Black and African American Therapists in Saint Paul, MN
Therapy is not meant to be a stuffy process. It is meant to be as unique as each
individual that walks into the room. I approach psychotherapy from a need’s
perspective. If a client has a need that isn’t met, we will focus on that together, and if
time and head space allows, then we will focus on processing. I believe in decolonizing the therapy process, which means being collaborative with clients throughout the entire therapeutic process from first meetings, diagnosis, and ending services. Clients are the experts on themselves and I am there to help support and walk alongside them through the journey that is therapy.
Therapy is not meant to be a stuffy process. It is meant to be as unique as each
individual that walks into the room. I approach psychotherapy from a need’s
perspective. If a client has a need that isn’t met, we will focus on that together, and if
time and head space allows, then we will focus on processing. I believe in decolonizing the therapy process, which means being collaborative with clients throughout the entire therapeutic process from first meetings, diagnosis, and ending services. Clients are the experts on themselves and I am there to help support and walk alongside them through the journey that is therapy.
Erin has a passion for working with all humans; inclusivity and diversity are important cornerstones of her work. She welcomes the opportunity to create connections and offer ways of working through whatever challenges are presented. Understanding each of her client’s unique stories and allowing a safe space for individual/familial reflection and growth is at the core of her work. Encouraging clients to find and cultivate their strengths and understand their emotional connections and relationships under a systemic lens is an important part of the therapeutic journey, in which Erin is committed to provide.
Erin has a passion for working with all humans; inclusivity and diversity are important cornerstones of her work. She welcomes the opportunity to create connections and offer ways of working through whatever challenges are presented. Understanding each of her client’s unique stories and allowing a safe space for individual/familial reflection and growth is at the core of her work. Encouraging clients to find and cultivate their strengths and understand their emotional connections and relationships under a systemic lens is an important part of the therapeutic journey, in which Erin is committed to provide.
I enjoy working with clients that are fed up with constant feelings of dissatisfaction in life and are ready to discover new ways of thinking and being. The clients that I work with are from many different walks of life. They struggle with issues such as substance use, relationship problems, identity issues, depression, anxiety, life stressors and fears about the future. I enjoy working with clients to challenge beliefs about their reality and take control of their lives.
I enjoy working with clients that are fed up with constant feelings of dissatisfaction in life and are ready to discover new ways of thinking and being. The clients that I work with are from many different walks of life. They struggle with issues such as substance use, relationship problems, identity issues, depression, anxiety, life stressors and fears about the future. I enjoy working with clients to challenge beliefs about their reality and take control of their lives.
I am committed to creating a non-judgmental and compassionate environment where you can feel safe to share your thoughts and emotions. Together, we will work towards developing coping mechanisms and strategies that can help you manage your mental health needs and improve your overall well-being. In therapy, I utilize a combination of evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Mindfulness techniques. These approaches are tailored to your individual needs and can help you gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as well as develop healthier patterns.
I am committed to creating a non-judgmental and compassionate environment where you can feel safe to share your thoughts and emotions. Together, we will work towards developing coping mechanisms and strategies that can help you manage your mental health needs and improve your overall well-being. In therapy, I utilize a combination of evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Mindfulness techniques. These approaches are tailored to your individual needs and can help you gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as well as develop healthier patterns.
Are you a perfectionist or a high achiever who struggles to get out of your own way? Are you motivated and ready to make transformative changes in your life? Maybe you’ve been in therapy before, but still feel stuck or unsure how to use the tools you’ve learned. Great news: you’re not alone! I work with people who are ready to move beyond insight alone and make meaningful, sustainable changes in their lives. I value therapy that is culturally-responsive, trauma-informed, and focused on real-world application that is rooted in action. Together, we’ll identify what’s keeping you stuck and develop tools you can use outside of sessions.
Are you a perfectionist or a high achiever who struggles to get out of your own way? Are you motivated and ready to make transformative changes in your life? Maybe you’ve been in therapy before, but still feel stuck or unsure how to use the tools you’ve learned. Great news: you’re not alone! I work with people who are ready to move beyond insight alone and make meaningful, sustainable changes in their lives. I value therapy that is culturally-responsive, trauma-informed, and focused on real-world application that is rooted in action. Together, we’ll identify what’s keeping you stuck and develop tools you can use outside of sessions.
As a first-gen Oromo American and oldest, I understand the pressure of being “the strong one,” the bridge between cultures and generations, and how that can both shape and challenge your sense of self. You might be feeling the weight of responsibility-navigating grief, anxiety, or the quiet exhaustion that comes from always showing up for others. You may be a caregiver, a professional in demanding roles, or coping with microaggressions and cultural stressors that leave little room to breathe.
As a first-gen Oromo American and oldest, I understand the pressure of being “the strong one,” the bridge between cultures and generations, and how that can both shape and challenge your sense of self. You might be feeling the weight of responsibility-navigating grief, anxiety, or the quiet exhaustion that comes from always showing up for others. You may be a caregiver, a professional in demanding roles, or coping with microaggressions and cultural stressors that leave little room to breathe.
I want to eradicate the stigma of mental health and as a Black Woman, representation of mental health providers is important to me.
Talking to someone that you don't know about your problems is not easy. I get it and I've been there before. I learned that suffering is not only a very common human experience, it's something we don't have to go through alone. Another thing that comes up is whether or not our problems are "important enough" and if they are important to you, they are important to me. School issues? Single and going back into the dating world? Relationship issues? Self-esteem? Parenting? You name it, and I want to be there to support you through it all.
I want to eradicate the stigma of mental health and as a Black Woman, representation of mental health providers is important to me.
Talking to someone that you don't know about your problems is not easy. I get it and I've been there before. I learned that suffering is not only a very common human experience, it's something we don't have to go through alone. Another thing that comes up is whether or not our problems are "important enough" and if they are important to you, they are important to me. School issues? Single and going back into the dating world? Relationship issues? Self-esteem? Parenting? You name it, and I want to be there to support you through it all.
For Black and BIPOC communities, prioritizing mental health is an act of reclaiming rest, voice, and healing in spaces that haven’t always made room for it.
As a therapist, I offer a person‑centered approach that honors your unique circumstances and recognizes the importance of an integrated perspective. Together, we’ll explore the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of your experience to support meaningful, sustainable change.
For Black and BIPOC communities, prioritizing mental health is an act of reclaiming rest, voice, and healing in spaces that haven’t always made room for it.
As a therapist, I offer a person‑centered approach that honors your unique circumstances and recognizes the importance of an integrated perspective. Together, we’ll explore the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of your experience to support meaningful, sustainable change.
Melissa Anderson is a LMFT and LADC and has been in the mental health field for many years. She has received her Post Masters in Marriage and Family and MA in Counseling from St. Mary’s University. Melissa realizes each person is unique and have “breaks” which are caused by “Circumstances coming at us all at once that is too much, too fast and too soon." My approach is oriented towards helping those de-construct these life experiences where you can understand you are perfect in who you are now and it's ok to still change."
Melissa Anderson is a LMFT and LADC and has been in the mental health field for many years. She has received her Post Masters in Marriage and Family and MA in Counseling from St. Mary’s University. Melissa realizes each person is unique and have “breaks” which are caused by “Circumstances coming at us all at once that is too much, too fast and too soon." My approach is oriented towards helping those de-construct these life experiences where you can understand you are perfect in who you are now and it's ok to still change."
We have Current Openings ! We are a diverse group of therapists who see individuals, couples and whole families of all ages. We value authenticity, social justice, and relationships. At Down to Earth Therapy we are committed to not only listening, but to actively partnering with you and helping you make the changes you, your partnership, and/or your family desire. We celebrate clients of all class, sexuality, ethnicity, race, gender identity, ability, size and spiritual belief. Go to our website to view our therapists unique specialties.
We have Current Openings ! We are a diverse group of therapists who see individuals, couples and whole families of all ages. We value authenticity, social justice, and relationships. At Down to Earth Therapy we are committed to not only listening, but to actively partnering with you and helping you make the changes you, your partnership, and/or your family desire. We celebrate clients of all class, sexuality, ethnicity, race, gender identity, ability, size and spiritual belief. Go to our website to view our therapists unique specialties.
I am a Black American woman whose identities influence almost every aspect of my lived experience and because of this I am passionate about social justice and equity within our current societal structure.
I believe everybody has the capacity to change and grow. I believe in the resilience and determination of all people. I hope to create a safe and inclusive space for clients to be heard and understood. My goal is to honor each client’s unique journey while also encouraging insight, self-awareness, and change. Clients who are dealing with life transitions, relational problems and mental health issues like anxiety and depression are all things I work with.
I am a Black American woman whose identities influence almost every aspect of my lived experience and because of this I am passionate about social justice and equity within our current societal structure.
I believe everybody has the capacity to change and grow. I believe in the resilience and determination of all people. I hope to create a safe and inclusive space for clients to be heard and understood. My goal is to honor each client’s unique journey while also encouraging insight, self-awareness, and change. Clients who are dealing with life transitions, relational problems and mental health issues like anxiety and depression are all things I work with.
I am licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started !Additional areas of focus: Adoption and foster care, Aging and geriatric issues, Attachment issues, Autism and Asperger
I am licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started !Additional areas of focus: Adoption and foster care, Aging and geriatric issues, Attachment issues, Autism and Asperger
At Take Flight Counseling Services, we enjoy working with clients in the area of trauma, PTD, depression, anxiety, emotional and relationship issues. We work with adults and adolescence clients from diverse backgrounds. Personal experiences have helped us to understand how essential it is to work with all our clients from their frame of reference and to actively listen to each client's needs in the theraputic relationship.
At Take Flight Counseling Services, we enjoy working with clients in the area of trauma, PTD, depression, anxiety, emotional and relationship issues. We work with adults and adolescence clients from diverse backgrounds. Personal experiences have helped us to understand how essential it is to work with all our clients from their frame of reference and to actively listen to each client's needs in the theraputic relationship.
I provide outpatient psychotherapy services to individuals, couples and families with a focus on assessment and treatment that is culturally sensitive.
I provide outpatient psychotherapy services to individuals, couples and families with a focus on assessment and treatment that is culturally sensitive.
As a dedicated and compassionate therapist, I am deeply committed to serving marginalized and underserved communities. My areas of specialization include trauma, with special emphasis on intergenerational and racial trauma, women's issues, identity issues, and addressing unique challenges that come with being an immigrant or refugee. I also enjoy working with college-age, international, and non-traditional students who often navigate complex transitions and cultural adjustments.
As a dedicated and compassionate therapist, I am deeply committed to serving marginalized and underserved communities. My areas of specialization include trauma, with special emphasis on intergenerational and racial trauma, women's issues, identity issues, and addressing unique challenges that come with being an immigrant or refugee. I also enjoy working with college-age, international, and non-traditional students who often navigate complex transitions and cultural adjustments.
Hey there, I'm Hannah! I'm all about helping you navigate tough moments and creating a life with intentionality. I'm deeply committed to understanding your unique story—where you come from, your environment, your culture—and how they shape your experiences today. Together, we'll create a safe space where you can explore, reflect, and heal at your own pace. My focus? Supporting adults like you as you tackle life's challenges head-on. Whether you're facing everyday struggles or healing from complex traumas, I'm here to walk beside you every step of the way.
Hey there, I'm Hannah! I'm all about helping you navigate tough moments and creating a life with intentionality. I'm deeply committed to understanding your unique story—where you come from, your environment, your culture—and how they shape your experiences today. Together, we'll create a safe space where you can explore, reflect, and heal at your own pace. My focus? Supporting adults like you as you tackle life's challenges head-on. Whether you're facing everyday struggles or healing from complex traumas, I'm here to walk beside you every step of the way.
As an African American therapist, I’m passionate about helping clients navigate minority stress, trauma, and the impact of marginalization.
I work with individuals 14 +up, couples & families from a non-judgmental, affirming, & empowering environment were we can define & develop skills, support systems and narratives that become the building blocks for your next chapter in life. I center Internal Family Systems (IFS), EFT, Experiential therapy, and brainspotting
As an African American therapist, I’m passionate about helping clients navigate minority stress, trauma, and the impact of marginalization.
I work with individuals 14 +up, couples & families from a non-judgmental, affirming, & empowering environment were we can define & develop skills, support systems and narratives that become the building blocks for your next chapter in life. I center Internal Family Systems (IFS), EFT, Experiential therapy, and brainspotting
“The man in the arena… who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” T. Roosevelt
I learned early on that difficult moments hold the potential for growth. Those experiences shaped my belief that courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to step into the arena anyway.
In my work, I strive to create a compassionate and emotionally safe space for individuals and families. Together, we explore coping strategies to help you navigate life’s challenges, anxiety and trauma.
“The man in the arena… who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” T. Roosevelt
I learned early on that difficult moments hold the potential for growth. Those experiences shaped my belief that courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to step into the arena anyway.
In my work, I strive to create a compassionate and emotionally safe space for individuals and families. Together, we explore coping strategies to help you navigate life’s challenges, anxiety and trauma.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to look within and explore the patterns that have shaped their life—someone who may feel stuck, disconnected, or uncertain but still has a deep desire to grow and heal. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or unresolved family dynamics that continue to influence their present experiences. Often, these clients have spent much of their lives caring for others or managing responsibilities, and now they are realizing it’s time to turn inward and nurture themselves.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to look within and explore the patterns that have shaped their life—someone who may feel stuck, disconnected, or uncertain but still has a deep desire to grow and heal. They may be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or unresolved family dynamics that continue to influence their present experiences. Often, these clients have spent much of their lives caring for others or managing responsibilities, and now they are realizing it’s time to turn inward and nurture themselves.
You appear to be functioning, but inside, you're tired. Maybe it's anxiety, maybe grief, maybe the weight of everyone else's needs. Either way, you keep going.
High-functioning, for many of my clients, doesn't mean achievement, it means survival. You're the one people count on, even when you're running on fumes. Whether it's rooted in cultural expectations, family dynamics, achievement pressure, or simply not having a safety net, you've learned to push through exhaustion because resting didn't feel like an option. I specialize in helping women who feel emotionally maxed out, yet still carry the weight of the world.
You appear to be functioning, but inside, you're tired. Maybe it's anxiety, maybe grief, maybe the weight of everyone else's needs. Either way, you keep going.
High-functioning, for many of my clients, doesn't mean achievement, it means survival. You're the one people count on, even when you're running on fumes. Whether it's rooted in cultural expectations, family dynamics, achievement pressure, or simply not having a safety net, you've learned to push through exhaustion because resting didn't feel like an option. I specialize in helping women who feel emotionally maxed out, yet still carry the weight of the world.
See more therapy options for Saint Paul
Nearby Black and African American Therapists Searches for Saint Paul
- Columbia Heights
- Eagan
- Fridley
- Inver Grove Heights
- Maplewood
- Mendota Heights
- Minneapolis
- New Brighton
- Oakdale
- Richfield
- Roseville
- Woodbury
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.