Black and African American Therapists in Earlysville, VA

Photo of Mecca Antonia Burns, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RDT, BCT
Mecca Antonia Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RDT, BCT
Earlysville, VA 22936
What dreams will you make come true? What barriers exist, inside you or outside of you? For 30 years I've used drama therapy, music and art for personal healing and social change in PERSON or ONLINE. Through dialogue, gesture, image, rhythm, collage, diagrams, or enactments, we'll find ways to foster awareness, acceptance and action, to improve the WORLD you live in. I've worked with people in east Africa, Spain, Romania and Virginia. I'll help you grow the SOUL force needed to love even the shyest, shadowy-est elements of your personality.
What dreams will you make come true? What barriers exist, inside you or outside of you? For 30 years I've used drama therapy, music and art for personal healing and social change in PERSON or ONLINE. Through dialogue, gesture, image, rhythm, collage, diagrams, or enactments, we'll find ways to foster awareness, acceptance and action, to improve the WORLD you live in. I've worked with people in east Africa, Spain, Romania and Virginia. I'll help you grow the SOUL force needed to love even the shyest, shadowy-est elements of your personality.
(434) 623-5553 View (434) 623-5553
Photo of Robert C Rannigan, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Robert C Rannigan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Online Only
Do you live a healthy life? Answering this question accurately can lead to freedom from anxiety and fear and a return to peace. By practicing awareness of 1) thoughts 2) feelings 3) behaviors, anyone may learn to make conscious choices in the present moment. My therapeutic focus is helping clients understand and choose thoughts, feelings and actions during sessions. Homework is encouraged to practice new, developing behaviors.
Do you live a healthy life? Answering this question accurately can lead to freedom from anxiety and fear and a return to peace. By practicing awareness of 1) thoughts 2) feelings 3) behaviors, anyone may learn to make conscious choices in the present moment. My therapeutic focus is helping clients understand and choose thoughts, feelings and actions during sessions. Homework is encouraged to practice new, developing behaviors.
(434) 607-4781 View (434) 607-4781
Photo of William John Manning, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCSW
William John Manning
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCSW
Earlysville, VA 22936
Folks that come to me for support struggle to manage the thoughts and feelings that lead to relapse and mental health crises. My experience tells me that these folks feel disconnected from themselves and their community. Establishing connectivity to their friends, family, and their broader social setting is crucial for wellness and for healing. Everyone has the goal of contentment and peace of mind, and substance abuse more than most challenges undermines the fulfillment of these basic needs. To heal and prosper, substance abusers and trauma survivors need to practice self care in the bio psychosocial-spiritual way of life.
Folks that come to me for support struggle to manage the thoughts and feelings that lead to relapse and mental health crises. My experience tells me that these folks feel disconnected from themselves and their community. Establishing connectivity to their friends, family, and their broader social setting is crucial for wellness and for healing. Everyone has the goal of contentment and peace of mind, and substance abuse more than most challenges undermines the fulfillment of these basic needs. To heal and prosper, substance abusers and trauma survivors need to practice self care in the bio psychosocial-spiritual way of life.
(434) 204-4131 View (434) 204-4131

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Felicia Bowman Chandler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-S, CCTP
Felicia Bowman Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-S, CCTP
Online Only
With over 10 years of experience supporting Black women and women of color, I draw from CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT, Person-Centered, Solution-Focused, and Somatic Experiencing.
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself, stuck, or emotionally exhausted? Have you experienced emotional or relational trauma, anxiety, depression, or ongoing self-criticism? You don’t have to navigate this alone. I offer a safe, compassionate, trauma-informed space where you can slow down, heal, and simply be. Together, we will process trauma, manage anxiety and depression, and move from self-criticism toward self-compassion and self-trust. I specialize in supporting women of color who are navigating life transitions, emotional exhaustion, chronic stress, and the impact of workplace trauma.
With over 10 years of experience supporting Black women and women of color, I draw from CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT, Person-Centered, Solution-Focused, and Somatic Experiencing.
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself, stuck, or emotionally exhausted? Have you experienced emotional or relational trauma, anxiety, depression, or ongoing self-criticism? You don’t have to navigate this alone. I offer a safe, compassionate, trauma-informed space where you can slow down, heal, and simply be. Together, we will process trauma, manage anxiety and depression, and move from self-criticism toward self-compassion and self-trust. I specialize in supporting women of color who are navigating life transitions, emotional exhaustion, chronic stress, and the impact of workplace trauma.
(804) 390-8576 View (804) 390-8576
Photo of Jasmine Samuel, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, CSAC
Jasmine Samuel
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, CSAC
Online Only
Jasmine has been working with people for as long as she can remember. She got her start as a teenager, assisting her aunt who owned a behavior center, supporting individuals with autism and special needs. That early experience sparked something in her. Over the years, she's built more than a decade of experience through providing play therapy to young children to supporting those advancing in age to facilitating engagement of families. From working in group homes to residential treatment centers, Jasmine has been able to see how healing looks at every stage of life. This range has given her the ability to meet people where they are.
Jasmine has been working with people for as long as she can remember. She got her start as a teenager, assisting her aunt who owned a behavior center, supporting individuals with autism and special needs. That early experience sparked something in her. Over the years, she's built more than a decade of experience through providing play therapy to young children to supporting those advancing in age to facilitating engagement of families. From working in group homes to residential treatment centers, Jasmine has been able to see how healing looks at every stage of life. This range has given her the ability to meet people where they are.
(434) 337-5143 View (434) 337-5143
Photo of Althea Dent, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Althea Dent
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I see counseling as a collaborative journey. I desire to create an atmosphere that is comfortable and accepting. My primary goal is to come alongside the client and assist in managing issues that can cause one to feel stuck or overwhelmed. Whether it’s navigating anxiety, a strained relationship, stress, or a major life transition, our work can provide clarity, relief, and real tools to help you move forward.
I see counseling as a collaborative journey. I desire to create an atmosphere that is comfortable and accepting. My primary goal is to come alongside the client and assist in managing issues that can cause one to feel stuck or overwhelmed. Whether it’s navigating anxiety, a strained relationship, stress, or a major life transition, our work can provide clarity, relief, and real tools to help you move forward.
(540) 361-6591 View (540) 361-6591
Photo of Imani White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Imani White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
If you’re used to being the one who holds it together, therapy can feel like the only place you’re allowed to stop. Many of my clients are high-functioning on the outside but internally overwhelmed, stuck in anxious thought loops, emotionally exhausted, or carrying old family wounds that still show up in their relationships and self-talk. You may know why you feel the way you do, but knowing hasn’t been enough to create real change. I work with adults who want more than insight; they want relief. My approach is direct, supportive, and grounded in evidence-based care.
If you’re used to being the one who holds it together, therapy can feel like the only place you’re allowed to stop. Many of my clients are high-functioning on the outside but internally overwhelmed, stuck in anxious thought loops, emotionally exhausted, or carrying old family wounds that still show up in their relationships and self-talk. You may know why you feel the way you do, but knowing hasn’t been enough to create real change. I work with adults who want more than insight; they want relief. My approach is direct, supportive, and grounded in evidence-based care.
(571) 427-0701 View (571) 427-0701
Photo of Tabitha Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Tabitha Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
At Roots to Petals Wellness, I work with individuals who are healing from challenges related to trauma, anxiety, depression, sexual disorders, and LGBTQ-related concerns. I also focus on the first responder population, corrections personnel, and returning citizens who experience unique stresses. Additionally, I concentrate on people of color and minority populations who may feel unseen in mainstream mental health services.
At Roots to Petals Wellness, I work with individuals who are healing from challenges related to trauma, anxiety, depression, sexual disorders, and LGBTQ-related concerns. I also focus on the first responder population, corrections personnel, and returning citizens who experience unique stresses. Additionally, I concentrate on people of color and minority populations who may feel unseen in mainstream mental health services.
(804) 445-8138 View (804) 445-8138
Photo of Chukwuma Ekeh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chukwuma Ekeh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I specialize in helping people that struggle with anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships and life transitions. I want to help my clients be the best version of themselves on a consistent basis. I want to help people develop the skills and identify the resources that they need to help themselves be the person that they want to be. I want to help people make real and lasting changes in their lives to help them accomplish the goals that they have for themselves. I want my clients to leave my services knowing: they are worthy, they are capable, they are more than enough, they are worthy of love!
I specialize in helping people that struggle with anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships and life transitions. I want to help my clients be the best version of themselves on a consistent basis. I want to help people develop the skills and identify the resources that they need to help themselves be the person that they want to be. I want to help people make real and lasting changes in their lives to help them accomplish the goals that they have for themselves. I want my clients to leave my services knowing: they are worthy, they are capable, they are more than enough, they are worthy of love!
(346) 586-1245 View (346) 586-1245
Photo of Jade Westbrook, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jade Westbrook
Licensed Professional Counselor
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22911
I am passionate about providing a welcoming and safe environment to empower clients to explore trauma and life experiences. If you are experiencing feelings of depression and anxiety, struggling with past trauma, feeling challenged by romantic relationships or friendships, having a hard time processing race-related stress or concerns being a first-generation college student or simply feel that you have been unable to prioritize self-care, develop coping skills, or set boundaries consider participating in individual counseling to help you refocus your life.
I am passionate about providing a welcoming and safe environment to empower clients to explore trauma and life experiences. If you are experiencing feelings of depression and anxiety, struggling with past trauma, feeling challenged by romantic relationships or friendships, having a hard time processing race-related stress or concerns being a first-generation college student or simply feel that you have been unable to prioritize self-care, develop coping skills, or set boundaries consider participating in individual counseling to help you refocus your life.
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Photo of Brendaly Nieves Santiago, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Brendaly Nieves Santiago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Waitlist for new clients
You deserve healing and meaningful support. As a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in working with addiction, domestic violence, and generational trauma. This work can be challenging and emotionally demanding, but healing is possible when we approach it together. In a safe, supportive space, you will be heard, supported, and empowered to participate in a collaborative process focused on growth and well-being.
You deserve healing and meaningful support. As a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in working with addiction, domestic violence, and generational trauma. This work can be challenging and emotionally demanding, but healing is possible when we approach it together. In a safe, supportive space, you will be heard, supported, and empowered to participate in a collaborative process focused on growth and well-being.
(540) 501-7394 View (540) 501-7394
Photo of Jahnea Smalls, Resident in Counseling, M, A
Jahnea Smalls
Resident in Counseling, M, A
Serves Area
Hola! My name is Jahnea Smalls (insert Sandlot quote). I am a counselor by profession, a mom to a sweet 6-year-old boy, and a plant whisperer. I create judgment‑free spaces where people feel seen—then recharge with horror movies in my free time.
Hola! My name is Jahnea Smalls (insert Sandlot quote). I am a counselor by profession, a mom to a sweet 6-year-old boy, and a plant whisperer. I create judgment‑free spaces where people feel seen—then recharge with horror movies in my free time.
(757) 891-5790 View (757) 891-5790
Photo of Tempest Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Tempest Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Greetings! I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 10 years of experience in social work and counseling. I believe counseling is a partnership and journey, you being in the driver’s seat and me being on the passenger side offering a listening ear, warm presence, and gentle guidance. My desire is to empower individuals to maximize their season of life while equipping them with the appropriate tools to do so.
Greetings! I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 10 years of experience in social work and counseling. I believe counseling is a partnership and journey, you being in the driver’s seat and me being on the passenger side offering a listening ear, warm presence, and gentle guidance. My desire is to empower individuals to maximize their season of life while equipping them with the appropriate tools to do so.
(540) 889-3613 View (540) 889-3613
Photo of Dr. Jasmen D Rice - JDR Neuropsychological Testing Services , Psychologist, PsyD
JDR Neuropsychological Testing Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
My name is Jasmen D. Rice, PsyD and I am a Clinical Neuropsychologist. I specialize in the evaluation of cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative conditions that more commonly affect older adults. These conditions include, but are not limited to, dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease, vascular disease, and Lewy bodies. Sometimes, changes in memory and thinking can occur for other reasons, such as depression or anxiety, the effects of medication, chronic pain, or other medical conditions, such as multiple sclerosis or normal pressure hydrocephalus.
My name is Jasmen D. Rice, PsyD and I am a Clinical Neuropsychologist. I specialize in the evaluation of cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative conditions that more commonly affect older adults. These conditions include, but are not limited to, dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease, vascular disease, and Lewy bodies. Sometimes, changes in memory and thinking can occur for other reasons, such as depression or anxiety, the effects of medication, chronic pain, or other medical conditions, such as multiple sclerosis or normal pressure hydrocephalus.
(860) 775-6159 View (860) 775-6159
Photo of Jeff Rocker - Rocker Health LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, PH.D, NCC, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Rocker Health LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PH.D, NCC, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Serves Area
At Rocker Health, we believe that mental wellness is a journey that deserves compassion, understanding, and personalized support. Our commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health is at the forefront of everything we do. We understand that each individual's experience with mental health is unique, and we strive to create a welcoming environment where individuals feel safe and empowered to share their stories. Our mission is to provide a rock-solid foundation for our clients, guiding them toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.
At Rocker Health, we believe that mental wellness is a journey that deserves compassion, understanding, and personalized support. Our commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health is at the forefront of everything we do. We understand that each individual's experience with mental health is unique, and we strive to create a welcoming environment where individuals feel safe and empowered to share their stories. Our mission is to provide a rock-solid foundation for our clients, guiding them toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.
(703) 783-9510 View (703) 783-9510
Photo of Dr. Robin D. Usher, Psychologist, LCP, LPC
Dr. Robin D. Usher
Psychologist, LCP, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a researcher and clinician, I focus on the intersection of identity, trauma, and resilience. My work internationally investigating trauma, health systems, and suicide risk factors have shaped my understanding of community and recovery. In my clinical practice, I specialize in treating complex conditions like borderline personality disorder, chronic post traumatic stress reactions, obsessions, compulsion, relationship problems, and existential threats. My practice centers helping individuals, couples, and families in reclaiming their sense of self and community.
As a researcher and clinician, I focus on the intersection of identity, trauma, and resilience. My work internationally investigating trauma, health systems, and suicide risk factors have shaped my understanding of community and recovery. In my clinical practice, I specialize in treating complex conditions like borderline personality disorder, chronic post traumatic stress reactions, obsessions, compulsion, relationship problems, and existential threats. My practice centers helping individuals, couples, and families in reclaiming their sense of self and community.
(804) 554-5978 View (804) 554-5978
Photo of Alexandria Da Ponte-Cheatham, Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, MDiv
Alexandria Da Ponte-Cheatham
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, MDiv
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you looking for a therapist you can talk to openly about intimacy, sex, or desire without fear of judgment or shame? Are you struggling with desire discrepancy, pain with sex, pelvic floor concerns, purity culture, or navigating your first sexual experiences? Or trying to understand how your cultural, racial, or religious background has shaped your relationship with your body, identity, and relationships? You don’t have to figure this out alone. I provide individual and couples trauma-informed therapy for adults, with a focus on sexual wellness, intimacy concerns, and identity development.
Are you looking for a therapist you can talk to openly about intimacy, sex, or desire without fear of judgment or shame? Are you struggling with desire discrepancy, pain with sex, pelvic floor concerns, purity culture, or navigating your first sexual experiences? Or trying to understand how your cultural, racial, or religious background has shaped your relationship with your body, identity, and relationships? You don’t have to figure this out alone. I provide individual and couples trauma-informed therapy for adults, with a focus on sexual wellness, intimacy concerns, and identity development.
(804) 589-5353 View (804) 589-5353
Photo of Jodi Herndon, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jodi Herndon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Charlottesville, VA 22903
Are you looking for someone who will hear you out and meet you wherever you are in life? Do you need a therapist who remembers that you are the expert on you? Then try Jodi Herndon. Jodi Herndon has over a decade of experience providing individualized care for adults and adolescents with depression and anxiety. She has spent the last decade specializing in individuals with substance use disorders and has a dual license in this specialty. Jodi treats individuals impacted by trauma using trauma-specific techniques, like EMDR. She has continued to educate herself in new treatment modalities and is pursuing her Ph.D. in psychology.
Are you looking for someone who will hear you out and meet you wherever you are in life? Do you need a therapist who remembers that you are the expert on you? Then try Jodi Herndon. Jodi Herndon has over a decade of experience providing individualized care for adults and adolescents with depression and anxiety. She has spent the last decade specializing in individuals with substance use disorders and has a dual license in this specialty. Jodi treats individuals impacted by trauma using trauma-specific techniques, like EMDR. She has continued to educate herself in new treatment modalities and is pursuing her Ph.D. in psychology.
(434) 423-6648 View (434) 423-6648
Photo of Nicholas I Wright - Wright Group Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP
Wright Group Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP
Online Only
Welcome! I am accepting new clients. Whether you’re considering therapy for the first time or returning, finding a provider that you can connect with and develop trust with is important. I work with adolescents, adults and couples to address a range of concerns (e.g. anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, relationships, and addictions). I help clients develop greater self-understanding and better relate in relationships.
Welcome! I am accepting new clients. Whether you’re considering therapy for the first time or returning, finding a provider that you can connect with and develop trust with is important. I work with adolescents, adults and couples to address a range of concerns (e.g. anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, relationships, and addictions). I help clients develop greater self-understanding and better relate in relationships.
(434) 201-7641 View (434) 201-7641
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
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.