Black and African American Therapists in Chicago, IL
My specialties include couples therapy, sex therapy, and therapy with individuals and couples who identify as Black and/or multiracial.
I believe that problems are best understood in the context of relationships - with loved ones, with intimate partners, and with oneself. Perhaps you are noticing room for improvement in one or in multiple relationships, or perhaps you have a strong desire for increased understanding of yourself and others. It takes a great deal of insight and strength to even begin this journey towards greater harmony. My hope as a clinician is to help foster within you a sense of renewed curiosity, compassion, and hope as you undertake this journey.
My specialties include couples therapy, sex therapy, and therapy with individuals and couples who identify as Black and/or multiracial.
I believe that problems are best understood in the context of relationships - with loved ones, with intimate partners, and with oneself. Perhaps you are noticing room for improvement in one or in multiple relationships, or perhaps you have a strong desire for increased understanding of yourself and others. It takes a great deal of insight and strength to even begin this journey towards greater harmony. My hope as a clinician is to help foster within you a sense of renewed curiosity, compassion, and hope as you undertake this journey.
Kojo Ngoro Psychotherapy, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Black, male-identified therapist who takes an Afrocentric trauma-informed approach to my work with the African diaspora and provides trauma-informed care to my clients who do not identify with this group.
You are not broken or in need of repair. The fact that you have arrived in this space in the midst of social injustice, unrest, and day-to-day living is a testament to your resilience. Whether you would like to become more proactive with your mental health, learn how to navigate racial trauma, or learn coping skills and techniques for managing stress and anxiety, we can work together to accomplish your goals.
I am a Black, male-identified therapist who takes an Afrocentric trauma-informed approach to my work with the African diaspora and provides trauma-informed care to my clients who do not identify with this group.
You are not broken or in need of repair. The fact that you have arrived in this space in the midst of social injustice, unrest, and day-to-day living is a testament to your resilience. Whether you would like to become more proactive with your mental health, learn how to navigate racial trauma, or learn coping skills and techniques for managing stress and anxiety, we can work together to accomplish your goals.
I have several years of experience providing therapy and advocacy services to sexual assault survivors. I also have experience working with women, men, couples, LGBTQIA+ populations, and teens. My experience includes working with Post-Partum Depression, intimacy related issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal/relational issues, and day to day stressors. I am particularly passionate about working with Black and Brown people, fat folks (with a body-positive lenses), LGBTQIA+ identities, and non-monogamous/polyamorous communities. This is a kink, BDSM, ENM, and sex work friendly and affirming space for all.
I have several years of experience providing therapy and advocacy services to sexual assault survivors. I also have experience working with women, men, couples, LGBTQIA+ populations, and teens. My experience includes working with Post-Partum Depression, intimacy related issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal/relational issues, and day to day stressors. I am particularly passionate about working with Black and Brown people, fat folks (with a body-positive lenses), LGBTQIA+ identities, and non-monogamous/polyamorous communities. This is a kink, BDSM, ENM, and sex work friendly and affirming space for all.
As a Black woman, I prioritize cultural humility, anti-racism, and gender affirmation in my practice, highlighting how systemic inequalities affect our paths to wellness.
I am passionate about working with teens, adults, couples, and families. I aim to create a collaborative, empowering space that fosters self-discovery and vulnerability. I believe in tailoring treatment to your unique needs using evidence-based practices rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. With transparency and empathy, I hope our therapeutic relationship is a vehicle for healing that centers community and emphasizes your strengths.
As a Black woman, I prioritize cultural humility, anti-racism, and gender affirmation in my practice, highlighting how systemic inequalities affect our paths to wellness.
I am passionate about working with teens, adults, couples, and families. I aim to create a collaborative, empowering space that fosters self-discovery and vulnerability. I believe in tailoring treatment to your unique needs using evidence-based practices rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. With transparency and empathy, I hope our therapeutic relationship is a vehicle for healing that centers community and emphasizes your strengths.
As a black, mixed-race, pansexual, cisgender woman and part of other pleasure-focused communities, I know from experience how important it is to create a safe, empowering and affirming therapy space that will foster trust and allow us to acknowledge the nuances and beauties of your intersecting identities and unique inner self. I enjoy working with adults from diverse backgrounds and am committed to understanding your unique experience.
As a black, mixed-race, pansexual, cisgender woman and part of other pleasure-focused communities, I know from experience how important it is to create a safe, empowering and affirming therapy space that will foster trust and allow us to acknowledge the nuances and beauties of your intersecting identities and unique inner self. I enjoy working with adults from diverse backgrounds and am committed to understanding your unique experience.
Dr. Tanye' S Tyler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MBA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I'm here to offer support using various evidence-based practices and frameworks, especially in addressing issues that affect Black, Indigenous, and other persons of color, as well as the LGBTQIA+ community. I work with individuals, families, couples, and groups aged 6-80. However, there may be times when I might not have the specific knowledge and resources needed to provide you with the best care. If you're currently dealing with issues related to Eating Disorders, Religion, Family/Domestic Violence, or Anger, I encourage you to explore other options for assistance.
I'm here to offer support using various evidence-based practices and frameworks, especially in addressing issues that affect Black, Indigenous, and other persons of color, as well as the LGBTQIA+ community. I work with individuals, families, couples, and groups aged 6-80. However, there may be times when I might not have the specific knowledge and resources needed to provide you with the best care. If you're currently dealing with issues related to Eating Disorders, Religion, Family/Domestic Violence, or Anger, I encourage you to explore other options for assistance.
I welcome individuals from all walks of life to engage in therapy with me, and I have a specialized focus on the unique issues of LGBTQ+ folx, college students, Black women and individuals of color.
One of the pillars of a fulfilling life is the ability to be our authentic selves. Sometimes obstacles, hardships, and missteps cause us to forgo authenticity to survive. As a result, we may feel stuck, lost, or alone in our struggles. As a therapist, I see myself as a partner to my clients in their journey toward healing and growth. My approach is holistic - I consider the whole person and their context in everything I do, and I work collaboratively to ensure that each session feels personalized and effective. I provide a safe space to process where you are and begin to make progress toward where you'd like to be.
I welcome individuals from all walks of life to engage in therapy with me, and I have a specialized focus on the unique issues of LGBTQ+ folx, college students, Black women and individuals of color.
One of the pillars of a fulfilling life is the ability to be our authentic selves. Sometimes obstacles, hardships, and missteps cause us to forgo authenticity to survive. As a result, we may feel stuck, lost, or alone in our struggles. As a therapist, I see myself as a partner to my clients in their journey toward healing and growth. My approach is holistic - I consider the whole person and their context in everything I do, and I work collaboratively to ensure that each session feels personalized and effective. I provide a safe space to process where you are and begin to make progress toward where you'd like to be.
While I treat individuals from all socioeconomic, racial and cultural backgrounds, I have dedicated my career to providing quality therapeutic services to marginalized communities, including black single-mothers, justice-involved individuals and those that struggle with navigating the daily challenges faced by living in an urban environment.
I'm delighted that you have encountered my profile and taken an active, and courageous step in your healing journey. I bring a down-to-earth, approachable presence to therapy and place the utmost importance on fostering a warm and friendly, yet professional relationship with you. Developing a strong therapeutic alliance is the foundation that will support you as we explore pathways toward your healing, develop adaptive and functional coping skills, improve your emotional regulation, and help you experience a fulfilling life, rather than just exist.
While I treat individuals from all socioeconomic, racial and cultural backgrounds, I have dedicated my career to providing quality therapeutic services to marginalized communities, including black single-mothers, justice-involved individuals and those that struggle with navigating the daily challenges faced by living in an urban environment.
I'm delighted that you have encountered my profile and taken an active, and courageous step in your healing journey. I bring a down-to-earth, approachable presence to therapy and place the utmost importance on fostering a warm and friendly, yet professional relationship with you. Developing a strong therapeutic alliance is the foundation that will support you as we explore pathways toward your healing, develop adaptive and functional coping skills, improve your emotional regulation, and help you experience a fulfilling life, rather than just exist.
Jalesia Syas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I provide authentic support, driven by a deep commitment to breaking stigmas, educating, and empowering marginalized Black and Brown communities, with a particular focus on youth sexual health.
Are you a parent seeking guidance as your teenager navigates puberty? An adult in need of authentic support? A veteran transitioning to civilian life? Do you crave a safe, non-judgmental space for self-exploration? Everyone deserves a village. As a Black-Woman, lesbian licensed therapist and veteran with over 5 years of dedicated clinical and non-profit experience working with youth in care, my calling is to guide individuals across life stages. However, my profound commitment and unwavering passion are devoted to serving marginalized communities through an authentic, spiritual, and holistic approach.
I provide authentic support, driven by a deep commitment to breaking stigmas, educating, and empowering marginalized Black and Brown communities, with a particular focus on youth sexual health.
Are you a parent seeking guidance as your teenager navigates puberty? An adult in need of authentic support? A veteran transitioning to civilian life? Do you crave a safe, non-judgmental space for self-exploration? Everyone deserves a village. As a Black-Woman, lesbian licensed therapist and veteran with over 5 years of dedicated clinical and non-profit experience working with youth in care, my calling is to guide individuals across life stages. However, my profound commitment and unwavering passion are devoted to serving marginalized communities through an authentic, spiritual, and holistic approach.
Coming to therapy as a black woman is hard, and it's even harder changing the trajectory of your family.
Have you noticed that there are many people in your family who keep secrets or struggle with expressing emotions? Have you noticed that you have similar traits or even health issues similar to older family members? This is intergenerational trauma. The way emotions are handled, health struggles and even stress can be passed down to younger generations. The Self Inside is the space for black women to heal from intergenerational trauma so they can not only change their life but the lives of future generations.
Coming to therapy as a black woman is hard, and it's even harder changing the trajectory of your family.
Have you noticed that there are many people in your family who keep secrets or struggle with expressing emotions? Have you noticed that you have similar traits or even health issues similar to older family members? This is intergenerational trauma. The way emotions are handled, health struggles and even stress can be passed down to younger generations. The Self Inside is the space for black women to heal from intergenerational trauma so they can not only change their life but the lives of future generations.
I strive to empower my clients through radical compassion, curiosity, collaboration and gentle redirection to help them feel confident in navigating life’s challenges. I aim to create a soft landing place and an opportunity for those who experience the brunt of systemic oppression—BIPOC ( Black Indigenous People of Color), poor, women, queer, trans, diversely abled, and in larger bodies to name a few —who’ve felt rejected, judged, misunderstood, invisible, and outcasted because of their identities—to lay down their armor, tend to the wounds they’ve sustained, and further uncover who they are when they aren’t in survival mode.
I strive to empower my clients through radical compassion, curiosity, collaboration and gentle redirection to help them feel confident in navigating life’s challenges. I aim to create a soft landing place and an opportunity for those who experience the brunt of systemic oppression—BIPOC ( Black Indigenous People of Color), poor, women, queer, trans, diversely abled, and in larger bodies to name a few —who’ve felt rejected, judged, misunderstood, invisible, and outcasted because of their identities—to lay down their armor, tend to the wounds they’ve sustained, and further uncover who they are when they aren’t in survival mode.
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Sara Marsha
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
I have been grounded in supporting Black, Indigenous, and people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, and other intersectional identities in navigating points of rupture, disconnected desires, and feeling stuck. I strive to create a safe, nurturing, and welcoming therapy space that brings clients closer to their healed self. As an individual and relationship therapist, creating an inclusive environment for gender-affirming, ENM, poly, sex-positive, and BDSM & kink-affirming care is part of my practice.
I have been grounded in supporting Black, Indigenous, and people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, and other intersectional identities in navigating points of rupture, disconnected desires, and feeling stuck. I strive to create a safe, nurturing, and welcoming therapy space that brings clients closer to their healed self. As an individual and relationship therapist, creating an inclusive environment for gender-affirming, ENM, poly, sex-positive, and BDSM & kink-affirming care is part of my practice.
My areas of focus are on Black/ African American people, sexuality, dating/ relationships therapy (traditional/non-traditional), family therapy, anxiety, life transitions, identity, religion/spirituality, & racial/cultural concerns. I believe in fostering a client centered, collaborative, genuine, & empathic relationship with clients. The hope is that my clients reach a space of peace and be liberated to do “their work”.
My areas of focus are on Black/ African American people, sexuality, dating/ relationships therapy (traditional/non-traditional), family therapy, anxiety, life transitions, identity, religion/spirituality, & racial/cultural concerns. I believe in fostering a client centered, collaborative, genuine, & empathic relationship with clients. The hope is that my clients reach a space of peace and be liberated to do “their work”.
I am Tony Johnson, a pre-licensed professional with a PhD in Social Work and an MPH in community health interventions. With over 15 years of experience as a social justice leader and mental health advocate, I specialize in serving the LGBTQ and Black and Brown communities. My focus areas include resilience, psychological self-sufficiency, grief, and art therapy, aimed at empowering marginalized groups.
I am Tony Johnson, a pre-licensed professional with a PhD in Social Work and an MPH in community health interventions. With over 15 years of experience as a social justice leader and mental health advocate, I specialize in serving the LGBTQ and Black and Brown communities. My focus areas include resilience, psychological self-sufficiency, grief, and art therapy, aimed at empowering marginalized groups.
Hailing from the vibrant city of Chicago, IL, Talia Stewart brings a decade of experience in education to her role as a Virtual Mental Health Consultant at Quantum. Holding a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Talia has dedicated her career to nurturing the mental well-being of individuals, particularly within the Black and Brown communities.
Hailing from the vibrant city of Chicago, IL, Talia Stewart brings a decade of experience in education to her role as a Virtual Mental Health Consultant at Quantum. Holding a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Talia has dedicated her career to nurturing the mental well-being of individuals, particularly within the Black and Brown communities.
We face many challenges and stages in life’s journey and navigating through its different phases can sometimes be a difficult process. I focuse on supporting clients through this difficult process and collaborating with a strong therapeutic relationship. The beauty of therapy is that it will look different for each person and will be tailored to specific needs. I also specialize in facilitating sustainable empowerment and personal growth for BIPOC ( Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community.
We face many challenges and stages in life’s journey and navigating through its different phases can sometimes be a difficult process. I focuse on supporting clients through this difficult process and collaborating with a strong therapeutic relationship. The beauty of therapy is that it will look different for each person and will be tailored to specific needs. I also specialize in facilitating sustainable empowerment and personal growth for BIPOC ( Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) community.
As a Black gay male therapist, I bring a deeply personal understanding of the isolation and challenges faced by individuals with marginalized identities. My own journey and experience with clients have given me deep insights into the struggle of feeling voiceless and the impact of being misunderstood, and feeling unheard, which fuels my commitment to creating a therapeutic space where you are truly seen and valued. I have a passion in working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ clients, I specialize in high conflict couples, trauma, grief, socio-cultural issues, identity development, and managing life transitions.
As a Black gay male therapist, I bring a deeply personal understanding of the isolation and challenges faced by individuals with marginalized identities. My own journey and experience with clients have given me deep insights into the struggle of feeling voiceless and the impact of being misunderstood, and feeling unheard, which fuels my commitment to creating a therapeutic space where you are truly seen and valued. I have a passion in working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ clients, I specialize in high conflict couples, trauma, grief, socio-cultural issues, identity development, and managing life transitions.
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 know too well the pressures that come with being high-achieving, having marginalized identities, and simply existing in our bodies as people of color. Though each client has unique goals for their therapy journey, I believe that everyone deserves at least one space where they can fully be themselves. I feel most alive when working with clients who hold these identities and are navigating issues of anxiety, self-esteem, Gifted Kid Burnout, relationship challenges, or stress.
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 know too well the pressures that come with being high-achieving, having marginalized identities, and simply existing in our bodies as people of color. Though each client has unique goals for their therapy journey, I believe that everyone deserves at least one space where they can fully be themselves. I feel most alive when working with clients who hold these identities and are navigating issues of anxiety, self-esteem, Gifted Kid Burnout, relationship challenges, or stress.
The bravest thing you can do is begin to understand your own story. As a black woman, a sister, a daughter and a mother; I too have been in your shoes. Throughout life we are told we have to remain strong and we never get the opportunity to not be the strong one for once. This causes built up anxiety, depression and negative emotions which are then taken out on the ones we love the most. Are you ready to face the past trauma and experiences you have not had the opportunity to process? If so, I am the right therapist for you.
The bravest thing you can do is begin to understand your own story. As a black woman, a sister, a daughter and a mother; I too have been in your shoes. Throughout life we are told we have to remain strong and we never get the opportunity to not be the strong one for once. This causes built up anxiety, depression and negative emotions which are then taken out on the ones we love the most. Are you ready to face the past trauma and experiences you have not had the opportunity to process? If so, I am the right therapist for you.
Navigating life as a black woman comes with many unique challenges.
I'm so glad you're here! I am a licensed clinical professional counselor from Chicago IL. I have 15 years of experience providing therapy to people such as caregivers of loved ones living with Alzheimer's disease, women, BIPOC and the LGBTQIA+ community. Do you want to get rid of imposter syndrome or learn how to love yourself? Connect with me to learn how to get past barriers to healing. I have experience working with people attempting to cope with many concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief, relational issues, career & work situations, self-esteem and caregiver stress. Let's unlock your potential, together.
Navigating life as a black woman comes with many unique challenges.
I'm so glad you're here! I am a licensed clinical professional counselor from Chicago IL. I have 15 years of experience providing therapy to people such as caregivers of loved ones living with Alzheimer's disease, women, BIPOC and the LGBTQIA+ community. Do you want to get rid of imposter syndrome or learn how to love yourself? Connect with me to learn how to get past barriers to healing. I have experience working with people attempting to cope with many concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, grief, relational issues, career & work situations, self-esteem and caregiver stress. Let's unlock your potential, together.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Bellwood
- Berwyn
- Cicero
- Evergreen Park
- Forest Park
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Lincolnwood
- Oak Lawn
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Westchester
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.