Black and African American Therapists in River North, Chicago, IL
As a zillennial (member of both Millennials and Gen Z) Black woman, I love working with women, nonbinary femmes, and girls of color ages 16-35.
I see my work as holding up a mirror to reflect your inner workings and offer support to create a new path forward. I leverage the power of the therapeutic relationship to support the regulation of your nervous system and will give you tools to identify your needs, connect with your body, and create sustainable change in your life.
As a zillennial (member of both Millennials and Gen Z) Black woman, I love working with women, nonbinary femmes, and girls of color ages 16-35.
I see my work as holding up a mirror to reflect your inner workings and offer support to create a new path forward. I leverage the power of the therapeutic relationship to support the regulation of your nervous system and will give you tools to identify your needs, connect with your body, and create sustainable change in your life.
Leon Abbey
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
1 Endorsed
River North, Chicago, IL 60611
I deeply value the unique journey of every individual and couple I work with. I believe that understanding your own story and experiences can be transformative, and I’m here to support you in that process. My goal is to create a warm, collaborative space where you feel safe and understood, respecting your identity and choices throughout our work together. While I draw from various therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral, person centered, strength based, solution-focused, and Gottman method for couples therapy, I frequently use the EMDR approach to address and resolve various distressing experiences.
I deeply value the unique journey of every individual and couple I work with. I believe that understanding your own story and experiences can be transformative, and I’m here to support you in that process. My goal is to create a warm, collaborative space where you feel safe and understood, respecting your identity and choices throughout our work together. While I draw from various therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral, person centered, strength based, solution-focused, and Gottman method for couples therapy, I frequently use the EMDR approach to address and resolve various distressing experiences.
I enjoy working with children/teens, adults, couples, and families from all backgrounds. My clinical interests are varied, and to name just a few, include: Mood Disorders, Relationships, Identity, Race, Life Transitions, Sports Psychology/Performance, Men's Issues, and Trauma. My approach is integrative yet it is rooted in existential psychotherapy, an attentiveness to diversity and identity, and a focus on the impact of systems on one's functioning. Outside of work I practice self-care by working out and practicing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, reading, watching History docs, kicking it with friends, collecting books/vinyl, and exploring.
I enjoy working with children/teens, adults, couples, and families from all backgrounds. My clinical interests are varied, and to name just a few, include: Mood Disorders, Relationships, Identity, Race, Life Transitions, Sports Psychology/Performance, Men's Issues, and Trauma. My approach is integrative yet it is rooted in existential psychotherapy, an attentiveness to diversity and identity, and a focus on the impact of systems on one's functioning. Outside of work I practice self-care by working out and practicing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, reading, watching History docs, kicking it with friends, collecting books/vinyl, and exploring.
I work with those who feel burned out, overwhelmed, or stuck in an “always doing, never resting” cycle—especially those who struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, self-criticism, or the belief that they can’t make mistakes. Growing up and navigating my twenties, I learned to aim for perfection as a way to avoid criticism and judgment. Over time, that pressure caught up with me and led to burnout, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. Through my own journey, I came to understand just how much our past experiences shape how we show up in our lives today. Fortunately, this has helped me truly understand what clients are going through.
I work with those who feel burned out, overwhelmed, or stuck in an “always doing, never resting” cycle—especially those who struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, self-criticism, or the belief that they can’t make mistakes. Growing up and navigating my twenties, I learned to aim for perfection as a way to avoid criticism and judgment. Over time, that pressure caught up with me and led to burnout, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. Through my own journey, I came to understand just how much our past experiences shape how we show up in our lives today. Fortunately, this has helped me truly understand what clients are going through.
Congratulations on taking this step toward caring for your mental health. I'm Dr. April, and I specialize in helping clients work through trauma and PTSD, women’s issues, and depression using a trauma-informed, relational approach. My work centers on helping you reconnect with your authentic self by exploring your relationship with yourself, others, and the world. I strive to create a judgment-free space of safety, acceptance, and empowerment where you can build confidence, strengthen your voice, and navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and resilience.
Congratulations on taking this step toward caring for your mental health. I'm Dr. April, and I specialize in helping clients work through trauma and PTSD, women’s issues, and depression using a trauma-informed, relational approach. My work centers on helping you reconnect with your authentic self by exploring your relationship with yourself, others, and the world. I strive to create a judgment-free space of safety, acceptance, and empowerment where you can build confidence, strengthen your voice, and navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and resilience.
I work with individuals navigating life transitions, trauma, and grief that impact mental, emotional, spiritual, financial, and physical well-being. My trauma- and grief-informed approach integrates CBT and spiritually responsive care to help clients understand how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are shaped by loss and adversity. Therapy focuses on emotional safety, meaning-making, and practical coping skills that support healing and resilience. I partner with open-minded, committed clients seeking growth, validation, and empowerment as they reconnect with purpose and build the capacity to face life with clarity and strength.
I work with individuals navigating life transitions, trauma, and grief that impact mental, emotional, spiritual, financial, and physical well-being. My trauma- and grief-informed approach integrates CBT and spiritually responsive care to help clients understand how thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are shaped by loss and adversity. Therapy focuses on emotional safety, meaning-making, and practical coping skills that support healing and resilience. I partner with open-minded, committed clients seeking growth, validation, and empowerment as they reconnect with purpose and build the capacity to face life with clarity and strength.
Hi I'm Lee,
Are you tired of feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the life you know you're meant to live? If self-doubt, emotional pain, or your inner critic has been holding you back, you don't have to face it alone. I'm here to guide you toward the transformation you deserve.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist, I specialize in treating complex trauma, depression, anxiety, codependency, and suicidal ideation. If you've been weighed down by overwhelming emotions, loud self-criticism, or past trauma, healing is possible—and it’s closer than you think.
Hi I'm Lee,
Are you tired of feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the life you know you're meant to live? If self-doubt, emotional pain, or your inner critic has been holding you back, you don't have to face it alone. I'm here to guide you toward the transformation you deserve.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Registered Art Therapist, I specialize in treating complex trauma, depression, anxiety, codependency, and suicidal ideation. If you've been weighed down by overwhelming emotions, loud self-criticism, or past trauma, healing is possible—and it’s closer than you think.
You deserve to feel happy and have a sense of purpose. I have worked with clients moving through a variety of issues for over 13 years. I've worked closely with individuals to clarify goals for client's to grow into their best-self. Communication and Social Skills are two areas of practice I have focused on for over 10 years. I have supported clients with special needs, medical issues, as well as people looking for general direction/advice around life issues.
You deserve to feel happy and have a sense of purpose. I have worked with clients moving through a variety of issues for over 13 years. I've worked closely with individuals to clarify goals for client's to grow into their best-self. Communication and Social Skills are two areas of practice I have focused on for over 10 years. I have supported clients with special needs, medical issues, as well as people looking for general direction/advice around life issues.
Our ideal client is done performing. They’re tired of being quiet, agreeable, polite—and ended up invisible, dismissed, and carrying everyone else’s weight while their own wounds deepened. They may face trauma, depression, addiction, or identity struggles, but underneath it all, they’re exhausted by silence and shame.
What they want isn’t complicated: Freedom. Freedom from lies about who they are. Freedom from survival strategies that once saved them but now destroy them. Freedom to live loud, reclaim joy, build real relationships, and finally believe that healing belongs to them.
Our ideal client is done performing. They’re tired of being quiet, agreeable, polite—and ended up invisible, dismissed, and carrying everyone else’s weight while their own wounds deepened. They may face trauma, depression, addiction, or identity struggles, but underneath it all, they’re exhausted by silence and shame.
What they want isn’t complicated: Freedom. Freedom from lies about who they are. Freedom from survival strategies that once saved them but now destroy them. Freedom to live loud, reclaim joy, build real relationships, and finally believe that healing belongs to them.
I provide compassionate care with practical strategies using approaches backed by research. I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, binge eating, and PTSD/trauma. I am passionate about working with BIPOC clients. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approaches. I use a collaborative and nonjudgmental approach. I tailor my approach to each client’s unique needs and preferences, honoring their individual experiences and cultural identities.
I provide compassionate care with practical strategies using approaches backed by research. I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, binge eating, and PTSD/trauma. I am passionate about working with BIPOC clients. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approaches. I use a collaborative and nonjudgmental approach. I tailor my approach to each client’s unique needs and preferences, honoring their individual experiences and cultural identities.
“If you want to go quickly, go alone. But, if you want to go far, go together.” Life is like an arena, and sometimes we want to throw in the towel. Sometimes we don’t see ourselves where we want to be in our lives or careers. We have habits we can’t break. Our relationships leave us frustrated. But… We Always Have A Choice! It’s my mission to help you learn to take the reins of your life. Together, we will maximize your chances for success, your sense of fulfillment, and your freedom to choose for yourself.
“If you want to go quickly, go alone. But, if you want to go far, go together.” Life is like an arena, and sometimes we want to throw in the towel. Sometimes we don’t see ourselves where we want to be in our lives or careers. We have habits we can’t break. Our relationships leave us frustrated. But… We Always Have A Choice! It’s my mission to help you learn to take the reins of your life. Together, we will maximize your chances for success, your sense of fulfillment, and your freedom to choose for yourself.
Are the challenges of life taking too much out of you? Are you having a hard time managing chronic stress, anxiety, depression, or the effects of trauma? Are you a person (regardless of your cultural background) that has experienced trauma specific to isms (racism, sexism, ableism, etc...), abuse, or the poverty experience? Are you seeking someone that can help you give voice to your unique experiences? In my therapy sessions I believe you will be able to find your voice, release pent-up emotions, identify and examine your strengths and needs, experience restoration and revitalization, and regain power and control over your life.
Are the challenges of life taking too much out of you? Are you having a hard time managing chronic stress, anxiety, depression, or the effects of trauma? Are you a person (regardless of your cultural background) that has experienced trauma specific to isms (racism, sexism, ableism, etc...), abuse, or the poverty experience? Are you seeking someone that can help you give voice to your unique experiences? In my therapy sessions I believe you will be able to find your voice, release pent-up emotions, identify and examine your strengths and needs, experience restoration and revitalization, and regain power and control over your life.
Let me guess, you are feeling overwhelmed by relationship or divorce decisions and want clarity, stability, and a plan. You are unsure whether to stay or leave, struggling to co-parent effectively, or hoping to rebuild connection with your partner(s). You want calm guidance, structured support, and an expert who understands the emotional and practical layers of these transitions. Your goal is to feel grounded, make confident decisions, and create healthier patterns for yourself and your family.
Let me guess, you are feeling overwhelmed by relationship or divorce decisions and want clarity, stability, and a plan. You are unsure whether to stay or leave, struggling to co-parent effectively, or hoping to rebuild connection with your partner(s). You want calm guidance, structured support, and an expert who understands the emotional and practical layers of these transitions. Your goal is to feel grounded, make confident decisions, and create healthier patterns for yourself and your family.
Anisa Brazier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
River North, Chicago, IL 60654
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that everyone deserves a space where they can center their needs, explore their experiences, and move toward healing in a way that feels authentic to them. In a world that often discourages emotional expression, particularly for those from historically marginalized communities, I strive to create a therapeutic environment where clients feel affirmed, empowered, and challenged to explore the roots of their emotions. My approach is grounded in the belief that healing happens from the inside out and is strengthened by community, connection, and collaboration.
I believe that everyone deserves a space where they can center their needs, explore their experiences, and move toward healing in a way that feels authentic to them. In a world that often discourages emotional expression, particularly for those from historically marginalized communities, I strive to create a therapeutic environment where clients feel affirmed, empowered, and challenged to explore the roots of their emotions. My approach is grounded in the belief that healing happens from the inside out and is strengthened by community, connection, and collaboration.
My goal is to decolonize and destigmatize mental health by dismantling power dynamics and opening the floor to voices that are often silenced or may fall upon deaf ears. Our commitment to rest and rejuvenation, care for self and community, and untying the connections between self-worth and labor production are acts of resistance. In my work with clients, I offer a space to honor their authentic voice. You will not have to filter and censor your true thoughts and emotions in our sessions, as you may have previously in other settings. Come as you are, and I will meet you there.
My goal is to decolonize and destigmatize mental health by dismantling power dynamics and opening the floor to voices that are often silenced or may fall upon deaf ears. Our commitment to rest and rejuvenation, care for self and community, and untying the connections between self-worth and labor production are acts of resistance. In my work with clients, I offer a space to honor their authentic voice. You will not have to filter and censor your true thoughts and emotions in our sessions, as you may have previously in other settings. Come as you are, and I will meet you there.
My ideal client is often a caregiver, creative, or someone who supports others—like a parent, first responder, or partner of a veteran. They're navigating stress, anxiety, or burnout alongside life transitions like parenthood, career shifts, or chronic health changes. They want clarity, balance, and tools for emotional regulation. Deep down, they seek reconnection to their inner wisdom and peace beneath the noise. They’re not looking to be “fixed,” but to be met with compassion and supported in their growth.
My ideal client is often a caregiver, creative, or someone who supports others—like a parent, first responder, or partner of a veteran. They're navigating stress, anxiety, or burnout alongside life transitions like parenthood, career shifts, or chronic health changes. They want clarity, balance, and tools for emotional regulation. Deep down, they seek reconnection to their inner wisdom and peace beneath the noise. They’re not looking to be “fixed,” but to be met with compassion and supported in their growth.
At our best we are connected. We are connected with ourselves. We believe that the best is in us and that we can live that authentically. We are connected with our families, friends, communities, and societies. There is congruence. I believe that we experience the deepest sorrows and difficulties when there is disconnection. When we are out of sorts, or disconnected, with a part of ourselves, family, friends, communities, or society, there is incongruence. My belief is that by identifying salient disconnections and working towards reconnection that one is on the path towards healing.
At our best we are connected. We are connected with ourselves. We believe that the best is in us and that we can live that authentically. We are connected with our families, friends, communities, and societies. There is congruence. I believe that we experience the deepest sorrows and difficulties when there is disconnection. When we are out of sorts, or disconnected, with a part of ourselves, family, friends, communities, or society, there is incongruence. My belief is that by identifying salient disconnections and working towards reconnection that one is on the path towards healing.
The first question most therapists will ask is "what brings you to therapy?" Well, I have a different question to ask, have you ever found yourself stuck in a loop, replaying the same thoughts over and over? Picture this: an event, a conversation, a stressor, playing on repeat in your mind, leaving you mentally drained with no way out.
The first question most therapists will ask is "what brings you to therapy?" Well, I have a different question to ask, have you ever found yourself stuck in a loop, replaying the same thoughts over and over? Picture this: an event, a conversation, a stressor, playing on repeat in your mind, leaving you mentally drained with no way out.
Are you seeking support from a faith-centered approach to therapy? As a Christian therapist, I can provide support as you navigate any dating and relationship struggles through a religious and spiritual lens. Whether you’re dealing with pressures of modern dating, dealing with anxiety, or hesitant to move toward divorce because of your religion, I can support your faith values while providing you with information and skills to improve your life and relationships.
Are you seeking support from a faith-centered approach to therapy? As a Christian therapist, I can provide support as you navigate any dating and relationship struggles through a religious and spiritual lens. Whether you’re dealing with pressures of modern dating, dealing with anxiety, or hesitant to move toward divorce because of your religion, I can support your faith values while providing you with information and skills to improve your life and relationships.
Currently accepting new clients! Women of color tired of your triggers getting the best of you: I see you. You're ready for support that focuses specifically on you and your needs.
Exhaustion, imposter syndrome, old traumas, living through the same cycles/relationships/lessons over and over...
I help you identify the patterns keeping you stuck and the beliefs that need to elevate. We'll work together to instill hope and build self-worth and trust, processing through past hurts to get you to a life radiating with joy.
You'll gain deep insight around who you really are and finally, real confidence.
Currently accepting new clients! Women of color tired of your triggers getting the best of you: I see you. You're ready for support that focuses specifically on you and your needs.
Exhaustion, imposter syndrome, old traumas, living through the same cycles/relationships/lessons over and over...
I help you identify the patterns keeping you stuck and the beliefs that need to elevate. We'll work together to instill hope and build self-worth and trust, processing through past hurts to get you to a life radiating with joy.
You'll gain deep insight around who you really are and finally, real confidence.
See more therapy options for River North, Chicago
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for River North, Chicago
See More Black and African American TherapistsNearby Searches for River North, Chicago
- Gold Coast
- Greektown
- Loop
- Near Eastside
- Near North Side
- Old Town
- Old Town Triangle
- Printers Row
- River West
- South Loop
- Streeterville
- West Loop
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.