Black and African American Therapists in Austin, TX

Photo of Jane Chioma Obi, MA, NCC
Jane Chioma Obi
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78705
As a Black woman in America, I know what it is like to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders.
Are you juggling multiple roles—whether as a family member, a professional / student, or a creative who marches to the beat of their own drum? I see you. You might be struggling with imposter phenomenon or burnt-out from perfectionism. Maybe you are dealing with a tough transition and unsure if you can keep up the superwoman act. Or, family expectations are becoming too much. The point is: You. Are. Exhausted. Leading to anxiety, shame, isolation, poor health, & low self-esteem. If feelings like "I'm not good enough", "I don't belong", or "I don't even know who I am", keep you from experiencing true rest, know you’re not alone.
As a Black woman in America, I know what it is like to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders.
Are you juggling multiple roles—whether as a family member, a professional / student, or a creative who marches to the beat of their own drum? I see you. You might be struggling with imposter phenomenon or burnt-out from perfectionism. Maybe you are dealing with a tough transition and unsure if you can keep up the superwoman act. Or, family expectations are becoming too much. The point is: You. Are. Exhausted. Leading to anxiety, shame, isolation, poor health, & low self-esteem. If feelings like "I'm not good enough", "I don't belong", or "I don't even know who I am", keep you from experiencing true rest, know you’re not alone.
(512) 270-1887 View (512) 270-1887
Photo of Jasmine Jenkins, PhD, Psychologist
Jasmine Jenkins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am the 1st Black DBT-Linehan Board Certified therapist in the state of Texas (and I practice in 40+ states), and I conduct DBT training through the Treatment Implementation Collaborative (TIC).
Hi! I’m Dr. Jasmine Jenkins, but my clients usually call me Jasmine, Doc, or Dr. J. I am a multiculturally focused licensed psychologist and the founder of Rejuvenate! I specialize in group treatment for people of color who want to heal, learn new skills, and build a life of wellness. Although I am currently focused on groups, in individual therapy, I work with people who: 1) “just need a person/professional to talk to,” 2) Desire help with mild mental health symptoms, 3) Struggle with emotion regulation and/or want to find a reason to stay alive. → these individuals usually benefit from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I am the 1st Black DBT-Linehan Board Certified therapist in the state of Texas (and I practice in 40+ states), and I conduct DBT training through the Treatment Implementation Collaborative (TIC).
Hi! I’m Dr. Jasmine Jenkins, but my clients usually call me Jasmine, Doc, or Dr. J. I am a multiculturally focused licensed psychologist and the founder of Rejuvenate! I specialize in group treatment for people of color who want to heal, learn new skills, and build a life of wellness. Although I am currently focused on groups, in individual therapy, I work with people who: 1) “just need a person/professional to talk to,” 2) Desire help with mild mental health symptoms, 3) Struggle with emotion regulation and/or want to find a reason to stay alive. → these individuals usually benefit from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
(512) 607-7894 View (512) 607-7894
Photo of Edith Juanah, MS, LPC-A, ATR-P
Edith Juanah
LPC Associate, MS, LPC-A, ATR-P
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Queer, Black woman, I understand too well the difficulty of finding welcoming spaces that center the voices of our communities.
Have you struggled with self identity or making sense of your experiences? Have you experienced trauma based on your race, gender, or other intersectional identities? Have you struggled to find spaces where you feel empowered or a sense of belonging? If so, I want to say that you are not alone in your struggles and I am proud of you for making the first step in seeking help! Often times, when you have experienced trauma, it can be difficult to find spaces where you can shift through your emotions safely, explore your lived experiences, or feel connected to others/yourself.
As a Queer, Black woman, I understand too well the difficulty of finding welcoming spaces that center the voices of our communities.
Have you struggled with self identity or making sense of your experiences? Have you experienced trauma based on your race, gender, or other intersectional identities? Have you struggled to find spaces where you feel empowered or a sense of belonging? If so, I want to say that you are not alone in your struggles and I am proud of you for making the first step in seeking help! Often times, when you have experienced trauma, it can be difficult to find spaces where you can shift through your emotions safely, explore your lived experiences, or feel connected to others/yourself.
(737) 265-7330 View (737) 265-7330
Photo of Malyndi West, MEd, LPC, LCDC-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Malyndi West
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701
Therapy can seem intimidating! Everyone is talking about it, but what can you expect? At ReThink, you can expect a warm safe atmosphere to lay down that baggage you've been carrying. You can expect to feel seen and heard without judgment. You can feel empowered to achieve your goals. Allow me to walk alongside you on this incredible journey! As a Black therapist, I'm passionate about offering representation to clients who don't often see themselves reflected in their healthcare providers.
Therapy can seem intimidating! Everyone is talking about it, but what can you expect? At ReThink, you can expect a warm safe atmosphere to lay down that baggage you've been carrying. You can expect to feel seen and heard without judgment. You can feel empowered to achieve your goals. Allow me to walk alongside you on this incredible journey! As a Black therapist, I'm passionate about offering representation to clients who don't often see themselves reflected in their healthcare providers.
(512) 982-9343 View (512) 982-9343
Photo of Bri Craig, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bri Craig
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701
Hello and welcome! I'm so glad you've landed on my profile. As a Black queer therapist, I recognize the necessity to provide culturally empowering services. Some of my passions include working with BIPOC, LGBTQ+ folx, neurodivergence, and those looking to process relational trauma. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families on a number of different presenting concerns. (I am currently taking new clients, however, I have limited availability at this time. Please indicate your preferred meeting time for sessions if you decide to reach out. I will do my best to accommodate you! Thanks!)
Hello and welcome! I'm so glad you've landed on my profile. As a Black queer therapist, I recognize the necessity to provide culturally empowering services. Some of my passions include working with BIPOC, LGBTQ+ folx, neurodivergence, and those looking to process relational trauma. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families on a number of different presenting concerns. (I am currently taking new clients, however, I have limited availability at this time. Please indicate your preferred meeting time for sessions if you decide to reach out. I will do my best to accommodate you! Thanks!)
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Photo of Marvin Hughes, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marvin Hughes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
Waitlist for new clients
Being a Black German American provides me with a unique understanding of those cultures in which I intersect.
Hey Y'all I'm Marvin! Some of my passions include working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ folks. I enjoy working with individuals and couples. I have additional training on Emotion Focused Therapy allowing me to connect with attachment needs and help heal through establishing a secure attachment in relationships.
Being a Black German American provides me with a unique understanding of those cultures in which I intersect.
Hey Y'all I'm Marvin! Some of my passions include working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ folks. I enjoy working with individuals and couples. I have additional training on Emotion Focused Therapy allowing me to connect with attachment needs and help heal through establishing a secure attachment in relationships.
(512) 489-9390 View (512) 489-9390
Photo of Marlon Johnson, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marlon Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Finding a counselor can be challenging, especially for individuals who identify as queer or trans, African American or Latinx American, young or young-at-heart.
Hello. I hope to support individuals managing racial and cultural trauma. I specialize in my work with Black individuals, my Queer and Trans family, and the various concerns we face at the intersection of our personal and professional identities. I provide culturally-inclusive care and spiritually-integrated support for those seeking meaning-making in their therapeutic process. I'm open to processing whatever energy exists in your search for the sacred. If your goals are to address feelings of anxiety, depression, racial and ethnic trauma, church hurt, or sexual identity issues, I'm here to help.
Finding a counselor can be challenging, especially for individuals who identify as queer or trans, African American or Latinx American, young or young-at-heart.
Hello. I hope to support individuals managing racial and cultural trauma. I specialize in my work with Black individuals, my Queer and Trans family, and the various concerns we face at the intersection of our personal and professional identities. I provide culturally-inclusive care and spiritually-integrated support for those seeking meaning-making in their therapeutic process. I'm open to processing whatever energy exists in your search for the sacred. If your goals are to address feelings of anxiety, depression, racial and ethnic trauma, church hurt, or sexual identity issues, I'm here to help.
(512) 548-4522 View (512) 548-4522
Photo of Tryna Jackson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tryna Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78751
Welcome to a space where healing is nurtured, and self-discovery is celebrated. I am Tryna Jackson, a compassionate and dedicated Black therapist committed to guiding you on your journey of exploring your inner child. In our sessions, you will find a warm and inviting atmosphere where your experiences, emotions, and unique identity are not only acknowledged but cherished. I understand the importance of representation in therapy, and I am here to create a safe space where you can feel seen, heard, and understood.
Welcome to a space where healing is nurtured, and self-discovery is celebrated. I am Tryna Jackson, a compassionate and dedicated Black therapist committed to guiding you on your journey of exploring your inner child. In our sessions, you will find a warm and inviting atmosphere where your experiences, emotions, and unique identity are not only acknowledged but cherished. I understand the importance of representation in therapy, and I am here to create a safe space where you can feel seen, heard, and understood.
(512) 866-6689 View (512) 866-6689
Photo of Crystal Caviel, LPC-A, MA
Crystal Caviel
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701
As a Black woman at the intersections of neurodivergence, chronic illness, queerness, and motherhood, I know the importance of being seen holistically.
At my core, I believe in liberation- on a collective and individual level. Freedom from all systems of oppression, and freedom from the ghosts of trauma that haunt us. I am deeply interested in intergenerational/ ancestral trauma, releasing trauma from the body via Somatic Experiencing, and compassion-focused narrative therapy. I follow my intuition and guidance and welcome your ancestral/ cultural methods.
As a Black woman at the intersections of neurodivergence, chronic illness, queerness, and motherhood, I know the importance of being seen holistically.
At my core, I believe in liberation- on a collective and individual level. Freedom from all systems of oppression, and freedom from the ghosts of trauma that haunt us. I am deeply interested in intergenerational/ ancestral trauma, releasing trauma from the body via Somatic Experiencing, and compassion-focused narrative therapy. I follow my intuition and guidance and welcome your ancestral/ cultural methods.
(737) 367-2861 View (737) 367-2861
Photo of Nicole M. Williams, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole M. Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78748
I particularly enjoy working with clients of color ( Black and Latinx).
Welcome! If you are sitting at your computer perusing therapy websites, I applaud you for taking the first step and having the courage to consider whether taking a therapeutic journey is the right decision for your life. While taking this journey is not easy, I fully believe that delegating time to work on ourselves allows us to grow in a mindful and self-accepting way. Psychotherapy is not a "one size fits all process." Instead, psychotherapy should be tailored to the client. Psychotherapy is about meeting you where you are at and working towards your goals in order for you to obtain the life you desire.
I particularly enjoy working with clients of color ( Black and Latinx).
Welcome! If you are sitting at your computer perusing therapy websites, I applaud you for taking the first step and having the courage to consider whether taking a therapeutic journey is the right decision for your life. While taking this journey is not easy, I fully believe that delegating time to work on ourselves allows us to grow in a mindful and self-accepting way. Psychotherapy is not a "one size fits all process." Instead, psychotherapy should be tailored to the client. Psychotherapy is about meeting you where you are at and working towards your goals in order for you to obtain the life you desire.
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Photo of Brittany Lynell Lee, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Lynell Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
When we experience trauma or severe life stressors, it is common to feel like our lives are unravelling. My greatest passion as a black female therapist is bringing understanding and healing to those who have been through a traumatic/stressful experience or struggle with chronic mental/developmental health challenges. I want to be a breath of fresh air for my therapy clients in Texas! My approach is interactive, warm, and accepting. I cultivate a therapeutic environment that makes my clients feel safe, heard, and understood so they can begin their therapeutic journey of finding peace, healing, and new beginnings.
When we experience trauma or severe life stressors, it is common to feel like our lives are unravelling. My greatest passion as a black female therapist is bringing understanding and healing to those who have been through a traumatic/stressful experience or struggle with chronic mental/developmental health challenges. I want to be a breath of fresh air for my therapy clients in Texas! My approach is interactive, warm, and accepting. I cultivate a therapeutic environment that makes my clients feel safe, heard, and understood so they can begin their therapeutic journey of finding peace, healing, and new beginnings.
(832) 783-9581 View (832) 783-9581
Photo of Laurie Gamble, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Gamble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
I enjoy therapy centered around Black, Indeginous, people of color (BIPOC), Immigrant & First Generation Challenges, Millennial Women, Mindfulness & Self-Compassion, and Anxiety Management.
Hi there! I’m excited that you’ve chosen to add therapy to part of your self-care. I was raised by my Korean immigrant grandmother and Black grandfather. This informs a lot of my therapeutic approach. I believe we have to approach healing through a holistic lens and view each person as a part of many systems including their family, community, culture, religion, society, and others. Intersectionality helps us understand that we are more than one “thing.” At all times we are carrying and accessing multiple parts of our identity that mix to form something beautifully complex– YOU!
I enjoy therapy centered around Black, Indeginous, people of color (BIPOC), Immigrant & First Generation Challenges, Millennial Women, Mindfulness & Self-Compassion, and Anxiety Management.
Hi there! I’m excited that you’ve chosen to add therapy to part of your self-care. I was raised by my Korean immigrant grandmother and Black grandfather. This informs a lot of my therapeutic approach. I believe we have to approach healing through a holistic lens and view each person as a part of many systems including their family, community, culture, religion, society, and others. Intersectionality helps us understand that we are more than one “thing.” At all times we are carrying and accessing multiple parts of our identity that mix to form something beautifully complex– YOU!
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Danisha C. Baro, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Danisha C. Baro
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Being a child of Black Dominican and Cuban immigrants, I deeply understand the challenges that come with adapting to new environments, trauma, systems of oppression, and cultural norms.
Step into a honest space where your journey of self-discovery and growth is met with warmth, direct feedback and compassion. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, you're welcomed with empathy and tools to navigate life's challenges. Together, we'll embark on a path towards clarity, healthier patterns, and a renewed sense of purpose, empowering you to embrace authenticity and find deep inner peace. I am a bilingual (Spanish) psychotherapist licensed in both New York and Texas, and presently a doctoral candidate in Counseling Psychology at New Mexico State University.
Being a child of Black Dominican and Cuban immigrants, I deeply understand the challenges that come with adapting to new environments, trauma, systems of oppression, and cultural norms.
Step into a honest space where your journey of self-discovery and growth is met with warmth, direct feedback and compassion. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, you're welcomed with empathy and tools to navigate life's challenges. Together, we'll embark on a path towards clarity, healthier patterns, and a renewed sense of purpose, empowering you to embrace authenticity and find deep inner peace. I am a bilingual (Spanish) psychotherapist licensed in both New York and Texas, and presently a doctoral candidate in Counseling Psychology at New Mexico State University.
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Photo of Brittany Hatcher, LMSW, LCDC-I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Hatcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78745
I have experience with individuals and families from all walks of life, specifically those that identify as being a part of the military community, single parents, LGBTQ+, Black and Indigenous/People of Color.
Welcome, I’m Brittany and I am currently accepting NEW patients! As an African-American LMSW and LCDC-I, I work with Adults (18+) that are struggling with depression and adjustment disorders related to stress, grief, life transitions or trauma. I also help treat anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD and relationship issues. My goal is to help you navigate a world that can be overwhelming. We all know that at times, life has a way of just piling on one thing after another, making it difficult to remain true to who we are. My purpose is to empower you to embrace your emotions, feelings and thoughts to help you gain a better sense of self.
I have experience with individuals and families from all walks of life, specifically those that identify as being a part of the military community, single parents, LGBTQ+, Black and Indigenous/People of Color.
Welcome, I’m Brittany and I am currently accepting NEW patients! As an African-American LMSW and LCDC-I, I work with Adults (18+) that are struggling with depression and adjustment disorders related to stress, grief, life transitions or trauma. I also help treat anxiety disorders, PTSD, ADHD and relationship issues. My goal is to help you navigate a world that can be overwhelming. We all know that at times, life has a way of just piling on one thing after another, making it difficult to remain true to who we are. My purpose is to empower you to embrace your emotions, feelings and thoughts to help you gain a better sense of self.
(512) 688-6510 View (512) 688-6510
Photo of Samuel Cotton, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samuel Cotton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Online Only
Clients come to me looking for a Black therapist because therapy is a place you should feel comfortable, safe, and understood.
Do you find yourself feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed no matter what you do? You may be fed up with how anxiety is affecting your relationships, your peace of mind, and your physical health. You may not remember the last time you felt like yourself. One thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to feel calmer and more grounded. You're ready to have better, more emotionally connected relationships. Most of all, you're ready to feel like yourself again.
Clients come to me looking for a Black therapist because therapy is a place you should feel comfortable, safe, and understood.
Do you find yourself feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed no matter what you do? You may be fed up with how anxiety is affecting your relationships, your peace of mind, and your physical health. You may not remember the last time you felt like yourself. One thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to feel calmer and more grounded. You're ready to have better, more emotionally connected relationships. Most of all, you're ready to feel like yourself again.
(972) 362-6465 View (972) 362-6465
Photo of Libby Lee, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Libby Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm Libby, a licensed Psychotherapist in Wisconsin and Texas, committed to guiding individuals on their path to mental wellness. I offer compassionate, evidence-based care with a focus on anxiety, depression, and family trauma. As a Black female therapist, I understand the stigma surrounding mental health in Black and Brown communities, shaped by cultural representation and the fear of sharing personal stories. The biggest challenge is SILENCE! Many people suffer in isolation, continuing unhealthy generational patterns. My mission is to break these cycles by fostering a supportive environment for healing.
I'm Libby, a licensed Psychotherapist in Wisconsin and Texas, committed to guiding individuals on their path to mental wellness. I offer compassionate, evidence-based care with a focus on anxiety, depression, and family trauma. As a Black female therapist, I understand the stigma surrounding mental health in Black and Brown communities, shaped by cultural representation and the fear of sharing personal stories. The biggest challenge is SILENCE! Many people suffer in isolation, continuing unhealthy generational patterns. My mission is to break these cycles by fostering a supportive environment for healing.
(608) 200-2159 View (608) 200-2159
Photo of Dr. Justyn Smith, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Justyn Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701
My identity as a Gay Black Man gives me a unique passion as therapist and deep empathy in supporting the LGBTQ population with coming out, managing relationships and growing in self-acceptance. I work with a variety of presenting concerns and populations; however, my specialization is working with Gay Men, BIPOC and the LGBTQ+ community. I provide support and a nonjudgmental environment for you to process, explore and talk through your concerns. In counseling you can get tools and skills to make life changes or use the space to let out your thoughts and vocalize your stress. I also provide Supervision for LPC Associates.
My identity as a Gay Black Man gives me a unique passion as therapist and deep empathy in supporting the LGBTQ population with coming out, managing relationships and growing in self-acceptance. I work with a variety of presenting concerns and populations; however, my specialization is working with Gay Men, BIPOC and the LGBTQ+ community. I provide support and a nonjudgmental environment for you to process, explore and talk through your concerns. In counseling you can get tools and skills to make life changes or use the space to let out your thoughts and vocalize your stress. I also provide Supervision for LPC Associates.
(254) 274-5683 View (254) 274-5683
Photo of James Greathouse, LPC-A, NCC
James Greathouse
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Specialization: therapy for Black men, therapy for artists and creatives, and a safe and judgment-free space for men.
As a therapist, my ideal client is someone who is looking to address both their physical symptoms and emotional struggles. They may be dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or other concerns, and are looking for a holistic approach to treatment. They understand the importance of addressing their emotions and life experiences in addition to their physical symptoms. They have specific goals in mind, whether it be managing stress more effectively or overcoming past traumas, and are motivated to take action towards achieving them. They want to understand their thoughts, behaviors, and motivations to improve their overall well-being.
Specialization: therapy for Black men, therapy for artists and creatives, and a safe and judgment-free space for men.
As a therapist, my ideal client is someone who is looking to address both their physical symptoms and emotional struggles. They may be dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or other concerns, and are looking for a holistic approach to treatment. They understand the importance of addressing their emotions and life experiences in addition to their physical symptoms. They have specific goals in mind, whether it be managing stress more effectively or overcoming past traumas, and are motivated to take action towards achieving them. They want to understand their thoughts, behaviors, and motivations to improve their overall well-being.
(713) 597-5641 View (713) 597-5641
Photo of Michael Jackson, MA, NCC, LPC-A, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michael Jackson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704
As an African American, male-identified therapist, I bring a trauma-informed lens to my work. I am particularly passionate about working with individuals who are stigmatized against seeking therapy. I am an empathetic and skilled therapist, committed to helping my clients heal and grow. I enjoy working with individuals and couples and working together to heal, grow, regulate, and bolster individual value and develop healthy relationships with healthy boundaries. I believe counseling brings great value to the person or couple who decide to do the work. I'd love to help you define and reach your counseling goals.
As an African American, male-identified therapist, I bring a trauma-informed lens to my work. I am particularly passionate about working with individuals who are stigmatized against seeking therapy. I am an empathetic and skilled therapist, committed to helping my clients heal and grow. I enjoy working with individuals and couples and working together to heal, grow, regulate, and bolster individual value and develop healthy relationships with healthy boundaries. I believe counseling brings great value to the person or couple who decide to do the work. I'd love to help you define and reach your counseling goals.
(512) 957-2197 View (512) 957-2197
Photo of Canaan Baker, MA, LCDC, BCPCC
Canaan Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LCDC, BCPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am a therapist, life coach and self-published author that is passionate about mental health awareness, especially within the African-American community! I am a fully Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) for the state of Texas and a Board Certified Professional Christian Counselor (BCPCC) through the International Board of Christian Care. As a Christian counselor, I hope to help bridge the gap between faith and psychology. I am also currently pursuing licensure as a Professional Counselor (LPC Associate) for the state of Texas under the supervision of Kacey Vasquez, PhD-C, LPC-S, NCC.
I am a therapist, life coach and self-published author that is passionate about mental health awareness, especially within the African-American community! I am a fully Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) for the state of Texas and a Board Certified Professional Christian Counselor (BCPCC) through the International Board of Christian Care. As a Christian counselor, I hope to help bridge the gap between faith and psychology. I am also currently pursuing licensure as a Professional Counselor (LPC Associate) for the state of Texas under the supervision of Kacey Vasquez, PhD-C, LPC-S, NCC.
(469) 336-3660 View (469) 336-3660
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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.