Black and African American Therapists in Aberdeen Proving, MD
Serving Virginia and Maryland Virtually,
I specialize in working with individuals navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, and the impact of generational trauma. Many of my clients feel like the “strong one,” carrying emotional weight while struggling with overthinking, boundaries, and patterns they’re ready to break. I also work with adults and couples experiencing communication difficulties, emotional overwhelm, and life transitions. Clients come to therapy seeking relief, clarity, and healthier ways of relating to themselves and others.
Serving Virginia and Maryland Virtually,
I specialize in working with individuals navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, and the impact of generational trauma. Many of my clients feel like the “strong one,” carrying emotional weight while struggling with overthinking, boundaries, and patterns they’re ready to break. I also work with adults and couples experiencing communication difficulties, emotional overwhelm, and life transitions. Clients come to therapy seeking relief, clarity, and healthier ways of relating to themselves and others.
Sheria Y. Francis, MSW, LCSW, CAADC, C-SWHC is a licensed clinical social worker and the founder of Held II Heal, LLC. She specializes in working with adults navigating trauma, addiction recovery, burnout, grief, and major life transitions. Her approach is trauma-informed and evidence-based, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness-based strategies. Sheria’s work focuses on helping individuals make sense of difficult experiences, rebuild emotional stability, and develop a stronger, more grounded sense of self.
Sheria Y. Francis, MSW, LCSW, CAADC, C-SWHC is a licensed clinical social worker and the founder of Held II Heal, LLC. She specializes in working with adults navigating trauma, addiction recovery, burnout, grief, and major life transitions. Her approach is trauma-informed and evidence-based, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness-based strategies. Sheria’s work focuses on helping individuals make sense of difficult experiences, rebuild emotional stability, and develop a stronger, more grounded sense of self.
Greetings: I am Donnell Pinder Jr., a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor dedicated to helping individuals through life's challenges and heal from difficult experiences. I am licensed in the state of Maryland and have worked with individuals across the lifespan, with over 12 years of experience in treating anxiety, trauma, and depression from a clinical Christian perspective. Whether you are dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, career challenges, depression, and/or simply feeling stuck.
Greetings: I am Donnell Pinder Jr., a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor dedicated to helping individuals through life's challenges and heal from difficult experiences. I am licensed in the state of Maryland and have worked with individuals across the lifespan, with over 12 years of experience in treating anxiety, trauma, and depression from a clinical Christian perspective. Whether you are dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, career challenges, depression, and/or simply feeling stuck.
Hello, I'm Shawnta (pronounced with a long a sound at the end)!
Do you want to rediscover yourself in a way that moves you forward in life toward purpose and joy? Are you experiencing challenges in moving forward after a significant loss? Do you find yourself consumed by the past and unable to move forward?
You have taken a significant and important step by seeking therapy. I help men, women, and adolescents overcome challenges related to depression and anxiety.
Hello, I'm Shawnta (pronounced with a long a sound at the end)!
Do you want to rediscover yourself in a way that moves you forward in life toward purpose and joy? Are you experiencing challenges in moving forward after a significant loss? Do you find yourself consumed by the past and unable to move forward?
You have taken a significant and important step by seeking therapy. I help men, women, and adolescents overcome challenges related to depression and anxiety.
More Therapists Nearby
If you feel stuck in life, are struggling to get out of bed, or lacking the motivation to keep going...therapy can help. Are you worrying about every little thing? Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Let me help you manage anxiety, overthinking, and self-doubt so you can finally feel like yourself again. Therapy gives you the tools needed to improve your mental health. I will help you identify goals and support you on your healing journey. I specialize in working with those struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationships, and life transitions. I'd love to hear from you so we can get started!
If you feel stuck in life, are struggling to get out of bed, or lacking the motivation to keep going...therapy can help. Are you worrying about every little thing? Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Let me help you manage anxiety, overthinking, and self-doubt so you can finally feel like yourself again. Therapy gives you the tools needed to improve your mental health. I will help you identify goals and support you on your healing journey. I specialize in working with those struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, relationships, and life transitions. I'd love to hear from you so we can get started!
My ideal client would be someone either navigating life stressors, anxiety, or depression. My client is someone hoping to reconnect with their strengths as well as create a better balance in their life. My client could potentially be experiencing trauma or issues with attachment concerns and relationships. My client expresses their goals of needing to manage emotions better, find balance within their routine, and build more confidence, which is helpful for communication of desires/ interests. The client wants to accomplish these goals for the first time or as a result of transition/trauma.
My ideal client would be someone either navigating life stressors, anxiety, or depression. My client is someone hoping to reconnect with their strengths as well as create a better balance in their life. My client could potentially be experiencing trauma or issues with attachment concerns and relationships. My client expresses their goals of needing to manage emotions better, find balance within their routine, and build more confidence, which is helpful for communication of desires/ interests. The client wants to accomplish these goals for the first time or as a result of transition/trauma.
You've been through something that changed you and some days, just getting through feels like enough. Trust doesn't come easy anymore. Your emotions can feel too big, too fast, or completely shut off.
You're not broken. You're surviving something real. But you want more than survival. You want to feel steady, trust yourself again, and stop letting what happened define what's possible for you. I work with youth and young adults ready to do that work. This is a space where your story is held with care, your pace is respected, and healing is actually possible. You deserve that.
You've been through something that changed you and some days, just getting through feels like enough. Trust doesn't come easy anymore. Your emotions can feel too big, too fast, or completely shut off.
You're not broken. You're surviving something real. But you want more than survival. You want to feel steady, trust yourself again, and stop letting what happened define what's possible for you. I work with youth and young adults ready to do that work. This is a space where your story is held with care, your pace is respected, and healing is actually possible. You deserve that.
You may look capable on the outside, but internally feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself. Many people I work with are juggling work, parenting, and relationships while quietly operating in survival mode. Trauma—whether recent or long past—can intensify this strain, showing up as hypervigilance, emotional numbing, over-functioning, or feeling responsible for everyone else’s needs.
You may look capable on the outside, but internally feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself. Many people I work with are juggling work, parenting, and relationships while quietly operating in survival mode. Trauma—whether recent or long past—can intensify this strain, showing up as hypervigilance, emotional numbing, over-functioning, or feeling responsible for everyone else’s needs.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in the belief that therapy is a deeply personal experience, not a one-size-fits-all process. I tailor each client’s treatment to their unique history, needs, strengths, and goals, ensuring that our work together feels relevant, collaborative, and meaningful. I specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
My therapeutic approach is grounded in the belief that therapy is a deeply personal experience, not a one-size-fits-all process. I tailor each client’s treatment to their unique history, needs, strengths, and goals, ensuring that our work together feels relevant, collaborative, and meaningful. I specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Maybe it's anger and communication issues! Come with me on a journey to dive into these challenges and find resolve. My name is Ray Smith, a Clinical Social Worker also recognized by the National Association of Social Workers as a Qualified Clinical Social Worker. Since I was a child, I've always had compassion for others around me. Naturally, this has driven me to the helping profession, where I strive to help individuals live through their struggles, seeking to experience life to their fullest potential. So let's work together!
Are you struggling with anxiety and depression? Maybe it's anger and communication issues! Come with me on a journey to dive into these challenges and find resolve. My name is Ray Smith, a Clinical Social Worker also recognized by the National Association of Social Workers as a Qualified Clinical Social Worker. Since I was a child, I've always had compassion for others around me. Naturally, this has driven me to the helping profession, where I strive to help individuals live through their struggles, seeking to experience life to their fullest potential. So let's work together!
I am a licensed social worker in Maryland and Washington, D.C. I have made a difference in people's lives by helping them cope with their mental health problems. I received my bachelor's degree from Howard University and continued my education at Fordham University to obtain my master's degree. I have experience in a wide range of roles in the mental health field, including program management, participating in school-based programs, and adult education for those with learning disabilities.
I am a licensed social worker in Maryland and Washington, D.C. I have made a difference in people's lives by helping them cope with their mental health problems. I received my bachelor's degree from Howard University and continued my education at Fordham University to obtain my master's degree. I have experience in a wide range of roles in the mental health field, including program management, participating in school-based programs, and adult education for those with learning disabilities.
Hi! This is Doc Arlette. I am a counseling psychologist licensed in the state of Maryland. Have you had difficulties with being psychologically well due to identity shifts, adjustment, mood, stress, and anxiety concerns? I look forward to accompanying you in your journey for psychological wellbeing.
Hi! This is Doc Arlette. I am a counseling psychologist licensed in the state of Maryland. Have you had difficulties with being psychologically well due to identity shifts, adjustment, mood, stress, and anxiety concerns? I look forward to accompanying you in your journey for psychological wellbeing.
Kesta M - Christian Counselor Certified in
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, LMHC, EMDR
Online Only
Are you questioning why God seems silent in the midst of your struggles? Do you want
to find healing and relief with the help of a like-minded therapist who can integrate your Christian beliefs into this process? You probably often turned to scripture and prayer to feel healed, restored, and alive, yet you still feel stuck. You still find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma. And now you might be wondering: Am I broken? Does this mean my faith isn’t strong enough or God doesn’t love me?
Are you questioning why God seems silent in the midst of your struggles? Do you want
to find healing and relief with the help of a like-minded therapist who can integrate your Christian beliefs into this process? You probably often turned to scripture and prayer to feel healed, restored, and alive, yet you still feel stuck. You still find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma. And now you might be wondering: Am I broken? Does this mean my faith isn’t strong enough or God doesn’t love me?
Become your best self! The key to success in therapy, is a trusting, authentic relationship, and dedication to the process both within and outside of treatment. I apply evidence-based practices in a collaborative effort to provide effective counseling for clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and issues related to substance use within the family system. Individual counseling is provided for adults, and marital counseling is provided as well. As a clinician, licensed both in mental health (LCPC) and substance use disorders (LCADC), I make it easy to address mental heath and/or substance use concerns.
Become your best self! The key to success in therapy, is a trusting, authentic relationship, and dedication to the process both within and outside of treatment. I apply evidence-based practices in a collaborative effort to provide effective counseling for clients experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and issues related to substance use within the family system. Individual counseling is provided for adults, and marital counseling is provided as well. As a clinician, licensed both in mental health (LCPC) and substance use disorders (LCADC), I make it easy to address mental heath and/or substance use concerns.
I am a license African American clinical social worker with over 20+ years of experience.
We will also go over the session policies, interventions used, and goal setting. It is important to me that you feel you are in a safe space. as if you are having a discussion within a safe space. If you are looking for a licensed therapist who understands the unique needs of her clients without judgement, you have come to the right place.
I am a license African American clinical social worker with over 20+ years of experience.
We will also go over the session policies, interventions used, and goal setting. It is important to me that you feel you are in a safe space. as if you are having a discussion within a safe space. If you are looking for a licensed therapist who understands the unique needs of her clients without judgement, you have come to the right place.
Maybe you feel like life is not worth living anymore. Like no one has your back. Maybe you find yourself saying, “I’m going to fail anyway, so why even try?” Or maybe you want to start moving forward with your life, but don’t know where to even begin. It is completely possible to get "unstuck," so that you can begin living again, and not just merely existing. It all starts with knowing that YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
Maybe you feel like life is not worth living anymore. Like no one has your back. Maybe you find yourself saying, “I’m going to fail anyway, so why even try?” Or maybe you want to start moving forward with your life, but don’t know where to even begin. It is completely possible to get "unstuck," so that you can begin living again, and not just merely existing. It all starts with knowing that YOU ARE NOT ALONE.
I provide telehealth to clients in the state of Maryland, North Carolina and Ohio. I specialize in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, conflict management and adjustment related issues. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psycho-Education and Eastern Medicine. These treatment modalities have been found to effectively treat the above mentioned conditions.
I provide telehealth to clients in the state of Maryland, North Carolina and Ohio. I specialize in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, conflict management and adjustment related issues. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psycho-Education and Eastern Medicine. These treatment modalities have been found to effectively treat the above mentioned conditions.
Life has a way of placing us in seasons we didn’t expect. You may be navigating anxiety, major life transitions, relationship stress, trauma, or the emotional weight of always being “the strong one.” If you want a safe, supportive space to explore what you’re feeling, heal from what you’ve carried, and reconnect with your best self—to grow, feel whole, and cultivate peace and joy—I’m here to help.
Life has a way of placing us in seasons we didn’t expect. You may be navigating anxiety, major life transitions, relationship stress, trauma, or the emotional weight of always being “the strong one.” If you want a safe, supportive space to explore what you’re feeling, heal from what you’ve carried, and reconnect with your best self—to grow, feel whole, and cultivate peace and joy—I’m here to help.
An ideal client is willing to explore and address the discomfort and sometimes unknown that is impacting their feelings and thoughts. Therapy will mend the disconnect that occurs between the heart and mind when traumatized, and assist with day to day management of stress, loneliness and sense of hopelessness and helplessness. I hope to be the tool that assist you along your journey to recovery, which is possible.
An ideal client is willing to explore and address the discomfort and sometimes unknown that is impacting their feelings and thoughts. Therapy will mend the disconnect that occurs between the heart and mind when traumatized, and assist with day to day management of stress, loneliness and sense of hopelessness and helplessness. I hope to be the tool that assist you along your journey to recovery, which is possible.
You are used to showing up for everything & everyone; therapy is where you finally get to show up for yourself.
I work with high-functioning individuals who are accustomed to managing a lot & doing it well. Many of my clients navigate demanding careers, complex relationships, & major life transitions while quietly carrying stress, pressure, or emotional fatigue without having a consistent space to process it.
Together, we create space to slow down, gain clarity, & better understand what is happening beneath the surface. From there, we begin to shift patterns, build insight, & move toward a more grounded, intentional way of living.
You are used to showing up for everything & everyone; therapy is where you finally get to show up for yourself.
I work with high-functioning individuals who are accustomed to managing a lot & doing it well. Many of my clients navigate demanding careers, complex relationships, & major life transitions while quietly carrying stress, pressure, or emotional fatigue without having a consistent space to process it.
Together, we create space to slow down, gain clarity, & better understand what is happening beneath the surface. From there, we begin to shift patterns, build insight, & move toward a more grounded, intentional way of living.
See more therapy options for Aberdeen Proving
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Aberdeen Proving
- Aberdeen
- Abingdon
- Bel Air
- Edgewood
- Elkton
- Forest Hill
- Havre De Grace
- Joppa
- Middle River
- Nottingham
- Perry Hall
- White Marsh
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.