Black and African American Therapists in Vista, CA
Life seems intense, overwhelming, or stressful right now. Fear, anger, and exhaustion are familiar emotions. Your parent/boss/spouse just doesn't get it and you don't know how to explain it to them. Perhaps you're questioning your identity, coming out to your family or to your child(ren), experiencing separation/divorce, ready to transition, or coping with loss. You want a safe place to discuss and leave behind feelings of loneliness, sadness, and confusion. You want to figure out a way to get through the week (the day!) and the next. You want relief. You want to be understood. Let's talk. Your first phone consultation is free.
Life seems intense, overwhelming, or stressful right now. Fear, anger, and exhaustion are familiar emotions. Your parent/boss/spouse just doesn't get it and you don't know how to explain it to them. Perhaps you're questioning your identity, coming out to your family or to your child(ren), experiencing separation/divorce, ready to transition, or coping with loss. You want a safe place to discuss and leave behind feelings of loneliness, sadness, and confusion. You want to figure out a way to get through the week (the day!) and the next. You want relief. You want to be understood. Let's talk. Your first phone consultation is free.
Wenonah is a licensed therapist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She has several years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults, and she specializes in helping students and young adults manage anxiety, depression and ADHD. Wenonah utilizes evidence-based practices and maintains a trauma-informed, warm, and collaborative approach in her clinical work.
Wenonah is a licensed therapist at Bonmente, a full-service mental health clinic that offers online appointments, accepts insurance (Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross, Cigna, United, and more), and has same-week appointments available. She has several years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults, and she specializes in helping students and young adults manage anxiety, depression and ADHD. Wenonah utilizes evidence-based practices and maintains a trauma-informed, warm, and collaborative approach in her clinical work.
Hello, my name is Nathen Brown. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have over 20 years of experience working with high-risk youth populations as well as adults with duo diagnosis. My primary therapeutic goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment, where all clients ultimately feel heard, understood, and valued. My theoretical approach focuses on assessing each client from a trauma-informed lens while identifying interpersonal needs through a bio-psychosocial lens. Various treatment modalities that I utilize include CBT, DBT, solution-focused therapy, and crisis management techniques.
Hello, my name is Nathen Brown. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have over 20 years of experience working with high-risk youth populations as well as adults with duo diagnosis. My primary therapeutic goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment, where all clients ultimately feel heard, understood, and valued. My theoretical approach focuses on assessing each client from a trauma-informed lens while identifying interpersonal needs through a bio-psychosocial lens. Various treatment modalities that I utilize include CBT, DBT, solution-focused therapy, and crisis management techniques.
My name is Christine Dougherty and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over a decade. My focus areas include; working with adolescents, adults, and families. My theoretical approach often depends on the specific needs of the individual. Some common approaches I use include cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and family systems therapy. I encourage clients to start from where they are and break down large goals into smaller more attainable parts.
My name is Christine Dougherty and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over a decade. My focus areas include; working with adolescents, adults, and families. My theoretical approach often depends on the specific needs of the individual. Some common approaches I use include cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and family systems therapy. I encourage clients to start from where they are and break down large goals into smaller more attainable parts.
Finding a safe and supportive space to explore your emotions, experiences, and goals is a powerful step toward healing and growth. In my practice I work with individuals, couples, and families from all cultural backgrounds and sexual orientations seeking connection, balance, and fulfillment. You may be navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or challenges in relationships and self-identity. You want clarity, emotional healing, and practical tools to manage life’s difficulties. Together, we work toward greater self-awareness, stronger relationships, and empowerment rooted in your unique strengths and values.
Finding a safe and supportive space to explore your emotions, experiences, and goals is a powerful step toward healing and growth. In my practice I work with individuals, couples, and families from all cultural backgrounds and sexual orientations seeking connection, balance, and fulfillment. You may be navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or challenges in relationships and self-identity. You want clarity, emotional healing, and practical tools to manage life’s difficulties. Together, we work toward greater self-awareness, stronger relationships, and empowerment rooted in your unique strengths and values.
Hi there, I'm Cirrena! Life can be challenging – we all know that – but the difficulty of these challenges and the way we adapt to them looks different for everyone. Compassion and kindness while working through these challenges is critical to your success in being able to overcome current challenges and build upon your strengths and skills to prepare for the next. My goal as a therapist is to collaborate with you on your goals in a judgment-free environment where you can feel seen and heard, and truly be your authentic self. Together, we create the tools and techniques needed to improve your mental health and wellbeing.
Hi there, I'm Cirrena! Life can be challenging – we all know that – but the difficulty of these challenges and the way we adapt to them looks different for everyone. Compassion and kindness while working through these challenges is critical to your success in being able to overcome current challenges and build upon your strengths and skills to prepare for the next. My goal as a therapist is to collaborate with you on your goals in a judgment-free environment where you can feel seen and heard, and truly be your authentic self. Together, we create the tools and techniques needed to improve your mental health and wellbeing.
The tools that you need to heal are already within you. My main approaches are EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Mindfulness. Mindfulness invites relaxation into the body while EMDR allows you to process the past without feeling triggered. Many of our present problems such as low self esteem, relationship challenges, anxiety, and depression have deep roots within our past. EMDR works to address the problem from its root by challenging the negative messages that we have received from childhood and replacing them with new positive truths. These truths are then integrated into how we view ourselves and the world.
The tools that you need to heal are already within you. My main approaches are EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Mindfulness. Mindfulness invites relaxation into the body while EMDR allows you to process the past without feeling triggered. Many of our present problems such as low self esteem, relationship challenges, anxiety, and depression have deep roots within our past. EMDR works to address the problem from its root by challenging the negative messages that we have received from childhood and replacing them with new positive truths. These truths are then integrated into how we view ourselves and the world.
I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore anxiety, trauma, stress, life transitions, and self-esteem challenges. My approach combines insight, practical tools, and emotional support to help clients feel more grounded, empowered, and connected to themselves. I work with adults navigating anxiety, trauma, stress, emotional overwhelm, self-esteem concerns, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. I especially enjoy supporting high-functioning individuals who feel emotionally exhausted, stuck, or disconnected from themselves.
I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients can explore anxiety, trauma, stress, life transitions, and self-esteem challenges. My approach combines insight, practical tools, and emotional support to help clients feel more grounded, empowered, and connected to themselves. I work with adults navigating anxiety, trauma, stress, emotional overwhelm, self-esteem concerns, relationship challenges, and major life transitions. I especially enjoy supporting high-functioning individuals who feel emotionally exhausted, stuck, or disconnected from themselves.
Hi! I am a warm, supportive, non-judgmental therapist that helps people with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, substance dependence, and relationshIp issues. I believe that therapy is a partnership, and it's through this connection that we are better able to understand our difficulties. I have extensive experience working with creative, intelligent, caring, sensitive people - both as a therapist, and formerly in entertainment as a Television Script Supervisor. By working closely together, my clients build positive self-images, develop healthy relationships, and ultimately lead more harmonious, fulfilling lives.
Hi! I am a warm, supportive, non-judgmental therapist that helps people with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, substance dependence, and relationshIp issues. I believe that therapy is a partnership, and it's through this connection that we are better able to understand our difficulties. I have extensive experience working with creative, intelligent, caring, sensitive people - both as a therapist, and formerly in entertainment as a Television Script Supervisor. By working closely together, my clients build positive self-images, develop healthy relationships, and ultimately lead more harmonious, fulfilling lives.
Hello, my name is Cynthia and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience in a variety of mental health settings. As a first gen Latina daughter of immigrants, I am inspired to offer treatment to others who navigate the journey breaking generational curses such as machismo, marianismo, "de eso no se habla", and healthy boundary setting. Treatment areas in my experience include: depression, anxiety, grief and loss, women's issues, life transitions, cultural identity, self-esteem, self-compassion, and inner child healing.
Hello, my name is Cynthia and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience in a variety of mental health settings. As a first gen Latina daughter of immigrants, I am inspired to offer treatment to others who navigate the journey breaking generational curses such as machismo, marianismo, "de eso no se habla", and healthy boundary setting. Treatment areas in my experience include: depression, anxiety, grief and loss, women's issues, life transitions, cultural identity, self-esteem, self-compassion, and inner child healing.
I'm an informal, low-keyed warm fuzzy type. I deal directly with problems, using CBT, emphasizing support/non-judgment.
I've completed 15 ebooks. The subjects are Assertiveness, How To Change Children's Behavior (Quickly), How to Assess and Treat ADHD (Children and Adults), Self Esteem, Why Relationships Fail, How to diagnose and Treat Anxiety, Anger Management, Types I and II,, Kids and Divorce, Child Visitation and Self-Esteem, How To Change Teenagers Behavior, The Psychology of Procrastination, The Psychology of Guilt, The Psychology of Forgiveness and Weight Loss (Free), The Psychology of All Addictions and How to Diagnose and Treat Mood Disorders.
I'm an informal, low-keyed warm fuzzy type. I deal directly with problems, using CBT, emphasizing support/non-judgment.
I've completed 15 ebooks. The subjects are Assertiveness, How To Change Children's Behavior (Quickly), How to Assess and Treat ADHD (Children and Adults), Self Esteem, Why Relationships Fail, How to diagnose and Treat Anxiety, Anger Management, Types I and II,, Kids and Divorce, Child Visitation and Self-Esteem, How To Change Teenagers Behavior, The Psychology of Procrastination, The Psychology of Guilt, The Psychology of Forgiveness and Weight Loss (Free), The Psychology of All Addictions and How to Diagnose and Treat Mood Disorders.
Are you experiencing anxiety or have history of trauma? I work with individual adults struggling with anxiety, stress, trauma, shame, boundary and self-esteem issues. Offering a spiritual, sensitive, holistic, client-centered approach, I can guide those who are seeking a place of healing and stability. Focusing on your strengths we'll work together to uncover insights and unhealthy patterns to discover solutions and help identify new perspectives for building your resilience. Mental health problems don't define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but, you are NOT the rain.
Are you experiencing anxiety or have history of trauma? I work with individual adults struggling with anxiety, stress, trauma, shame, boundary and self-esteem issues. Offering a spiritual, sensitive, holistic, client-centered approach, I can guide those who are seeking a place of healing and stability. Focusing on your strengths we'll work together to uncover insights and unhealthy patterns to discover solutions and help identify new perspectives for building your resilience. Mental health problems don't define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but, you are NOT the rain.
I prefer to work with adults and couples who are invested in learning more about themselves and their relationships as a means to address the problems they currently experience. I view problems as opportunities for growth and see my role as helping you draw on your personal resources to become the person you wish to be. I have worked with all age groups and a wide range of problems in clinical, university, and private practice settings. Professional activities include teaching and supervising psychology graduate students and professional therapists, writing, editing, conducting workshops and presentations, and serving my profession.
I prefer to work with adults and couples who are invested in learning more about themselves and their relationships as a means to address the problems they currently experience. I view problems as opportunities for growth and see my role as helping you draw on your personal resources to become the person you wish to be. I have worked with all age groups and a wide range of problems in clinical, university, and private practice settings. Professional activities include teaching and supervising psychology graduate students and professional therapists, writing, editing, conducting workshops and presentations, and serving my profession.
I am an Art Therapist Ambassador, California Marriage Family Therapy Association Media Representation and member of North County African American Women's association.
Trish Vernazza, M.A. is an experienced, caring professional who can assist you in achieving a fully integrated life by focusing on your strengths and potential. Achieving a healthy and positive balance in our lives is the key to understanding our own mental, emotional, spiritual, physical health along with personal relationships. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, confidential environment while assisting you to experience, identify and understand the personal barriers which are getting in your way. Working with many clients of many ethnic and culture backgrounds and alternative lifestyles I provide a environment that helps develop personal insight.
I am an Art Therapist Ambassador, California Marriage Family Therapy Association Media Representation and member of North County African American Women's association.
Trish Vernazza, M.A. is an experienced, caring professional who can assist you in achieving a fully integrated life by focusing on your strengths and potential. Achieving a healthy and positive balance in our lives is the key to understanding our own mental, emotional, spiritual, physical health along with personal relationships. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, confidential environment while assisting you to experience, identify and understand the personal barriers which are getting in your way. Working with many clients of many ethnic and culture backgrounds and alternative lifestyles I provide a environment that helps develop personal insight.
As an LMFT I have experience working with individuals from all walks of life and various age groups. Therapy does not have to be dry, boring, or scary and it's okay to havre fun in therapy. Although I may not have the same experiences as you, however, I know what it feels like to make mistakes, experience hurt, love, loss, pain and fear. I also know what it's like to rebuild myself and have success again. Everyone experiences a range of beliefs, thoughts, feelings, emotions, and situations that shape and mold us. Therefore, working with people in their time of need motivates me to assist them in finding balance in their lives.
As an LMFT I have experience working with individuals from all walks of life and various age groups. Therapy does not have to be dry, boring, or scary and it's okay to havre fun in therapy. Although I may not have the same experiences as you, however, I know what it feels like to make mistakes, experience hurt, love, loss, pain and fear. I also know what it's like to rebuild myself and have success again. Everyone experiences a range of beliefs, thoughts, feelings, emotions, and situations that shape and mold us. Therefore, working with people in their time of need motivates me to assist them in finding balance in their lives.
More Therapists Nearby
Congratulations on your decision to face issues that have hindered you from discovering your personal strengths . My name is Juanda Green, and I am honored to serve in the mental health profession. I believe everyone has divine given qualities that must not be stifled by depression, anxiety, fear, or low self-esteem. I offer therapeutic support by providing psychoeducation, and evidence-based treatment interventions to help you gain self- awareness, improve relationships, and increase self-esteem. I enjoy working with individuals and couples.
Congratulations on your decision to face issues that have hindered you from discovering your personal strengths . My name is Juanda Green, and I am honored to serve in the mental health profession. I believe everyone has divine given qualities that must not be stifled by depression, anxiety, fear, or low self-esteem. I offer therapeutic support by providing psychoeducation, and evidence-based treatment interventions to help you gain self- awareness, improve relationships, and increase self-esteem. I enjoy working with individuals and couples.
My ideal clients are young adults and adults navigating anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, self-esteem concerns, or feeling stuck. They may be adjusting to career changes, managing overwhelming emotions, or seeking healthier ways to cope and grow. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to each individual's needs. Together, we'll build on your strengths, develop practical coping skills, and gain insight into patterns that may be holding you back so you can move forward with greater confidence, resilience, and self-compassion.
My ideal clients are young adults and adults navigating anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, self-esteem concerns, or feeling stuck. They may be adjusting to career changes, managing overwhelming emotions, or seeking healthier ways to cope and grow. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to each individual's needs. Together, we'll build on your strengths, develop practical coping skills, and gain insight into patterns that may be holding you back so you can move forward with greater confidence, resilience, and self-compassion.
I think that asking for support is pretty courageous and maybe even a little scary. Trusting that someone can be objective and supportive is hard for anyone, but this can be especially hard when something about your life experiences has made it difficult to trust (even) yourself. Maybe you struggle with making decisions. Maybe past or present trauma has left you feeling depressed or anxious or both. Or maybe you don’t know why you feel the way you feel or what causes you to do the things you do. I understand, from a very deep and personal way, what it’s like to feel like you are not the best version of yourself.
I think that asking for support is pretty courageous and maybe even a little scary. Trusting that someone can be objective and supportive is hard for anyone, but this can be especially hard when something about your life experiences has made it difficult to trust (even) yourself. Maybe you struggle with making decisions. Maybe past or present trauma has left you feeling depressed or anxious or both. Or maybe you don’t know why you feel the way you feel or what causes you to do the things you do. I understand, from a very deep and personal way, what it’s like to feel like you are not the best version of yourself.
Offering Social Skills and DBT groups! Are you feeling misunderstood? Confused? Judged? Are you a teenager needing a voice? Any sexual or gender identity concerns? Are you a parent needing a few more tools to better manage the family? Do you need support communicating with your child/family? Individual or family therapy is an effective avenue in which to explore such issues openly without judgment. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with much experience working with children, adults and their families. I am comfortable exploring touchy subjects with an open mind and no judgments!
Offering Social Skills and DBT groups! Are you feeling misunderstood? Confused? Judged? Are you a teenager needing a voice? Any sexual or gender identity concerns? Are you a parent needing a few more tools to better manage the family? Do you need support communicating with your child/family? Individual or family therapy is an effective avenue in which to explore such issues openly without judgment. I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with much experience working with children, adults and their families. I am comfortable exploring touchy subjects with an open mind and no judgments!
Many individuals I work with are high-functioning adults who appear capable on the outside yet feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, or burnout. They often carry significant responsibility and hold themselves to high standards, struggling quietly with overthinking, emotional fatigue, or unresolved stress. Many desire therapy that honors their faith and integrates spiritual values with clinical care. They seek steadiness, clarity, and sustainable healing that strengthens both their emotional well-being and spiritual foundation.
Many individuals I work with are high-functioning adults who appear capable on the outside yet feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, or burnout. They often carry significant responsibility and hold themselves to high standards, struggling quietly with overthinking, emotional fatigue, or unresolved stress. Many desire therapy that honors their faith and integrates spiritual values with clinical care. They seek steadiness, clarity, and sustainable healing that strengthens both their emotional well-being and spiritual foundation.
See more therapy options for Vista
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Vista
- Carlsbad
- Del Mar
- Encinitas
- Escondido
- Fallbrook
- La Jolla
- Oceanside
- Poway
- Rancho Santa Fe
- San Marcos
- Solana Beach
- Temecula
FAQ - Black and African American Counselling
As an African American, why might I wish to see a therapist who is African American?
Working with an African American therapist can often mean that you start from a place of shared understanding with a therapist rather than having to explain your experience from scratch. A therapist who shares your racial identity is more likely to understand the specific pressures shaping your mental health, including navigating racism, cultural identity, and the overall experience of being Black in the United States. They are also more likely to understand the role that family, community, and cultural expectations play in your life without requiring a lengthy explanation. This shared foundation can create a greater sense of safety in the therapeutic relationship and make it easier to open up at the start of therapy.
Are there Black therapists who specialize in working with Black men or Black women?
Yes, many Black therapists have specific experience working with Black men or Black women. While therapists who work with Black clients broadly address concerns relevant to all genders, like anxiety or depression, those with a gender-specific focus are equipped to work with you on the particular ways that race and gender may intersect. For example, some therapists may specialize in working with Black women on topics like body image or maternal mental health, while other therapists may work with Black men on topics such as relationships or masculinity.
Do Black therapists offer marriage and couples counseling?
Yes, many Black therapists are trained in couples and marriage counseling and can work with partners navigating a wide range of relationship challenges. Therapists who identify as Black may have a better understanding of the cultural dynamics surrounding marriage, family roles, and conflict that are specific to African American communities and can work with you and your partner without making assumptions about your background.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with Black clients?
The initial consultation, which is typically a brief phone or video call, is the right time to raise a therapist’s experience working with Black clients. You can ask specific questions, such as "Do you have experience working with Black clients?" or more broad questions, such as "How do you approach cultural identity in your practice?". During the initial consultation, you can also ask whether they have undertaken training in cultural competence and how they would handle a situation where a cultural misunderstanding arose in therapy. A therapist who responds to these questions thoughtfully and without defensiveness is a good sign they are equipped to work with you effectively.
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.