians are trained in social justice and multicultural counseling. We listen to your present concerns and explore how your beliefs and backgrounds shape your relationship with yourself and others.
We work to empower Black, Asian, Pacific Islander, Latino (Latine/x), Indigionous and Native American, and other People of Color as well as LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, performer, educator, and professional clients.
At Deeper Than Color, we believe in online therapy that honors your identity and values. Our experienced clinicians are trained in social justice and multicultural counseling. We listen to your present concerns and explore how your beliefs and backgrounds shape your relationship with yourself and others.
I teach courses in psychopathology, ethics & laws in psychotherapy, African American cultural history & psychology.
Life is full of challenges that generate varied degrees of stress, anxiety and depression, even substance abuse. Challenges may include: Personal and family relationships, finances, career, illness and loss of creative engagement with your self and the world. Psychotherapy can offer time and a special place for self discovery, reflection, revitalization, resilience, insight, empowerment and access to your creativity; creative expression and creative living. Our lives can be what we imagine and want them to be. We can develop our active imagination to envision a life of purpose, meaning and the joy we are meant to have.
I teach courses in psychopathology, ethics & laws in psychotherapy, African American cultural history & psychology.
Life is full of challenges that generate varied degrees of stress, anxiety and depression, even substance abuse. Challenges may include: Personal and family relationships, finances, career, illness and loss of creative engagement with your self and the world. Psychotherapy can offer time and a special place for self discovery, reflection, revitalization, resilience, insight, empowerment and access to your creativity; creative expression and creative living. Our lives can be what we imagine and want them to be. We can develop our active imagination to envision a life of purpose, meaning and the joy we are meant to have.
I work with individuals, but my focus is African American men in their first five years of marriage (Generation 1.
With warmth, lightness and respect, I create an environment where you are both supported and challenged to overcome that which brought you here...whether it is problems with other people, anxiety or depression. I also help with clarifying values. As needed, we develop a strategy together to overcome barriers that stop you from being your best self.
I work with individuals, but my focus is African American men in their first five years of marriage (Generation 1.
With warmth, lightness and respect, I create an environment where you are both supported and challenged to overcome that which brought you here...whether it is problems with other people, anxiety or depression. I also help with clarifying values. As needed, we develop a strategy together to overcome barriers that stop you from being your best self.
See more therapy options for Oakland
Nearby 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.