Black and African American Therapists in Culpeper, VA

Photo of Arminda Cheshier-Perch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Arminda Cheshier-Perch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or stuck? You do not have to carry it alone. I work with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, intrusive or racy thoughts, and the impacts of trauma. I offer a supportive space where you can feel understood while we focus on practical steps to ease distress and help you feel more grounded and confident in daily life. I provide telehealth for adults in VA, MD, DC, and AL, accept many insurance plans, and offer Board-Approved supervision for Virginia social work LCSW supervisees.
Feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or stuck? You do not have to carry it alone. I work with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, intrusive or racy thoughts, and the impacts of trauma. I offer a supportive space where you can feel understood while we focus on practical steps to ease distress and help you feel more grounded and confident in daily life. I provide telehealth for adults in VA, MD, DC, and AL, accept many insurance plans, and offer Board-Approved supervision for Virginia social work LCSW supervisees.
(540) 469-5148 View (540) 469-5148
Photo of Angelique Lawrence, Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, CASAC, MAMP, DM
Angelique Lawrence
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, CASAC, MAMP, DM
Serves Area
You do not have to suffer alone another day. I can help you reach your mental health wellness goals. I am excited and honored to assist you on your journey to emotional maturation. Let's pull up our sleeves to do the work necessary to reroute your current life path. You CAN experience greater states of peace, joy, fulfillment, and relational wholeness. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you feeling stressed? Are you struggling with the next phase of your life? Are you having difficulty communicating with your partner? Are you in need of hope? I can help! I have extensive experience working with couples, adolescents, and families with
You do not have to suffer alone another day. I can help you reach your mental health wellness goals. I am excited and honored to assist you on your journey to emotional maturation. Let's pull up our sleeves to do the work necessary to reroute your current life path. You CAN experience greater states of peace, joy, fulfillment, and relational wholeness. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you feeling stressed? Are you struggling with the next phase of your life? Are you having difficulty communicating with your partner? Are you in need of hope? I can help! I have extensive experience working with couples, adolescents, and families with
(571) 200-7393 View (571) 200-7393
Photo of Dr. Tisha Juggins - Inspired Life Psychological Services, Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Inspired Life Psychological Services
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Greetings! You’re here because you’ve been asking yourself, Do I have anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, Bipolar, OCD, or is this just my personality? Despite your best efforts, you're still unsure. We specialize in trauma-informed psychological assessments that go beyond surface symptoms to uncover the full picture, whether it’s undiagnosed ADHD, the impact of trauma, or complex psycholegal questions. Together, we explore the root cause and develop clear, actionable steps. With every evaluation, we offer accommodations tailored to your needs. Whether you need extra breaks or an altered work or school schedule, we are here to help.
Greetings! You’re here because you’ve been asking yourself, Do I have anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, Bipolar, OCD, or is this just my personality? Despite your best efforts, you're still unsure. We specialize in trauma-informed psychological assessments that go beyond surface symptoms to uncover the full picture, whether it’s undiagnosed ADHD, the impact of trauma, or complex psycholegal questions. Together, we explore the root cause and develop clear, actionable steps. With every evaluation, we offer accommodations tailored to your needs. Whether you need extra breaks or an altered work or school schedule, we are here to help.
(540) 779-1250 View (540) 779-1250
Photo of Jamaal A. Crone - SoulSeed Counseling & Consulting, Licensed Professional Counselor, MAR, MEd, LPC
SoulSeed Counseling & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAR, MEd, LPC
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you're searching for a psychotherapist who can hold the complexity of who you are; your history, your culture, your sexuality, your faith, your grief, and your desire to grow into someone more fully yourself, you've clicked on the right profile. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and doctoral student in Counselor Education and Supervision, with a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Master of Arts in Religion. My work exists at the intersection of lived experience, rigorous clinical training, and a lifelong study of anthropology, theology, philosophy, and the human search for meaning.
If you're searching for a psychotherapist who can hold the complexity of who you are; your history, your culture, your sexuality, your faith, your grief, and your desire to grow into someone more fully yourself, you've clicked on the right profile. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and doctoral student in Counselor Education and Supervision, with a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Master of Arts in Religion. My work exists at the intersection of lived experience, rigorous clinical training, and a lifelong study of anthropology, theology, philosophy, and the human search for meaning.
(202) 875-5176 View (202) 875-5176
Photo of Elayne Smithcchcva - The Center for Connection, Healing and Change, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
The Center for Connection, Healing and Change
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
We specialize in relationships and the profound way they shape us - through comfort, validation, and joy, as well as the pain, unmet needs, or patterns that keep us from the secure connections we long for. You may notice yourself always putting others first, striving to be perfect, or working hard to feel “enough.” You might avoid conflict, silence your needs, or carry everything on your own. If you are vulnerable to anxiety, depression, burnout, overfunctioning, or low self-worth, we have a map for lasting change. Whatever your relationship story or attachment style, our skilled therapists can help you create the life you deserve.
We specialize in relationships and the profound way they shape us - through comfort, validation, and joy, as well as the pain, unmet needs, or patterns that keep us from the secure connections we long for. You may notice yourself always putting others first, striving to be perfect, or working hard to feel “enough.” You might avoid conflict, silence your needs, or carry everything on your own. If you are vulnerable to anxiety, depression, burnout, overfunctioning, or low self-worth, we have a map for lasting change. Whatever your relationship story or attachment style, our skilled therapists can help you create the life you deserve.
(540) 515-4748 View (540) 515-4748
Photo of Chalita Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCs, CSOTP, PhD(s)
Chalita Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCs, CSOTP, PhD(s)
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I am Chalita. I am a Christian-Based Licensed Professional Counselor, Clinical Supervisor and a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider, with over 20 years of experience in the field and providing mental health clinical services for a variety of settings including home-based services, community-based services, school settings, correctional, and residential group homes. Do you suffer from anxiety or depression? Do you feel pulled in many different directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself?
Hi, I am Chalita. I am a Christian-Based Licensed Professional Counselor, Clinical Supervisor and a Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider, with over 20 years of experience in the field and providing mental health clinical services for a variety of settings including home-based services, community-based services, school settings, correctional, and residential group homes. Do you suffer from anxiety or depression? Do you feel pulled in many different directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself?
(540) 405-6506 View (540) 405-6506
Photo of Robert D Fai - Pederec INC, PhD, BCBA, LBA
Pederec INC
Verified Verified
Culpeper, VA 22701
PEDEREC INC. is an ABA Therapy and Consultancy Services company that works with families to meet families’ needs by providing practical ABA therapy services for children diagnosed with autism and related disorders. Pederec Inc. strives to improve lives, one family at a time. Our services are tailored to safeguard each family’s needs, considering both cultural and ethnic values. In addition, Pederec Inc. facilitates community engagement and empowers those impacted by ASD to become independent, supported, and contributing members of their communities.
PEDEREC INC. is an ABA Therapy and Consultancy Services company that works with families to meet families’ needs by providing practical ABA therapy services for children diagnosed with autism and related disorders. Pederec Inc. strives to improve lives, one family at a time. Our services are tailored to safeguard each family’s needs, considering both cultural and ethnic values. In addition, Pederec Inc. facilitates community engagement and empowers those impacted by ASD to become independent, supported, and contributing members of their communities.
(540) 202-1397 View (540) 202-1397
Photo of Luther Archer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CPSC
Luther Archer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CPSC
Online Only
Searching for the right therapist can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with stress, past trauma, relationship challenges, or emotional struggles that seem difficult to resolve on your own. You may be navigating depression, anxiety, life transitions, or patterns that continue to interfere with your well-being and relationships. At Hearts, Minds & Souls: Coaching, Counseling and Therapy Services, effective intervention can help you develop practical strategies, greater insight, and a clearer path forward. I work with adults, couples, families and age-appropriate adolescents who want to increase effective communication
Searching for the right therapist can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with stress, past trauma, relationship challenges, or emotional struggles that seem difficult to resolve on your own. You may be navigating depression, anxiety, life transitions, or patterns that continue to interfere with your well-being and relationships. At Hearts, Minds & Souls: Coaching, Counseling and Therapy Services, effective intervention can help you develop practical strategies, greater insight, and a clearer path forward. I work with adults, couples, families and age-appropriate adolescents who want to increase effective communication
(804) 369-8595 View (804) 369-8595
Photo of Cindy Stanford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Cindy Stanford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
Hello! I'm Cindy Stanford and I'm a holistic practitioner, life coach and licensed therapist. Honoring all spiritual practices and beliefs I utilize the sacred wisdom of the mind, body, spirit and heart to ignite life/spirit resuscitation. I facilitate the process of transformation through spirituality -focused services, psychotherapy, life coaching, consulting and mentoring. I'm also available for speaking engagements and workshops/seminars. I utilize a holistic, spiritual and therapeutic approach aimed at integrating the six aspects of life which aid in the discovery of one's authentic self and highest potential.
Hello! I'm Cindy Stanford and I'm a holistic practitioner, life coach and licensed therapist. Honoring all spiritual practices and beliefs I utilize the sacred wisdom of the mind, body, spirit and heart to ignite life/spirit resuscitation. I facilitate the process of transformation through spirituality -focused services, psychotherapy, life coaching, consulting and mentoring. I'm also available for speaking engagements and workshops/seminars. I utilize a holistic, spiritual and therapeutic approach aimed at integrating the six aspects of life which aid in the discovery of one's authentic self and highest potential.
(757) 798-7762 View (757) 798-7762

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stephanie Oulatta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Stephanie Oulatta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello, I'm Stephanie Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you feeling stressed? Are you struggling with thoughts you cannot control? Are you having difficulty communicating with your child or teenager? Are you in need of hope? I can help! I support clients who experience a variety of mental health and emotional difficulties including depression, anxiety, complex trauma and relationship issues. I believe in the power of connection and understanding. My approach is holistic, empathetic, and culturally sensitive, ensuring clients feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their healing journey.
Hello, I'm Stephanie Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you feeling stressed? Are you struggling with thoughts you cannot control? Are you having difficulty communicating with your child or teenager? Are you in need of hope? I can help! I support clients who experience a variety of mental health and emotional difficulties including depression, anxiety, complex trauma and relationship issues. I believe in the power of connection and understanding. My approach is holistic, empathetic, and culturally sensitive, ensuring clients feel heard, respected, and supported throughout their healing journey.
(571) 582-0906 View (571) 582-0906
Photo of Tiffany H. Sutton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW,
Tiffany H. Sutton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW,
Online Only
Hello! I'm Tiffany Sutton, a licensed clinical social worker covering VA, NC, and DE. My ideal client is navigating life transitions, feeling stuck or overwhelmed by anxiety, sadness, or relationship challenges. They seek a safe, supportive space to explore their emotions, uncover patterns, and develop strategies for lasting change. Their goals include healing from past pain, building resilience, and creating a life filled with purpose and connection. They want to feel empowered, confident, and at peace, ready to take meaningful steps toward growth and fulfillment with compassionate guidance. Are you prepared to take the next step?
Hello! I'm Tiffany Sutton, a licensed clinical social worker covering VA, NC, and DE. My ideal client is navigating life transitions, feeling stuck or overwhelmed by anxiety, sadness, or relationship challenges. They seek a safe, supportive space to explore their emotions, uncover patterns, and develop strategies for lasting change. Their goals include healing from past pain, building resilience, and creating a life filled with purpose and connection. They want to feel empowered, confident, and at peace, ready to take meaningful steps toward growth and fulfillment with compassionate guidance. Are you prepared to take the next step?
(540) 264-4457 View (540) 264-4457
Photo of Twanna Carter, Counselor, CHT, LPC, LCPC, CAMS II, NCC
Twanna Carter
Counselor, CHT, LPC, LCPC, CAMS II, NCC
Online Only
Black women often silently feel overwhelmed by trauma, stress, and the pressure to always be “the strong one
With over 15 years of counseling experience, I specialize in supporting Black women navigating burnout, grief, perfectionism, workplace trauma, stress, and major life transitions. We’ll move at your pace, with consent and choice, while addressing trauma, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion so your body can finally experience relief.
Black women often silently feel overwhelmed by trauma, stress, and the pressure to always be “the strong one
With over 15 years of counseling experience, I specialize in supporting Black women navigating burnout, grief, perfectionism, workplace trauma, stress, and major life transitions. We’ll move at your pace, with consent and choice, while addressing trauma, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion so your body can finally experience relief.
(240) 628-7884 View (240) 628-7884
Photo of Cheryl L Simms, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCMHC, NCC, LSATP
Cheryl L Simms
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCMHC, NCC, LSATP
Online Only
Cheryl Simms, LPC, LAC Licensed in South Carolina & Virginia With 16 years of experience as a counselor, I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges with resilience and hope. I specialize in trauma, substance use,depression, anxiety, family dynamics, and child/adolescent concerns. I am EMDR-trained and have extensive experience supporting military service members and their families.My clients describe me as warm, caring, and empowering. I bring a calm, grounded presence to the therapy room and believe in helping people find clarity, strength, and healing.
Cheryl Simms, LPC, LAC Licensed in South Carolina & Virginia With 16 years of experience as a counselor, I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges with resilience and hope. I specialize in trauma, substance use,depression, anxiety, family dynamics, and child/adolescent concerns. I am EMDR-trained and have extensive experience supporting military service members and their families.My clients describe me as warm, caring, and empowering. I bring a calm, grounded presence to the therapy room and believe in helping people find clarity, strength, and healing.
(803) 770-5577 View (803) 770-5577
Photo of Tiffany L Daniels, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tiffany L Daniels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Fredericksburg, VA 22407
Life is a journey that we all go through, and it presents us with many obstacles to navigate. Sometimes these obstacles can present us with challenges that can lead us to feel depressed, overwhelmed, stressed, withdrawn, or even isolated. When we learn to create balance in our life, we begin to feel a sense of joy and happiness for the person we are meant to be. I would like to partner with you as you explore life’s challenges and concerns and help you in identifying feelings and thought patterns and assist you in developing effective coping and self-care strategies that will strengthen your everyday life.
Life is a journey that we all go through, and it presents us with many obstacles to navigate. Sometimes these obstacles can present us with challenges that can lead us to feel depressed, overwhelmed, stressed, withdrawn, or even isolated. When we learn to create balance in our life, we begin to feel a sense of joy and happiness for the person we are meant to be. I would like to partner with you as you explore life’s challenges and concerns and help you in identifying feelings and thought patterns and assist you in developing effective coping and self-care strategies that will strengthen your everyday life.
(540) 202-1777 View (540) 202-1777
Photo of Ngozi Nwajiaku, Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC-VA, LPC-DC, CSAC-S
Ngozi Nwajiaku
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC-VA, LPC-DC, CSAC-S
Online Only
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. Reaching out can feel like a big step, and my goal is to make that first step feel safe, supportive, and grounded in understanding. I see therapy as a partnership: you bring your experiences and strengths, and I offer guidance, structure, and support. Together, we’ll identify patterns, build effective coping skills, and create meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you.
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. Reaching out can feel like a big step, and my goal is to make that first step feel safe, supportive, and grounded in understanding. I see therapy as a partnership: you bring your experiences and strengths, and I offer guidance, structure, and support. Together, we’ll identify patterns, build effective coping skills, and create meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you.
(804) 575-7011 View (804) 575-7011
Photo of Teresa Bell, Resident in Counseling, MA
Teresa Bell
Resident in Counseling, MA
1 Endorsed
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Grounded in warmth and authenticity, I aim to create a supportive space where clients can feel seen, rediscover their strengths, and move toward meaningful change. I work with individuals who are coping with trauma, grief, anxiety, stress, and life transitions. I blend Person-Centered and Solution-Focused therapy with mindfulness, CBT, dialectical thinking, and trauma-informed care to help clients find balance and confidence in themselves. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, offering a space where you can feel seen, understood, and supported as you navigate life’s challenges.
Grounded in warmth and authenticity, I aim to create a supportive space where clients can feel seen, rediscover their strengths, and move toward meaningful change. I work with individuals who are coping with trauma, grief, anxiety, stress, and life transitions. I blend Person-Centered and Solution-Focused therapy with mindfulness, CBT, dialectical thinking, and trauma-informed care to help clients find balance and confidence in themselves. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, offering a space where you can feel seen, understood, and supported as you navigate life’s challenges.
(540) 572-7140 View (540) 572-7140
Photo of Dr. Vester Appiah - Tree Of Counseling and Consulting Services,LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, LSATP
Tree Of Counseling and Consulting Services,LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, LSATP
Online Only
Taking the step to begin therapy takes courage. At Tree of Life Counseling, we offer a supportive, trauma-informed space for adolescents and adults seeking relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Our clinicians work with individuals who may appear high-functioning yet feel emotionally overwhelmed or disconnected. Using evidence-based approaches and faith-informed care when desired, we help clients gain clarity, build resilience, and develop healthier ways of coping. Our goal is to support meaningful, lasting change by helping you move forward with greater peace, confidence, and emotional balance.
Taking the step to begin therapy takes courage. At Tree of Life Counseling, we offer a supportive, trauma-informed space for adolescents and adults seeking relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Our clinicians work with individuals who may appear high-functioning yet feel emotionally overwhelmed or disconnected. Using evidence-based approaches and faith-informed care when desired, we help clients gain clarity, build resilience, and develop healthier ways of coping. Our goal is to support meaningful, lasting change by helping you move forward with greater peace, confidence, and emotional balance.
(540) 274-9948 View (540) 274-9948
Photo of Tabitha Woodson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Tabitha Woodson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Orange, VA 22960
I am passionate about working with clients who are sick and tired of being stuck! No more going through the motions; it is time to do the hard work to discover what you have inside of you. I do believe that some of the suffering experienced in life oftentimes results from faulty thinking which eventually leads to unwanted emotions and behaviors. Some experiences can wound the soul leaving us feeling powerless and confused. As a fellow veteran, I am uniquely equipped to work with veterans, understanding firsthand the challenges and experiences of the military lifestyle. I served 16 years in the United States Navy!
I am passionate about working with clients who are sick and tired of being stuck! No more going through the motions; it is time to do the hard work to discover what you have inside of you. I do believe that some of the suffering experienced in life oftentimes results from faulty thinking which eventually leads to unwanted emotions and behaviors. Some experiences can wound the soul leaving us feeling powerless and confused. As a fellow veteran, I am uniquely equipped to work with veterans, understanding firsthand the challenges and experiences of the military lifestyle. I served 16 years in the United States Navy!
(540) 503-4065 View (540) 503-4065
Photo of Eric M. Bell, Resident in Counseling, RIC, MA, MS
Eric M. Bell
Resident in Counseling, RIC, MA, MS
Serves Area
Welcome! Thanks for considering Compass Counseling Services of NOVA. I am a Resident in Counseling in Virginia. My mission is to serve adults, couples/families, and youths seeking help with anxiety, depression, traumas, behavioral and relationship management. I also provide life skills training, addiction recovery support and co-dependency/enabling behavioral modification. All clients are entitled to strong, caring and client-based treatment. Clients usually desire to make positive changes that best match their personal values and wellbeing. The effort that you put into your therapeutic journey is what you will gain from it.
Welcome! Thanks for considering Compass Counseling Services of NOVA. I am a Resident in Counseling in Virginia. My mission is to serve adults, couples/families, and youths seeking help with anxiety, depression, traumas, behavioral and relationship management. I also provide life skills training, addiction recovery support and co-dependency/enabling behavioral modification. All clients are entitled to strong, caring and client-based treatment. Clients usually desire to make positive changes that best match their personal values and wellbeing. The effort that you put into your therapeutic journey is what you will gain from it.
(540) 405-6030 View (540) 405-6030
Photo of Elayne Smithcplsva - Couples Therapy at The Center for Connection, Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT, LPC, LCSW
Couples Therapy at The Center for Connection
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT, LPC, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
When your love relationship feels strained, the ache of disconnection can be hard to bear. One of you wants to talk and resolve, while the other needs space to breathe. One reaches out for reassurance, the other retreats to keep the peace. Over time, these moments become a familiar and painful dance of pursuit and withdrawal that leaves you both feeling alone, misunderstood, and unseen. We specialize in adult love relationships and the science of secure attachment. Through Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), we help you slow down, understand your cycle, and name what lies beneath - a longing to feel close, valued, and heard.
When your love relationship feels strained, the ache of disconnection can be hard to bear. One of you wants to talk and resolve, while the other needs space to breathe. One reaches out for reassurance, the other retreats to keep the peace. Over time, these moments become a familiar and painful dance of pursuit and withdrawal that leaves you both feeling alone, misunderstood, and unseen. We specialize in adult love relationships and the science of secure attachment. Through Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), we help you slow down, understand your cycle, and name what lies beneath - a longing to feel close, valued, and heard.
(571) 339-0247 View (571) 339-0247

See more therapy options for Culpeper

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.