Black and African American Therapists in Luzerne County, PA
As a Black, non-binary, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of wide-ranging clinical and field experience, I look forward to tailoring my approach to meet your needs and help you reach your goals.
Research shows that therapy is much more useful when it involves having a set plan for what you hope to achieve or accomplish. In our initial sessions, we will collaborate to identify SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time Specific) goals that will serve as a roadmap for your treatment.
As a Black, non-binary, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of wide-ranging clinical and field experience, I look forward to tailoring my approach to meet your needs and help you reach your goals.
Research shows that therapy is much more useful when it involves having a set plan for what you hope to achieve or accomplish. In our initial sessions, we will collaborate to identify SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time Specific) goals that will serve as a roadmap for your treatment.
Life can become overwhelming, sometimes we forget it is a work in progress. The last few years have been a wild ride! Detours can happen making it easy to forget that the detours may be necessary to help us move forward. I enjoy having the privilege of helping individuals reach their full potential by helping to recognize their strengths through therapeutic intervention, self care, identifying coping strategies and learning to stay in the moment. The work can be difficult but that does not mean there may not be laughter, tears and progress.
Life can become overwhelming, sometimes we forget it is a work in progress. The last few years have been a wild ride! Detours can happen making it easy to forget that the detours may be necessary to help us move forward. I enjoy having the privilege of helping individuals reach their full potential by helping to recognize their strengths through therapeutic intervention, self care, identifying coping strategies and learning to stay in the moment. The work can be difficult but that does not mean there may not be laughter, tears and progress.
Are you desperate to save your marriage for the sake of your children? Is the tension so thick in your relationship you could cut it with a knife? Do you miss the warmth of your partner in the bed you used to share? I understand what you’re going through, and I can help.
Are you desperate to save your marriage for the sake of your children? Is the tension so thick in your relationship you could cut it with a knife? Do you miss the warmth of your partner in the bed you used to share? I understand what you’re going through, and I can help.
Life can take a very unexpected turn, sometimes good and sometimes bad. You may find that life is sunshine and rainbows… then suddenly it begins to rain, and when it rains it pours. Perhaps you have felt as though your life has been full of constant thunderstorms. As your therapist, I won’t give you an umbrella, but I will stand in the rain with you. I have a passion for helping people navigate life's challenges. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just looking for someone to talk to who can offer fresh perspectives, I’m here for you.
Life can take a very unexpected turn, sometimes good and sometimes bad. You may find that life is sunshine and rainbows… then suddenly it begins to rain, and when it rains it pours. Perhaps you have felt as though your life has been full of constant thunderstorms. As your therapist, I won’t give you an umbrella, but I will stand in the rain with you. I have a passion for helping people navigate life's challenges. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or just looking for someone to talk to who can offer fresh perspectives, I’m here for you.
Hi! My name is Shamni, and I am a licensed clinical social worker in Coral Springs, Florida. I proudly support children, teens, and women through a multitude of presenting issues. My passion is to nurture mental health and increase resilience in those looking to move past their daily struggles, who are facing life transitions and looking to grow into the next version of themselves. My previous experience focused on nonprofit/community work, which has increased my desire to guide and impact individuals who are seeking mental relief and safety in therapy.
Hi! My name is Shamni, and I am a licensed clinical social worker in Coral Springs, Florida. I proudly support children, teens, and women through a multitude of presenting issues. My passion is to nurture mental health and increase resilience in those looking to move past their daily struggles, who are facing life transitions and looking to grow into the next version of themselves. My previous experience focused on nonprofit/community work, which has increased my desire to guide and impact individuals who are seeking mental relief and safety in therapy.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards personal growth and change through one on one counseling! Whether you are new to counseling or continuing your journey, whether you are a concerned parent or simply an adult struggling to manage the chaos of everyday life, I believe that finding the right therapist with whom you can most connect with is one of the most important parts of the therapeutic process. I commend you on being brave enough to take those steps and for valuing your emotional health enough to do the work on becoming your best self.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards personal growth and change through one on one counseling! Whether you are new to counseling or continuing your journey, whether you are a concerned parent or simply an adult struggling to manage the chaos of everyday life, I believe that finding the right therapist with whom you can most connect with is one of the most important parts of the therapeutic process. I commend you on being brave enough to take those steps and for valuing your emotional health enough to do the work on becoming your best self.
When we were young, some of us learned not to show our emotions, cry, or talk about our problems. But the truth is that we are vulnerable, we have feelings, and we are human. If you are here, you are probably overthinking about your past or present, undergoing major life transitions, experiencing relationship hardships, or feeling sad and hopeless. Sometimes life can be chaotic, and it can be difficult not to receive support and validation from the people around us.
When we were young, some of us learned not to show our emotions, cry, or talk about our problems. But the truth is that we are vulnerable, we have feelings, and we are human. If you are here, you are probably overthinking about your past or present, undergoing major life transitions, experiencing relationship hardships, or feeling sad and hopeless. Sometimes life can be chaotic, and it can be difficult not to receive support and validation from the people around us.
Don't you love when your doctor tells you to "reduce the stress in your life". Life in general is stressful, right? Relationships can become stressful. Work can be stressful. Kids can be stressful. Anxiety, depression, anger, frustration, and lack of effective ways to cope will influence your need for counseling. Everyone needs someone to vent to and therapy provides you not only with a way to express your frustrations, but it also helps you learn how to cope better with the things that stress you out! Eliminating stress is impossible however learning better ways to cope is not impossible, I can help you work on it.
Don't you love when your doctor tells you to "reduce the stress in your life". Life in general is stressful, right? Relationships can become stressful. Work can be stressful. Kids can be stressful. Anxiety, depression, anger, frustration, and lack of effective ways to cope will influence your need for counseling. Everyone needs someone to vent to and therapy provides you not only with a way to express your frustrations, but it also helps you learn how to cope better with the things that stress you out! Eliminating stress is impossible however learning better ways to cope is not impossible, I can help you work on it.
Hello, my name is Cheryl Rittfeldt. I am a multilingual, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden. I believe that healing is a collective venture that requires honest caring without judgment. I cooperatively assist clients in identifying their goals. Rather than adopting one methodology for all individuals and issues, I gather from a variety of methods to generate a suited strategy. I have experience working with young children, adolescents, teens, couples, and adults. Hola, Yo hablo Espanol
Hello, my name is Cheryl Rittfeldt. I am a multilingual, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden. I believe that healing is a collective venture that requires honest caring without judgment. I cooperatively assist clients in identifying their goals. Rather than adopting one methodology for all individuals and issues, I gather from a variety of methods to generate a suited strategy. I have experience working with young children, adolescents, teens, couples, and adults. Hola, Yo hablo Espanol
Let's invent together a way beyond your suffering or problematic repetitions. I use creative language play to release unconscious tensions manifesting as symptoms. In psychoanalysis you can elevate your agency by recognizing your own unfolding processes without the pressure to change. My attention will be focused on the linguistic and homophonous patterns of your unconscious as manifested in your speech, with the aim of distilling the suffering from your words and possibly producing a creative practice in its stead. To that end I will invite you to speak.
Let's invent together a way beyond your suffering or problematic repetitions. I use creative language play to release unconscious tensions manifesting as symptoms. In psychoanalysis you can elevate your agency by recognizing your own unfolding processes without the pressure to change. My attention will be focused on the linguistic and homophonous patterns of your unconscious as manifested in your speech, with the aim of distilling the suffering from your words and possibly producing a creative practice in its stead. To that end I will invite you to speak.
I have worked to create an integrated, evidence-based, and holistic group practice where my vision of the ideal environment for growth can unfold. The associates in the practice have diverse backgrounds, interests, and training. No matter what problem or difficulty with which you present, someone in our group can assist you. We have cultivated an environment of peace, warmth, and acceptance to assure you will be respected, unconditionally.
I have worked to create an integrated, evidence-based, and holistic group practice where my vision of the ideal environment for growth can unfold. The associates in the practice have diverse backgrounds, interests, and training. No matter what problem or difficulty with which you present, someone in our group can assist you. We have cultivated an environment of peace, warmth, and acceptance to assure you will be respected, unconditionally.
My therapy motto is "find what works for you". With 23 years of experience working in the mental health field and 17 years of experience working as a therapist we might be a good fit. And if we aren't? No worries!
My therapy motto is "find what works for you". With 23 years of experience working in the mental health field and 17 years of experience working as a therapist we might be a good fit. And if we aren't? No worries!
Life becomes stressful sometimes, and societal pressure combined with changes, expectations, and conflicts are only some of the triggers that may induce stress, insomnia, anger, sadness, further conflicts, and at times uncontrollable overwhelm. You are not alone in feeling this way. My mission as a therapist is to remind you that you are safe, and to help you receive the support you may need outside of the one you may currently have from friends, family members, and loved ones.
Life becomes stressful sometimes, and societal pressure combined with changes, expectations, and conflicts are only some of the triggers that may induce stress, insomnia, anger, sadness, further conflicts, and at times uncontrollable overwhelm. You are not alone in feeling this way. My mission as a therapist is to remind you that you are safe, and to help you receive the support you may need outside of the one you may currently have from friends, family members, and loved ones.
Online Therapists
Kenzi Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-PA, LMSW-NY, CCTP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As the founder of ETA Therapy and someone that identifies as a first-generation, Queer, Non-Binary, Black and spiritual being, I see the healing space as a transformative space where folx can step in and tap in to those parts of yourself that can really help to facilitate the connection between mind, body, and heart.
I use experiential interventions like role play, music, art and dramatic acting to help you discover who you are and find out how to express outwardly what you feel inside. I also incorporate somatic based interventions, CBT techniques, IFS, Narrative Therapy, and tend to incorporate humor into sessions as a form of healing.
As the founder of ETA Therapy and someone that identifies as a first-generation, Queer, Non-Binary, Black and spiritual being, I see the healing space as a transformative space where folx can step in and tap in to those parts of yourself that can really help to facilitate the connection between mind, body, and heart.
I use experiential interventions like role play, music, art and dramatic acting to help you discover who you are and find out how to express outwardly what you feel inside. I also incorporate somatic based interventions, CBT techniques, IFS, Narrative Therapy, and tend to incorporate humor into sessions as a form of healing.
I work with clients across the lifespan and especially welcome Black and Brown individuals, where emotional and mental safet have been deprived.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your emotions, stuck in old relationship patterns, or trying to make sense of your past? Maybe you’re someone who holds it together for everyone else but feels lost or invisible when it comes to your own needs. If you’re navigating trauma, life transitions, anxiety, or relational struggles, I’m here to walk with you.
I help people explore what’s underneath the surface—how your relationships, environment, culture, and personal history shape your inner world. Whether you’re dealing with intense trauma or the slow ache of anxiety and disconnection, we’ll work together to name and understand the emotions.
I work with clients across the lifespan and especially welcome Black and Brown individuals, where emotional and mental safet have been deprived.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your emotions, stuck in old relationship patterns, or trying to make sense of your past? Maybe you’re someone who holds it together for everyone else but feels lost or invisible when it comes to your own needs. If you’re navigating trauma, life transitions, anxiety, or relational struggles, I’m here to walk with you.
I help people explore what’s underneath the surface—how your relationships, environment, culture, and personal history shape your inner world. Whether you’re dealing with intense trauma or the slow ache of anxiety and disconnection, we’ll work together to name and understand the emotions.
I understand that seeking therapy can be a vulnerable and courageous step and as a black male therapist, I prioritize creating a space that is affirming, safe, and non-judgmental to clients of all backgrounds.
Welcome to my Psychology Today profile! My goal, as a therapist, is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your emotions, behaviors, and experiences in life. My passion in my therapy work centers around helping people navigate the challenges of living with Adult ADHD, Anxiety, CPTSD, Trauma, Codependency, and Communication/trust issues in relationships. I also have had success in treating erectile dysfunction concerns. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, but I also recognize the importance of tailoring treatment to each individual's specific needs and values.
I understand that seeking therapy can be a vulnerable and courageous step and as a black male therapist, I prioritize creating a space that is affirming, safe, and non-judgmental to clients of all backgrounds.
Welcome to my Psychology Today profile! My goal, as a therapist, is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your emotions, behaviors, and experiences in life. My passion in my therapy work centers around helping people navigate the challenges of living with Adult ADHD, Anxiety, CPTSD, Trauma, Codependency, and Communication/trust issues in relationships. I also have had success in treating erectile dysfunction concerns. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, but I also recognize the importance of tailoring treatment to each individual's specific needs and values.
As a Black, non-binary, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of wide-ranging clinical and field experience, I look forward to tailoring my approach to meet your needs and help you reach your goals.
Research shows that therapy is much more useful when it involves having a set plan for what you hope to achieve or accomplish. In our initial sessions, we will collaborate to identify SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time Specific) goals that will serve as a roadmap for your treatment.
As a Black, non-binary, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of wide-ranging clinical and field experience, I look forward to tailoring my approach to meet your needs and help you reach your goals.
Research shows that therapy is much more useful when it involves having a set plan for what you hope to achieve or accomplish. In our initial sessions, we will collaborate to identify SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time Specific) goals that will serve as a roadmap for your treatment.
As a Black woman therapist, I understand the importance of feeling seen, understood, and supported in spaces that don’t always reflect our lived experiences.
Life can be overwhelming, and sometimes, we find ourselves stuck in patterns that no longer serve us. My work is rooted in comprehensive wellness, addressing not just emotional well-being but also exploring how factors like stress, identity, and cultural experiences shape our mental, physical, social, and spiritual health. I believe that true healing goes beyond just talking about problems and past traumas; it involves creating sustainable habits, building self-awareness, and learning how to navigate challenges with confidence and clarity.
As a Black woman therapist, I understand the importance of feeling seen, understood, and supported in spaces that don’t always reflect our lived experiences.
Life can be overwhelming, and sometimes, we find ourselves stuck in patterns that no longer serve us. My work is rooted in comprehensive wellness, addressing not just emotional well-being but also exploring how factors like stress, identity, and cultural experiences shape our mental, physical, social, and spiritual health. I believe that true healing goes beyond just talking about problems and past traumas; it involves creating sustainable habits, building self-awareness, and learning how to navigate challenges with confidence and clarity.
Are you looking for therapy that feels more human, or maybe you’re having a hard time finding a Black or LGBTQ+ therapist?
Our therapeutic relationship is a priority to me. I strive to create a space that is nurturing, safe, and affirming. My style can be described as non-directive (or "Person-Centered"), but I also draw inspiration from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Are you looking for therapy that feels more human, or maybe you’re having a hard time finding a Black or LGBTQ+ therapist?
Our therapeutic relationship is a priority to me. I strive to create a space that is nurturing, safe, and affirming. My style can be described as non-directive (or "Person-Centered"), but I also draw inspiration from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy.
As a Black/multiracial therapist I am committed to providing a warm, affirming and safe space for fellow BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Attending to our mental health in this climate is crucial to improving our lives, I want to first acknowledge the courage it takes to begin therapy. I believe that you hold the power and strength to change your own life. Through therapy we can explore past experiences which influence behaviors while building a framework to cope and move forward.
As a Black/multiracial therapist I am committed to providing a warm, affirming and safe space for fellow BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Attending to our mental health in this climate is crucial to improving our lives, I want to first acknowledge the courage it takes to begin therapy. I believe that you hold the power and strength to change your own life. Through therapy we can explore past experiences which influence behaviors while building a framework to cope and move forward.
See more therapy options for Luzerne County
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.