Black and African American Therapists in Palm Desert, CA

Photo of Alyssa Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Alyssa Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Palm Desert, CA 92260
Hi! I’m Alyssa Jones, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist serving the Coachella Valley and surrounding areas. I returned to the Coachella Valley in 2017 to pursue my hearts mission of bringing hope and healing to my hometown. I am passionate about supporting individuals, adolescents and young adults as they navigate through life's challenges and rise above them by creating new meaning in life. I am a firm believer that despite our hardships, there is still strength in the struggle to continue to rise through what we go through.
Hi! I’m Alyssa Jones, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist serving the Coachella Valley and surrounding areas. I returned to the Coachella Valley in 2017 to pursue my hearts mission of bringing hope and healing to my hometown. I am passionate about supporting individuals, adolescents and young adults as they navigate through life's challenges and rise above them by creating new meaning in life. I am a firm believer that despite our hardships, there is still strength in the struggle to continue to rise through what we go through.
(760) 254-0901 View (760) 254-0901
Photo of Tenesha Thompson-Hoskins, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Tenesha Thompson-Hoskins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Palm Desert, CA 92211
I've been counseling for over 20 years, working with a diversity of clients various issues but not limited to those with addiction, codependency, self-esteem, low motivation, anxiety, depression and racial inequalities as well, just to name a few. I enjoy working with client as they take this courageous journey to finding some different and better coping skills. I also love working with client as they begin to gain more insight into the past trauma and ways to changing their tomorrows. I have a passion of working with clients on looking at levels of forgiveness, breaking down past shame and guilt that one may still be suffering.
I've been counseling for over 20 years, working with a diversity of clients various issues but not limited to those with addiction, codependency, self-esteem, low motivation, anxiety, depression and racial inequalities as well, just to name a few. I enjoy working with client as they take this courageous journey to finding some different and better coping skills. I also love working with client as they begin to gain more insight into the past trauma and ways to changing their tomorrows. I have a passion of working with clients on looking at levels of forgiveness, breaking down past shame and guilt that one may still be suffering.
(760) 334-7868 View (760) 334-7868
Photo of Ebony Harris, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Ebony Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Welcome! My name is Ebony Harris, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. As a therapist, it is a privilege to walk alongside my clients on their unique journey to overcome barriers that are preventing them from living their full potential. I am passionate about empowering my clients to heal and live authentically. "One chapter doesn't tell the full story." Let's continue writing your story!
Welcome! My name is Ebony Harris, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. As a therapist, it is a privilege to walk alongside my clients on their unique journey to overcome barriers that are preventing them from living their full potential. I am passionate about empowering my clients to heal and live authentically. "One chapter doesn't tell the full story." Let's continue writing your story!
(510) 298-3782 View (510) 298-3782
Photo of Chanell Dudley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chanell Dudley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from California State University, Dominguez Hills, and a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California, with a concentration on Children, Youth, and Families I believe that healing is a collaborative endeavor that requires non-judgmental caring I assist client’s in recognizing their strengths and helping them realize their potential to live happy and fulfilling lives I provide an environment of compassion, empathy, and support to help individuals overcome their obstacles.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from California State University, Dominguez Hills, and a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California, with a concentration on Children, Youth, and Families I believe that healing is a collaborative endeavor that requires non-judgmental caring I assist client’s in recognizing their strengths and helping them realize their potential to live happy and fulfilling lives I provide an environment of compassion, empathy, and support to help individuals overcome their obstacles.
(408) 692-0667 View (408) 692-0667
Photo of Teresa Adams-Ridila - I Can Learn, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PPS, LMFT
I Can Learn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PPS, LMFT
Palm Desert, CA 92211
You can learn to take control of yourself, your family, and your life! Positive communication and interpersonal interactions can be yours! Having worked with children, teens, and families for over 30 years as a teacher, school counselor, or therapist, I am familiar with the challenges, frustrations, and unique demands of trying to managing school, work, and family life. I am absolutely passionate about providing a safe and comfortable place to help you achieve your goals.
You can learn to take control of yourself, your family, and your life! Positive communication and interpersonal interactions can be yours! Having worked with children, teens, and families for over 30 years as a teacher, school counselor, or therapist, I am familiar with the challenges, frustrations, and unique demands of trying to managing school, work, and family life. I am absolutely passionate about providing a safe and comfortable place to help you achieve your goals.
(760) 621-5320 View (760) 621-5320
Photo of Cindy L Andrews, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Cindy L Andrews
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Depressed, anxious, hurt, angry? Grieving? Need to reduce stress, improve self-esteem, gain communication skills or strengthen relationships? Weekends may be available. Benefit from new insight & effective personal tools. Practice new skills in a safe compassionate atmosphere. New vision & better understanding can improve our lives. Old issues can benefit with fresh insight & effective action. With personal growth, relationships can become more enriched & fulfilling. Move away from former positions of self-doubt, become empowered, act with newly found purpose & confidence. It IS possible to heal & enjoy satisfying life changes.
Depressed, anxious, hurt, angry? Grieving? Need to reduce stress, improve self-esteem, gain communication skills or strengthen relationships? Weekends may be available. Benefit from new insight & effective personal tools. Practice new skills in a safe compassionate atmosphere. New vision & better understanding can improve our lives. Old issues can benefit with fresh insight & effective action. With personal growth, relationships can become more enriched & fulfilling. Move away from former positions of self-doubt, become empowered, act with newly found purpose & confidence. It IS possible to heal & enjoy satisfying life changes.
(442) 275-8892 View (442) 275-8892
Photo of Amanda Gonzalez Galindo, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Amanda Gonzalez Galindo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Palm Desert, CA 92260
I obtained a Master Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Argosy University. I have worked in recovery, as an MFT. I manage the Family processing group, Trauma in children groups, BED groups, Anxiety and depression individual and group settings. Individual and groups counselling: psychological or emotional problems; stress, substance abuse, or family situations, and developed and implemented therapeutic treatment plan: CBT Facilitator/Relapse Prevention/Process Groups/Co-Occurring.
I obtained a Master Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Argosy University. I have worked in recovery, as an MFT. I manage the Family processing group, Trauma in children groups, BED groups, Anxiety and depression individual and group settings. Individual and groups counselling: psychological or emotional problems; stress, substance abuse, or family situations, and developed and implemented therapeutic treatment plan: CBT Facilitator/Relapse Prevention/Process Groups/Co-Occurring.
(760) 454-1383 View (760) 454-1383
Photo of Jacqueline Rivera, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jacqueline Rivera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Palm Desert, CA 92260
Navigating trauma, depression, and stress demands a compassionate, understanding approach. My practice offers a safe haven where your feelings and experiences are the forefront of our therapeutic journey. Utilizing a client-centered and reflective therapy framework, I focus on understanding your unique story, acknowledging the weight of your experiences while fostering resilience and empowerment. Our goal is to navigate these challenges together, leaning heavily on DBT to equip you with effective coping strategies and a renewed sense of hope.
Navigating trauma, depression, and stress demands a compassionate, understanding approach. My practice offers a safe haven where your feelings and experiences are the forefront of our therapeutic journey. Utilizing a client-centered and reflective therapy framework, I focus on understanding your unique story, acknowledging the weight of your experiences while fostering resilience and empowerment. Our goal is to navigate these challenges together, leaning heavily on DBT to equip you with effective coping strategies and a renewed sense of hope.
(858) 326-9919 View (858) 326-9919
Photo of Alicia L Caruthers, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Alicia L Caruthers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Palm Desert, CA 92260
The therapeutic process has been found to be challenging but what is harder to live with a less than a good quality of life. My commitment to assist my client’s can make that therapeutic process less intimidating. Through my dedication and the client’s willingness for change together can assist with the struggles of the client's mental health. The main ingredient is enough courage to take the first step and reach out to a professional for guidance through the healing process. There is no greater strength than addressing those things that are keeping someone from their full potential.
The therapeutic process has been found to be challenging but what is harder to live with a less than a good quality of life. My commitment to assist my client’s can make that therapeutic process less intimidating. Through my dedication and the client’s willingness for change together can assist with the struggles of the client's mental health. The main ingredient is enough courage to take the first step and reach out to a professional for guidance through the healing process. There is no greater strength than addressing those things that are keeping someone from their full potential.
(760) 392-2211 View (760) 392-2211
Photo of Dennis Sapire - Dennis Sapire, PhD - Clinical Health Psychologist, Psychologist, JD, PhD
Dennis Sapire, PhD - Clinical Health Psychologist
Psychologist, JD, PhD
Serves Area
I offer a supportive and calm environment. I try to infuse a blend of optimism and realism to empower and motivate clients to make the most of their lives. My therapeutic orientation is eclectic and includes Humanistic, Existential, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), action-oriented, life coaching, EMDR and Biofeedback.
I offer a supportive and calm environment. I try to infuse a blend of optimism and realism to empower and motivate clients to make the most of their lives. My therapeutic orientation is eclectic and includes Humanistic, Existential, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), action-oriented, life coaching, EMDR and Biofeedback.
(760) 512-1127 View (760) 512-1127
Photo of Robin B Brooks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Robin B Brooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Life is hard. Therapy can help. I work exclusively over the phone and provide no-cost, telemental health counseling and psychotherapy to people on Medicare. Whether you need help navigating a short term crisis, or you want to take a deep dive into existential questions about the meaning of life, teletherapy can help. While video therapy can be stressful and distracting at times, conversations over the phone are usually more grounded and internally focused.
Life is hard. Therapy can help. I work exclusively over the phone and provide no-cost, telemental health counseling and psychotherapy to people on Medicare. Whether you need help navigating a short term crisis, or you want to take a deep dive into existential questions about the meaning of life, teletherapy can help. While video therapy can be stressful and distracting at times, conversations over the phone are usually more grounded and internally focused.
(510) 957-4244 View (510) 957-4244

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hollis Theon Rogers, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CADCII, MS, MDiv
Hollis Theon Rogers
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CADCII, MS, MDiv
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Black counselor, Theon Rogers brings a wealth of cultural understanding and empathy, creating an environment where clients of all backgrounds feel seen, heard, and respected.
Hollis Theon Rogers, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (Counselor Theon), who is dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized, and expert online telehealth counseling services to Veterans, individuals, and groups. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by Veterans, Counselor Theon offers a safe and confidential virtual space where you can feel comfortable exploring your emotions, experiences, and concerns.
As a Black counselor, Theon Rogers brings a wealth of cultural understanding and empathy, creating an environment where clients of all backgrounds feel seen, heard, and respected.
Hollis Theon Rogers, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (Counselor Theon), who is dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized, and expert online telehealth counseling services to Veterans, individuals, and groups. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by Veterans, Counselor Theon offers a safe and confidential virtual space where you can feel comfortable exploring your emotions, experiences, and concerns.
(760) 621-3213 View (760) 621-3213
Photo of Jonathan W. Thompson II, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC, CCTP, CSAM
Jonathan W. Thompson II
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC, CCTP, CSAM
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m an experienced Black mental health clinician with over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, couples, parents, and families, including resource (foster) parents.
You’re doing the hard work of seeking out therapy in 2025, and that’s truly commendable. The past few years may have been the catalyst for you to realize that now is the perfect time to enhance your mood, reduce stress, and improve your relationships. Therapy can be the first step in identifying goals and addressing needs that may have been neglected during the pandemic and possibly throughout your life. Are you living your best possible life? If so, maybe there are a few small things that need minor adjustments. If not, let’s start this journey together towards the best days of your life.
I’m an experienced Black mental health clinician with over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, couples, parents, and families, including resource (foster) parents.
You’re doing the hard work of seeking out therapy in 2025, and that’s truly commendable. The past few years may have been the catalyst for you to realize that now is the perfect time to enhance your mood, reduce stress, and improve your relationships. Therapy can be the first step in identifying goals and addressing needs that may have been neglected during the pandemic and possibly throughout your life. Are you living your best possible life? If so, maybe there are a few small things that need minor adjustments. If not, let’s start this journey together towards the best days of your life.
(805) 243-2203 View (805) 243-2203
Photo of Ruby Bridges Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ruby Bridges Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Meet Ruby, your new black / queer / autistic / kinky / poly sex therapist.
My focus areas include non-monogamous and polyamorous relationships, kink and BDSM, LGBTQ issues, interracial relationships, infidelity, and out of control sexual behaviors. My clients learn new ways to stay in tune with their bodies during intimacy by filtering out distractions and insecurities.
Meet Ruby, your new black / queer / autistic / kinky / poly sex therapist.
My focus areas include non-monogamous and polyamorous relationships, kink and BDSM, LGBTQ issues, interracial relationships, infidelity, and out of control sexual behaviors. My clients learn new ways to stay in tune with their bodies during intimacy by filtering out distractions and insecurities.
(424) 379-3463 View (424) 379-3463
Photo of Dr. Michael Grey - The Kink Therapist- Dr. Michael Grey, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
The Kink Therapist- Dr. Michael Grey
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
You can’t stop thinking about it; just the thought of it turns you on. You’re a kinky person, and you picture yourself having all those "nasty things" done to you; the beads of sweat roll down your chest, you try to catch your breath, and then the big O happens... You’re instantly filled with shame. You’re scared, not sure how to embrace this side of yourself, feeling lost and confused; sex is no longer fun, and it’s lost its appeal. This is supposed to be fun, but you’re filled with fear and anxiety, confused, trying to figure it out all on your own. Something has to change. Things don’t have to continue this way; I can help.
You can’t stop thinking about it; just the thought of it turns you on. You’re a kinky person, and you picture yourself having all those "nasty things" done to you; the beads of sweat roll down your chest, you try to catch your breath, and then the big O happens... You’re instantly filled with shame. You’re scared, not sure how to embrace this side of yourself, feeling lost and confused; sex is no longer fun, and it’s lost its appeal. This is supposed to be fun, but you’re filled with fear and anxiety, confused, trying to figure it out all on your own. Something has to change. Things don’t have to continue this way; I can help.
(805) 608-2517 View (805) 608-2517
Photo of Victoria A Lloyd, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MS, NCC
Victoria A Lloyd
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MS, NCC
Online Only
I came into the counseling field because I wanted to give back. Yes, I have had to deal with substance abuse and mental illness with myself and family. I had challenges getting help because no one would listen to me, they just wanted to tell me it was my childhood that was the problem. Well, it was not, it was a lifetime of challenge, bad choices and not knowing how to change, cope, deal with life. I am here today, to assist you with your mental health needs, please contact me for an appointment! After you have tried the rest, with no success, let's connect!
I came into the counseling field because I wanted to give back. Yes, I have had to deal with substance abuse and mental illness with myself and family. I had challenges getting help because no one would listen to me, they just wanted to tell me it was my childhood that was the problem. Well, it was not, it was a lifetime of challenge, bad choices and not knowing how to change, cope, deal with life. I am here today, to assist you with your mental health needs, please contact me for an appointment! After you have tried the rest, with no success, let's connect!
(442) 239-4920 View (442) 239-4920
Photo of Natalie Murry, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Natalie Murry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
If you're reading this, chances are you're seeking agency and understanding on your journey toward emotional well-being and healthier relationships. I want you to know that you've come to the right place! As a trauma-informed clinician with 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I am here to offer you a unique therapeutic approach that integrates spirituality and psychological principles into your healing journey. Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event, battling anxiety or depression, struggling in your relationships, or feeling overwhelmed by life's transitions, I am here to provide support.
If you're reading this, chances are you're seeking agency and understanding on your journey toward emotional well-being and healthier relationships. I want you to know that you've come to the right place! As a trauma-informed clinician with 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I am here to offer you a unique therapeutic approach that integrates spirituality and psychological principles into your healing journey. Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event, battling anxiety or depression, struggling in your relationships, or feeling overwhelmed by life's transitions, I am here to provide support.
(323) 433-5690 View (323) 433-5690
Photo of Miranda Dinkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Miranda Dinkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
You don’t have to be strong all the time. In my therapy space, you’re free to feel, process, and heal without judgment. As women of color, we face unique pressures that make it hard to express our full selves. I offer a warm, affirming space to release burdens and navigate life’s transitions with support. I help women of color through major life changes—motherhood, loss, career shifts, or self-discovery—processing grief, anxiety, and depression in a way that feels healing and empowering.
You don’t have to be strong all the time. In my therapy space, you’re free to feel, process, and heal without judgment. As women of color, we face unique pressures that make it hard to express our full selves. I offer a warm, affirming space to release burdens and navigate life’s transitions with support. I help women of color through major life changes—motherhood, loss, career shifts, or self-discovery—processing grief, anxiety, and depression in a way that feels healing and empowering.
(909) 414-0688 View (909) 414-0688
Photo of Marcelle Turner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Marcelle Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Major life changes, previous trauma, and day-to-day life stressors can affect one’s overall wellness. My goal and great passion is bringing healing and assistance to individuals who have experienced difficult/traumatic events and ongoing changes in life. Recreating stability can assist my clients, who include children, adults, and families, to find healthy perceptions of themselves through identifying and creating self-safety and strengthening their relationships to create a healthy and whole individual.
Major life changes, previous trauma, and day-to-day life stressors can affect one’s overall wellness. My goal and great passion is bringing healing and assistance to individuals who have experienced difficult/traumatic events and ongoing changes in life. Recreating stability can assist my clients, who include children, adults, and families, to find healthy perceptions of themselves through identifying and creating self-safety and strengthening their relationships to create a healthy and whole individual.
(442) 291-2790 View (442) 291-2790
Photo of Tameika Easter-Griffin, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Tameika Easter-Griffin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I help my clients to develop coping strategies and to develop strengths to address life’s everyday issues, stressors, and traumas. I first seek to explore what has been helpful or worked in past situations and build upon that. I work with clients from all walks of life & cultures above the age of 12 years old, couples are also welcome. I provide Psychoeducation and challenge and correct thinking errors, introducing helpful skills/techniques. I am seeking to serve my clients with empathy and wisdom, to provide help and healing from life’s most difficult struggles.
I help my clients to develop coping strategies and to develop strengths to address life’s everyday issues, stressors, and traumas. I first seek to explore what has been helpful or worked in past situations and build upon that. I work with clients from all walks of life & cultures above the age of 12 years old, couples are also welcome. I provide Psychoeducation and challenge and correct thinking errors, introducing helpful skills/techniques. I am seeking to serve my clients with empathy and wisdom, to provide help and healing from life’s most difficult struggles.
(619) 826-0536 View (619) 826-0536

See more therapy options for Palm Desert

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.