Black and African American Therapists in Poway, CA
Current Openings Available (Mon-Fri: 4-8pm and Sat: 8am-12pm): Meet Natasha Mills, a dedicated and compassionate therapist who believes that healing can be both effective and, yes, even a little fun! Specializing in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy for OCD, Natasha has a passion for helping clients navigate the challenges of anxiety, Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRB), Body Dysmorphic Disorder, and PTSD.
Current Openings Available (Mon-Fri: 4-8pm and Sat: 8am-12pm): Meet Natasha Mills, a dedicated and compassionate therapist who believes that healing can be both effective and, yes, even a little fun! Specializing in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy for OCD, Natasha has a passion for helping clients navigate the challenges of anxiety, Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRB), Body Dysmorphic Disorder, and PTSD.
Hello! My name is Candice Clayton, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience in mental health. I use a strength-based and solution-focused approach to support your personal growth and mental health journey. I have a wide experience in the mental health field from children to adults to couples. I mainly treat adults and couples at this time who are going through various phases and changes in life. I treat trauma, anxiety, depression, infidelity, relationship issues, and imposter syndrome.
Hello! My name is Candice Clayton, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years of experience in mental health. I use a strength-based and solution-focused approach to support your personal growth and mental health journey. I have a wide experience in the mental health field from children to adults to couples. I mainly treat adults and couples at this time who are going through various phases and changes in life. I treat trauma, anxiety, depression, infidelity, relationship issues, and imposter syndrome.
Hi, my name is Philippa Mariner, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am a strength-based therapist because I believe in and like to build on the inherent strength of a person. I currently work with couples who are separated or going through a divorce, and I work with them to establish a parenting plan. While in session, I address their depression, anxiety and often the trauma of domestic violence. I am comfortable working with individuals struggling with problems related to the social environment.
Hi, my name is Philippa Mariner, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am a strength-based therapist because I believe in and like to build on the inherent strength of a person. I currently work with couples who are separated or going through a divorce, and I work with them to establish a parenting plan. While in session, I address their depression, anxiety and often the trauma of domestic violence. I am comfortable working with individuals struggling with problems related to the social environment.
Hi, my name is Kelli Washington. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist, practicing in both California and Utah. I work with teens and young adults; navigating everyday difficulties, relationships, life transitions, and how to implement healthy practices into their daily lives. I work primarily with teens and young adults; navigating anxiety, depression, relationships, family difficulties, school, work, unhealthy thought patterns, goal setting, life transitions, and self-esteem.
Hi, my name is Kelli Washington. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist, practicing in both California and Utah. I work with teens and young adults; navigating everyday difficulties, relationships, life transitions, and how to implement healthy practices into their daily lives. I work primarily with teens and young adults; navigating anxiety, depression, relationships, family difficulties, school, work, unhealthy thought patterns, goal setting, life transitions, and self-esteem.
My name is Casandra Oyeka and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, bipolar, and schizophrenia treatment using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to support my clients in reaching their goals and promote a healthy mind, body, and soul.
My name is Casandra Oyeka and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, stress, trauma, depression, bipolar, and schizophrenia treatment using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to support my clients in reaching their goals and promote a healthy mind, body, and soul.
I am a Licensed Educational Psychologist and have been in practice for over 17 years. I specialize in diagnosis of disorders that impact learning such as ADHD, Auditory and Visual Processing Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and social/emotional difficulties (Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Motivation). 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 17 years. I specialize in diagnosis of disorders that impact learning such as ADHD, Auditory and Visual Processing Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and social/emotional difficulties (Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Motivation). 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 Psychologist in LA, CA. I believe therapy is not a sign that something is deeply wrong with you personally, but sometimes we reach a stuck point (emotionally or mentally) and we do not know why, therapy helps uncover those stuck points to get you back on track. I have a deep interest in helping individuals gain perspective and other tools to navigate life's challenges, I focus on the doing the mental and heart work to ensure you are equipped to live at your highest potential.I utilize an eclectic approach therapy that allows me to draw from various forms of treatment to fit the needs of each individual.
I am a Licensed Psychologist in LA, CA. I believe therapy is not a sign that something is deeply wrong with you personally, but sometimes we reach a stuck point (emotionally or mentally) and we do not know why, therapy helps uncover those stuck points to get you back on track. I have a deep interest in helping individuals gain perspective and other tools to navigate life's challenges, I focus on the doing the mental and heart work to ensure you are equipped to live at your highest potential.I utilize an eclectic approach therapy that allows me to draw from various forms of treatment to fit the needs of each individual.
Dana Nicole Sandoval
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92064 (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Dana Sandoval, LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), and I am based in the Inland Empire area of Southern California. I provide telehealth therapy for clients statewide. My expertise lies in working with adolescents and adults who are navigating life transitions and the various challenges that arise in everyday life. My approach to therapy is client-centered, meaning I prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and validated. I believe in the importance of building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and collaboration.
Hello. My name is Dana Sandoval, LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), and I am based in the Inland Empire area of Southern California. I provide telehealth therapy for clients statewide. My expertise lies in working with adolescents and adults who are navigating life transitions and the various challenges that arise in everyday life. My approach to therapy is client-centered, meaning I prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and validated. I believe in the importance of building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and collaboration.
Being a teenager can be hard and being a parent of a teenager can be challenging. Knowing that we all desire for children to be emotionally well adjusted and academically successful, it is sometimes necessary to seek support. I am available to support your family through the journey of adolescence and can provide you with valuable information about your child's learning abilities and emotional functioning and tools to navigate the education system. You are not alone. I am here to support you.
Being a teenager can be hard and being a parent of a teenager can be challenging. Knowing that we all desire for children to be emotionally well adjusted and academically successful, it is sometimes necessary to seek support. I am available to support your family through the journey of adolescence and can provide you with valuable information about your child's learning abilities and emotional functioning and tools to navigate the education system. You are not alone. I am here to support you.
Are you struggling with: racing thoughts, anxiety, lack of focus and concentration? Are you having trouble sleeping at night? If so, clinical research has shown that yoga, mindfulness and psychotherapy are sometimes better solutions than medication. When things fall apart I can help you find ways to use hard times to cultivate wisdom, compassion and courage. My goal is to guide you on a journey of self-fulfillment and true happiness. You will learn how to navigate chaotic situations by transforming old habits, thoughts and beliefs that no longer serve you.
Are you struggling with: racing thoughts, anxiety, lack of focus and concentration? Are you having trouble sleeping at night? If so, clinical research has shown that yoga, mindfulness and psychotherapy are sometimes better solutions than medication. When things fall apart I can help you find ways to use hard times to cultivate wisdom, compassion and courage. My goal is to guide you on a journey of self-fulfillment and true happiness. You will learn how to navigate chaotic situations by transforming old habits, thoughts and beliefs that no longer serve you.
Selected as one of the Three Best Rated Psychologists in San Diego in 2022, 2023 and 2024 and Woman of Distinction in 2023.. With 25 years of experience, I have been able to successfully empower individuals to identify and transform their personal, relational and professional challenges and reach their desired goals. I will bring compassion, respect and unique insight into our work together. My license is at the doctoral level as a psychologist, as well as having been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist. Treatment will be uniquely tailored to your personality to effectively alleviate discomfort and maximize your goals.
Selected as one of the Three Best Rated Psychologists in San Diego in 2022, 2023 and 2024 and Woman of Distinction in 2023.. With 25 years of experience, I have been able to successfully empower individuals to identify and transform their personal, relational and professional challenges and reach their desired goals. I will bring compassion, respect and unique insight into our work together. My license is at the doctoral level as a psychologist, as well as having been licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist. Treatment will be uniquely tailored to your personality to effectively alleviate discomfort and maximize your goals.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
My clinical experience includes providing individual, family, and group therapy to individuals across the lifespan and with varying cultural backgrounds and presenting concerns. I have experience in working within varying levels of care within the hospital system as well as private outpatient practice. My research background has focused upon multicultural/acculturation issues, bicultural identity development, and utilizing integrative approaches to maintaining wellness. My years of experience and training allow me to utilize evidence based treatments in the treatment of health related conditions, mood disorders, and trauma.
My clinical experience includes providing individual, family, and group therapy to individuals across the lifespan and with varying cultural backgrounds and presenting concerns. I have experience in working within varying levels of care within the hospital system as well as private outpatient practice. My research background has focused upon multicultural/acculturation issues, bicultural identity development, and utilizing integrative approaches to maintaining wellness. My years of experience and training allow me to utilize evidence based treatments in the treatment of health related conditions, mood disorders, and trauma.
Psychological Solutions, Inc.
Registered Psychological Assistant, Intern, PSB
Verified Verified
Poway, CA 92074 (Online Only)
I am Dr. Lydia Williams, a Post-Doctoral Associate of Psychology since 2019, and serving mental health since 1984. Like many, I want the best for those I hold dear to me. In fact, that's what pushed me into a mental health career. I saw the pain my own family had to endure and I wanted it to stop, and quickly. No one should have to suffer.
I am Dr. Lydia Williams, a Post-Doctoral Associate of Psychology since 2019, and serving mental health since 1984. Like many, I want the best for those I hold dear to me. In fact, that's what pushed me into a mental health career. I saw the pain my own family had to endure and I wanted it to stop, and quickly. No one should have to suffer.
Hi, my name is Sara Tynes. I have been practicing for 8 years and have experience working with children, teens, adults, and couples. I am dedicated to helping people who seek improvement, are willing to embrace vulnerability, and desire a sense of connection—those who don’t want to face challenges alone. Life can be tough, but having someone to walk alongside you during difficult seasons can make all the difference.
Hi, my name is Sara Tynes. I have been practicing for 8 years and have experience working with children, teens, adults, and couples. I am dedicated to helping people who seek improvement, are willing to embrace vulnerability, and desire a sense of connection—those who don’t want to face challenges alone. Life can be tough, but having someone to walk alongside you during difficult seasons can make all the difference.
I am retired military & OIF Veteran, & work with my clients to develop specific treatment goals that improve the quality of their lives & relationships. Practicing therapy for 30 years in military & civilian settings, and practice action-oriented, 'trauma-informed therapy,' (trauma is relative). This is true no matter what the diagnosis is. I use EMDR & EMDR-Flash Technique for more effective results. Expert in prevention & treatment of trauma mood disorders, sleep disorders (Exceptional treatment for nightmares!), & rapid resolution of relationship issues for families and couples of any gender & orientation-ALL really means ALL!
I am retired military & OIF Veteran, & work with my clients to develop specific treatment goals that improve the quality of their lives & relationships. Practicing therapy for 30 years in military & civilian settings, and practice action-oriented, 'trauma-informed therapy,' (trauma is relative). This is true no matter what the diagnosis is. I use EMDR & EMDR-Flash Technique for more effective results. Expert in prevention & treatment of trauma mood disorders, sleep disorders (Exceptional treatment for nightmares!), & rapid resolution of relationship issues for families and couples of any gender & orientation-ALL really means ALL!
More Therapists Nearby
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.
Bedford Palmer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92126 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
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 provide culturally responsive therapy, which focuses on the strengths you already have. I tend to use a cognitive-behavioral theoretical approach (CBT), while also paying attention to your environment and access to social support. I work with you to build a safe space where you can share your experiences without the fear of being judged, and where you can focus on becoming clear about what you want, and how you want to go about making that happen.
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 provide culturally responsive therapy, which focuses on the strengths you already have. I tend to use a cognitive-behavioral theoretical approach (CBT), while also paying attention to your environment and access to social support. I work with you to build a safe space where you can share your experiences without the fear of being judged, and where you can focus on becoming clear about what you want, and how you want to go about making that happen.
Macala A Lacy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CYT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92126 (Online Only)
I specialize in helping Black & POC queer women, femmes, and nonbinary folks develop holistic coping strategies for complex identity and relational trauma.
Hey there! My name is Macala ("muh-kae-luh"; pronouns: she/they) and I strive to make therapy accessible and relevant for Black and queer communities of color. As an EMDR trained yoga psychotherapist, I integrate mindfulness and neuroscience to support your mental health. My practice is rooted in considering you as a whole person - mind, body, spirit, culture, and in relationship to community. Together we will collaborate on a goal, learn practical techniques to improve your wellbeing, and progress at your pace towards growth.
I specialize in helping Black & POC queer women, femmes, and nonbinary folks develop holistic coping strategies for complex identity and relational trauma.
Hey there! My name is Macala ("muh-kae-luh"; pronouns: she/they) and I strive to make therapy accessible and relevant for Black and queer communities of color. As an EMDR trained yoga psychotherapist, I integrate mindfulness and neuroscience to support your mental health. My practice is rooted in considering you as a whole person - mind, body, spirit, culture, and in relationship to community. Together we will collaborate on a goal, learn practical techniques to improve your wellbeing, and progress at your pace towards growth.
See more therapy options for Poway
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Poway
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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.