Black and African American Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Brittany Pettiford, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Pettiford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have knowledge in additional areas related to African American psychology.
My approach with clients usually ranges between goal-oriented and psychodynamic. We can address specific areas of improvement non-judgmentally. We can explore early childhood experiences or address traumatic events and how to move forward while challenging negative thoughts and beliefs along the way. With the treatment centered around the client’s needs, I also acknowledge intersections between race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, and other cultural aspects of the client.
I have knowledge in additional areas related to African American psychology.
My approach with clients usually ranges between goal-oriented and psychodynamic. We can address specific areas of improvement non-judgmentally. We can explore early childhood experiences or address traumatic events and how to move forward while challenging negative thoughts and beliefs along the way. With the treatment centered around the client’s needs, I also acknowledge intersections between race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, and other cultural aspects of the client.
(847) 485-1944 View (847) 485-1944
Photo of Jamilia Humphrey, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamilia Humphrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life is filled with challenges that we take on unexpectedly as individuals. Coping with finances, anxiety, stress, health and other matters can allow an individual to feel overwhelmed about the future and or their current state of being. With inflation in the economy and fear of the unknown we all need someone to talk with to navigate through these triumphs’ times. The Self Inside is a safe place for black women to heal from past traumas and everyday burdens.
Life is filled with challenges that we take on unexpectedly as individuals. Coping with finances, anxiety, stress, health and other matters can allow an individual to feel overwhelmed about the future and or their current state of being. With inflation in the economy and fear of the unknown we all need someone to talk with to navigate through these triumphs’ times. The Self Inside is a safe place for black women to heal from past traumas and everyday burdens.
(708) 847-5008 View (708) 847-5008
Photo of Marcia Nickow, PsyD, CADC, CGP, Psychologist
Marcia Nickow
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC, CGP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
I love working with people of all cultures who have histories of trauma and addiction and who want to make pivotal breakthroughs in recovery. I work best with patients who engage honestly, directly and courageously; welcome challenges; and want to thrive. We discover and nurture strengths borne of struggle. I specialize in culturally responsive group treatment of trauma and addiction, relationship issues, family dynamics and multigenerational legacies. I empower patients; we tap into their insight, intellect, creativity and spontaneity. I enthusiastically welcome Black, Brown, Indigenous, and other People of Color to my practice.
I love working with people of all cultures who have histories of trauma and addiction and who want to make pivotal breakthroughs in recovery. I work best with patients who engage honestly, directly and courageously; welcome challenges; and want to thrive. We discover and nurture strengths borne of struggle. I specialize in culturally responsive group treatment of trauma and addiction, relationship issues, family dynamics and multigenerational legacies. I empower patients; we tap into their insight, intellect, creativity and spontaneity. I enthusiastically welcome Black, Brown, Indigenous, and other People of Color to my practice.
(847) 906-2483 View (847) 906-2483
Photo of Rita Sussman, PhD, Psychologist
Rita Sussman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
I'm an experienced,reliable and compassionate psychologist who works with clients to lessen depression and anxiety, gain emotional strength, and work through problems at home and at work. As people learn how their experience has impacted their lives, they gain insight that leads to understanding. As they gain control, they make changes in their relationships and quality of life. I work with children, adolescents and adults who are Caucasian, African-American, of diverse ethnicities nationalities and religions. My experience is that being in therapy with a person who is listening closely to what is happening and how you feel about it is empowering.
I'm an experienced,reliable and compassionate psychologist who works with clients to lessen depression and anxiety, gain emotional strength, and work through problems at home and at work. As people learn how their experience has impacted their lives, they gain insight that leads to understanding. As they gain control, they make changes in their relationships and quality of life. I work with children, adolescents and adults who are Caucasian, African-American, of diverse ethnicities nationalities and religions. My experience is that being in therapy with a person who is listening closely to what is happening and how you feel about it is empowering.
(312) 487-4672 View (312) 487-4672
Photo of LaSonda A. Wilkins-Hines, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaSonda A. Wilkins-Hines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60653
I am an African-American female with a small practice on the south side of Chicago. I received my graduate training in social work from Loyola University Chicago. I received most of my professional training from the University of Chicago Hospitals In-Patient Psychiatric Department, where I worked simultaneously to start my private practice. I have an array of exprience working with adult clients with thought and mood disorders. In addition, I have worked with children - - ranging from 5 to 18 yrs of age, with a diagnosis of conduct, separation anxiety, adjustment, oppositional defiant or disruptive behavior disorders.
I am an African-American female with a small practice on the south side of Chicago. I received my graduate training in social work from Loyola University Chicago. I received most of my professional training from the University of Chicago Hospitals In-Patient Psychiatric Department, where I worked simultaneously to start my private practice. I have an array of exprience working with adult clients with thought and mood disorders. In addition, I have worked with children - - ranging from 5 to 18 yrs of age, with a diagnosis of conduct, separation anxiety, adjustment, oppositional defiant or disruptive behavior disorders.
(773) 312-5575 View (773) 312-5575
Photo of Caressa Chester, Pre-Licensed Professional
Caressa Chester
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Online Only
She works with a diverse number of clients, and as a queer Black woman, her work is focused on BIPOC and LGBTQ adults.
The relationship between client and therapist is unique–you already have everything you need for change inside of you. While working with Caressa, you’ll aim to co-create a relationship and space grounded in trust, vulnerability, and honesty, and she is ready to support your navigation forward.
She works with a diverse number of clients, and as a queer Black woman, her work is focused on BIPOC and LGBTQ adults.
The relationship between client and therapist is unique–you already have everything you need for change inside of you. While working with Caressa, you’ll aim to co-create a relationship and space grounded in trust, vulnerability, and honesty, and she is ready to support your navigation forward.
(872) 331-4639 View (872) 331-4639
Photo of Simeon Washington, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Simeon Washington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
As a Black man, I am passionate about supporting marginalized individuals who navigate systemically oppressive structures.
I believe therapy should be an affirming space where we can explore our lived experiences and how we relate to the world. I believe you are the expert on your life, possessing deep knowledge of your identity, values, and how they interact as you move through life. Through honest dialogue, mindful reflection, and self-compassion, we can develop tools to help you authentically navigate life’s obstacles. I’ve worked with clients to address anxiety, depression, stress, identity exploration, relationship issues, trauma, and life transitions. I engage all clients with a culturally affirming, trauma-informed, and person-centered approach.
As a Black man, I am passionate about supporting marginalized individuals who navigate systemically oppressive structures.
I believe therapy should be an affirming space where we can explore our lived experiences and how we relate to the world. I believe you are the expert on your life, possessing deep knowledge of your identity, values, and how they interact as you move through life. Through honest dialogue, mindful reflection, and self-compassion, we can develop tools to help you authentically navigate life’s obstacles. I’ve worked with clients to address anxiety, depression, stress, identity exploration, relationship issues, trauma, and life transitions. I engage all clients with a culturally affirming, trauma-informed, and person-centered approach.
(872) 273-5757 View (872) 273-5757
Photo of Jason Shaw Jr, MA, Counselor
Jason Shaw Jr
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Therapy can often be an intimidating space for people, so as a cis- Black male therapist, my theoretical orientation/approach to therapy is from a liberation and social justice lens, working through an anti-oppressive framework, which is trauma-informed, to make clients feel a sense of belonging while working with me. In working from a Liberation Psychology lens, I am able to better assist clients from BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other intentionally marginalized backgrounds in identifying and managing anxieties and other stressors/mental health needs from their experiences of oppression, trauma, and other sociopolitical factors.
Therapy can often be an intimidating space for people, so as a cis- Black male therapist, my theoretical orientation/approach to therapy is from a liberation and social justice lens, working through an anti-oppressive framework, which is trauma-informed, to make clients feel a sense of belonging while working with me. In working from a Liberation Psychology lens, I am able to better assist clients from BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other intentionally marginalized backgrounds in identifying and managing anxieties and other stressors/mental health needs from their experiences of oppression, trauma, and other sociopolitical factors.
(872) 245-0219 View (872) 245-0219
Photo of Nilsa Ruiz, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nilsa Ruiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Nilsa is a culturally competent bilingual clinician with a passionate focus on helping individuals, couples, adolescents, and families in overcoming generational trauma and destructive Mental Health related issues. As a Latina, Nilsa understands the barriers and stigma around Mental Health Services in marginalized communities and the effects it has in black and brown communities. She believes in the power of understanding her client’s story, experience, and social factors that has shaped them in who they are today regardless, of their race, sex, nationality, ethnicity, language, religion or any other status.
Nilsa is a culturally competent bilingual clinician with a passionate focus on helping individuals, couples, adolescents, and families in overcoming generational trauma and destructive Mental Health related issues. As a Latina, Nilsa understands the barriers and stigma around Mental Health Services in marginalized communities and the effects it has in black and brown communities. She believes in the power of understanding her client’s story, experience, and social factors that has shaped them in who they are today regardless, of their race, sex, nationality, ethnicity, language, religion or any other status.
(708) 554-7466 View (708) 554-7466
Photo of Dr. Genessa Lewis, Rxp, PsyD, C-TMH, Psychologist
Dr. Genessa Lewis
Psychologist, Rxp, PsyD, C-TMH
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As the first and only African American female prescribing psychologist in Illinois and retired Chicago police officer I am committed to providing comprehensive mental health care tailored to the diverse needs of my clients.
Clients sometimes feel stuck and overwhelmed by the demands of life and they might struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma, or face unique cultural or systemic stressors that have compounded over time. They are seeking not just relief, but a path toward reclaiming their balance and joy. Clients often seek a holistic approach that honors both their psychological and biological needs. Whether their goal is to achieve emotional stability, improve relationships, or simply find the energy to pursue their passions, they want to work with someone who understands the nuances of their experiences and can offer empathy and expertise.
As the first and only African American female prescribing psychologist in Illinois and retired Chicago police officer I am committed to providing comprehensive mental health care tailored to the diverse needs of my clients.
Clients sometimes feel stuck and overwhelmed by the demands of life and they might struggle with anxiety, depression, or trauma, or face unique cultural or systemic stressors that have compounded over time. They are seeking not just relief, but a path toward reclaiming their balance and joy. Clients often seek a holistic approach that honors both their psychological and biological needs. Whether their goal is to achieve emotional stability, improve relationships, or simply find the energy to pursue their passions, they want to work with someone who understands the nuances of their experiences and can offer empathy and expertise.
(708) 905-8612 View (708) 905-8612
Photo of Jennifer Koriath - Thrive Counseling and Wellness, PC, LCPC, LPC
Thrive Counseling and Wellness, PC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Thrive Counseling & Wellness was founded in 2020 with the idea that therapy doesn't have to be scary. Jen Koriath, LCPC, LPC, the practice owner (pictured), wanted to create a boutique private practice that focused on psychological wellness for those experiencing anxiety, trauma and chronic pain/illness. She herself has an autoimmune disorder, rheumatoid arthritis, that lends to her ability to empathize truly with those experiencing a chronic condition. Dr. Nicol Osborne, PsyD, LSW, joined the practice in 2024 and she lends her expertise in treating clients with autism and ADHD spectrum as well as racial trauma among Black patients.
Thrive Counseling & Wellness was founded in 2020 with the idea that therapy doesn't have to be scary. Jen Koriath, LCPC, LPC, the practice owner (pictured), wanted to create a boutique private practice that focused on psychological wellness for those experiencing anxiety, trauma and chronic pain/illness. She herself has an autoimmune disorder, rheumatoid arthritis, that lends to her ability to empathize truly with those experiencing a chronic condition. Dr. Nicol Osborne, PsyD, LSW, joined the practice in 2024 and she lends her expertise in treating clients with autism and ADHD spectrum as well as racial trauma among Black patients.
(708) 726-0714 View (708) 726-0714
Photo of Agazit Asihel, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Agazit Asihel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
New you, new flow! Have you been able to process how your nervous system is adjusting to life's stressors? I take an empathetic and affirming approach and I acknowledge that doing the inner work can be difficult. I'm proud of you for considering & investing in yourself. I work with clients who are BI&POC- Black Indigenous and People of Color. I enjoy empowering clients as they explore how their nervous system is responding to past and current experiences. Your relationships, career and dreams are evolving and when you win, I win!
New you, new flow! Have you been able to process how your nervous system is adjusting to life's stressors? I take an empathetic and affirming approach and I acknowledge that doing the inner work can be difficult. I'm proud of you for considering & investing in yourself. I work with clients who are BI&POC- Black Indigenous and People of Color. I enjoy empowering clients as they explore how their nervous system is responding to past and current experiences. Your relationships, career and dreams are evolving and when you win, I win!
(202) 866-2115 View (202) 866-2115
Photo of Kristen Barry, MA
Kristen Barry
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
In the therapeutic setting, my goal is to provide clients the space to be their most authentic selves. Too often in society, we are forced to wear a façade, or be a fraction of ourselves in any given space, for fear of being “too much” or fear of not being accepted fully. In our sessions, I encourage you to take up space unapologetically. I love being able to help my clients discover their real selves and give them the tools to overcome any obstacles in their journeys towards wellness. I show up to sessions as my authentic self, and I encourage my clients to do the same. The work begins where the masks end.
In the therapeutic setting, my goal is to provide clients the space to be their most authentic selves. Too often in society, we are forced to wear a façade, or be a fraction of ourselves in any given space, for fear of being “too much” or fear of not being accepted fully. In our sessions, I encourage you to take up space unapologetically. I love being able to help my clients discover their real selves and give them the tools to overcome any obstacles in their journeys towards wellness. I show up to sessions as my authentic self, and I encourage my clients to do the same. The work begins where the masks end.
(312) 374-6977 View (312) 374-6977
Photo of Jennifer Ngaonye, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Ngaonye
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642
I believe that everyone has purpose and value no matter how big or small. My goal in counseling is to walk alongside my clients on their journey to mental wellness as they rediscover and align themselves with the lives they desire to live.
I believe that everyone has purpose and value no matter how big or small. My goal in counseling is to walk alongside my clients on their journey to mental wellness as they rediscover and align themselves with the lives they desire to live.
(708) 578-7197 View (708) 578-7197
Photo of Juton Strickland - Phoenix Rising Counseling and Guidance, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Phoenix Rising Counseling and Guidance
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
In my work, I am passionate about helping clients navigate challenges and strengthen their relationships. I believe in the power of open communication, empathy, and understanding in fostering healthy dynamics. I work with clients to identify and address conflicts, improve communication patterns, and build resilience in the face of adversity. I am committed to helping clients cultivate a sense of unity, support, and connection, and guiding them towards a more harmonious and fulfilling life together.
In my work, I am passionate about helping clients navigate challenges and strengthen their relationships. I believe in the power of open communication, empathy, and understanding in fostering healthy dynamics. I work with clients to identify and address conflicts, improve communication patterns, and build resilience in the face of adversity. I am committed to helping clients cultivate a sense of unity, support, and connection, and guiding them towards a more harmonious and fulfilling life together.
(708) 809-3102 x1 View (708) 809-3102 x1
Photo of Sharda Wright, LCPC
Sharda Wright
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607
Maybe you've asked yourself, why can't I shake these feelings? The difficulty concentrating, worrying, sadness, crying spells, feeling empty or just stuck. Or have you thought, when will I get over this? I'm tired of having flashbacks, feeling "on edge" and restless nights. Perhaps you've considered "OK, now what?" after the divorce, unexpected loss, new job, a recent diagnosis, infidelity, or navigating this space of uncertainty and pandemic related changes. Whether it's a relational struggle, figuring out your happiness, exploring your faith and everything else in between, you do have a choice in creating the life you desire!
Maybe you've asked yourself, why can't I shake these feelings? The difficulty concentrating, worrying, sadness, crying spells, feeling empty or just stuck. Or have you thought, when will I get over this? I'm tired of having flashbacks, feeling "on edge" and restless nights. Perhaps you've considered "OK, now what?" after the divorce, unexpected loss, new job, a recent diagnosis, infidelity, or navigating this space of uncertainty and pandemic related changes. Whether it's a relational struggle, figuring out your happiness, exploring your faith and everything else in between, you do have a choice in creating the life you desire!
(773) 839-5311 View (773) 839-5311
Photo of Andrianna N Johnson, MA, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Andrianna N Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60651
I have always wanted to help people, and in my community I have seen people who look like me battle with various symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma. I dedicated myself to loving and continuously learning all things mental health, so that I can help those that need the most support doing difficult times in their lives. There comes a time in our lives where we want something to change. We have been trying things different ways for a while; nothing seems to be working. Let's give therapy a try. Let's try a new approach that can help you be the you envision for yourself.
I have always wanted to help people, and in my community I have seen people who look like me battle with various symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma. I dedicated myself to loving and continuously learning all things mental health, so that I can help those that need the most support doing difficult times in their lives. There comes a time in our lives where we want something to change. We have been trying things different ways for a while; nothing seems to be working. Let's give therapy a try. Let's try a new approach that can help you be the you envision for yourself.
(708) 960-8164 View (708) 960-8164
Photo of Troy Eldon Gibson - AllWell Therapy PLLC, MA, LCPC, Counselor
AllWell Therapy PLLC
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Has anyone asked how you are doing lately? Why does it feel like nobody checks on the strong ones no matter how overwhelming life gets? I see you. I want to be the one to check on you. The strongest of us could use a shoulder to lean on too after all. I don’t want to see you trapped in a cycle of pain from bottling things up. Enough is enough. I have a safe space for us to put those unresolved emotions to rest. When you are ready, I am here to support and empower you along your journey.
Has anyone asked how you are doing lately? Why does it feel like nobody checks on the strong ones no matter how overwhelming life gets? I see you. I want to be the one to check on you. The strongest of us could use a shoulder to lean on too after all. I don’t want to see you trapped in a cycle of pain from bottling things up. Enough is enough. I have a safe space for us to put those unresolved emotions to rest. When you are ready, I am here to support and empower you along your journey.
(312) 854-7343 View (312) 854-7343
Photo of Drae Laws, Pre-Licensed Professional
Drae Laws
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
My therapeutic approach is shaped by three beliefs: (1) regardless of your past and current situation, you are worthy of love and respect, (2) you have inherent strengths, and (3) systemic oppression plays a role in way we think, feel, and behave; therefore, in therapy, it is important to consider the relationship among systemic oppression, mental health and the multiple identities we hold. I believe showing up as your authentic self is brave and healthy. Together, we will create a safe and non-judgmental space as we work through your goals.
My therapeutic approach is shaped by three beliefs: (1) regardless of your past and current situation, you are worthy of love and respect, (2) you have inherent strengths, and (3) systemic oppression plays a role in way we think, feel, and behave; therefore, in therapy, it is important to consider the relationship among systemic oppression, mental health and the multiple identities we hold. I believe showing up as your authentic self is brave and healthy. Together, we will create a safe and non-judgmental space as we work through your goals.
(312) 728-7966 View (312) 728-7966
Photo of Michael Mays, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Michael Mays
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I believe psychotherapy should be simple and accessible; theories are important yet your own experience is the best teacher. Similarly, connecting with my clients on a deeply relational level and developing an understanding of who you are is as integral to the process as the clinical training which informs my therapeutic approach. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who emphasizes existential concerns at the heart of the issues that bring people into therapy. Some examples include creating a more meaningful existence, exercising personal freedom/choice, and developing a greater sense of responsibility for one's growth.
I believe psychotherapy should be simple and accessible; theories are important yet your own experience is the best teacher. Similarly, connecting with my clients on a deeply relational level and developing an understanding of who you are is as integral to the process as the clinical training which informs my therapeutic approach. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who emphasizes existential concerns at the heart of the issues that bring people into therapy. Some examples include creating a more meaningful existence, exercising personal freedom/choice, and developing a greater sense of responsibility for one's growth.
(773) 207-4083 View (773) 207-4083
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