Black and African American Therapists in Leesburg, VA

Photo of Barbara Adika, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Barbara Adika
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Leesburg, VA 20175
I use the foundations of CBT, DBT, ACT, solution focused, motivational interviewing to support clients from Black/ African-American, Asian, Latinx, Middle Eastern and other backgrounds
I have a particular interest in working with individuals and couples struggling with recurring patterns of infidelity, emotional disengagement, and chronic dissatisfaction in relationships. My work is centered on helping individuals and couples understand and change relational patterns that seem to repeat across generations. Many of the people I work with find themselves recreating aspects of their parents' relationships—or the broader dynamics of their family of origin—in their own intimate partnerships, often despite a conscious desire to do something different.
I use the foundations of CBT, DBT, ACT, solution focused, motivational interviewing to support clients from Black/ African-American, Asian, Latinx, Middle Eastern and other backgrounds
I have a particular interest in working with individuals and couples struggling with recurring patterns of infidelity, emotional disengagement, and chronic dissatisfaction in relationships. My work is centered on helping individuals and couples understand and change relational patterns that seem to repeat across generations. Many of the people I work with find themselves recreating aspects of their parents' relationships—or the broader dynamics of their family of origin—in their own intimate partnerships, often despite a conscious desire to do something different.
(540) 212-4380 View (540) 212-4380
Photo of Imani Hagans, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Imani Hagans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
You may look like you’re holding it all together—but inside, something feels off. Maybe you’re exhausted from giving too much in relationships that leave you drained. Maybe your self-worth has taken a hit, and you’re not sure how to rebuild it. Or maybe you just feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of who you are anymore. I’m Imani Hagans, a licensed professional counselor in Virginia with over 17 years of experience supporting adolescents, adults, and couples. I specialize in helping people heal from toxic relationship patterns, rebuild self-esteem, and create healthier, more fulfilling connections—with others and with themselves.
You may look like you’re holding it all together—but inside, something feels off. Maybe you’re exhausted from giving too much in relationships that leave you drained. Maybe your self-worth has taken a hit, and you’re not sure how to rebuild it. Or maybe you just feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of who you are anymore. I’m Imani Hagans, a licensed professional counselor in Virginia with over 17 years of experience supporting adolescents, adults, and couples. I specialize in helping people heal from toxic relationship patterns, rebuild self-esteem, and create healthier, more fulfilling connections—with others and with themselves.
(540) 924-3241 View (540) 924-3241
Photo of Dr. Aynen M Vallis, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Aynen M Vallis
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in trauma, PTSD (including combat-related PTSD), anxiety, high-functioning stress, toxic workplaces, relationship and communication challenges. With over 20 years of clinical experience and extensive work in military and VA healthcare systems, I help veterans and high performing professionals overcome anger, panic and trauma to improve emotional health, relationships and communication. Treatment includes ACT, CBT, CPT, EMDR, Mindfulness, Somatic approaches and Psychedelic Integration therapy. I'm ready whenever you are. Let's talk.
I specialize in trauma, PTSD (including combat-related PTSD), anxiety, high-functioning stress, toxic workplaces, relationship and communication challenges. With over 20 years of clinical experience and extensive work in military and VA healthcare systems, I help veterans and high performing professionals overcome anger, panic and trauma to improve emotional health, relationships and communication. Treatment includes ACT, CBT, CPT, EMDR, Mindfulness, Somatic approaches and Psychedelic Integration therapy. I'm ready whenever you are. Let's talk.
(571) 506-0298 View (571) 506-0298
Photo of Gail Durant, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMSW
Gail Durant
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMSW
Online Only
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by expectations—constantly managing responsibilities while quietly questioning your own needs and identity? You may look like you have it all together on the outside, but inside, you’re feeling exhausted, uncertain, or stuck in patterns that are hard to break. I'm Gail Durant, a therapist who supports individuals navigating anxiety, identity questions, emotional burnout, and challenges in relationships and self-worth. In a warm, collaborative space, we’ll work together to explore what’s been weighing you down and help you move toward greater clarity, confidence, and emotional resilience.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by expectations—constantly managing responsibilities while quietly questioning your own needs and identity? You may look like you have it all together on the outside, but inside, you’re feeling exhausted, uncertain, or stuck in patterns that are hard to break. I'm Gail Durant, a therapist who supports individuals navigating anxiety, identity questions, emotional burnout, and challenges in relationships and self-worth. In a warm, collaborative space, we’ll work together to explore what’s been weighing you down and help you move toward greater clarity, confidence, and emotional resilience.
(571) 351-1093 View (571) 351-1093
Photo of Dr. Elle Whitehead, Resident in Counseling, EdD
Dr. Elle Whitehead
Resident in Counseling, EdD
Leesburg, VA 20176
If you’re a teen, young adult, or new mom feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally drained—you’re not alone. You deserve a space where you can be real, supported, and understood— a safe and judgement free zone. Whether you’re facing school stress, life transitions, or postpartum changes, I’m here to help you make sense of your emotions, rebuild confidence, and feel like yourself again—with support that’s practical, compassionate, and culturally rooted.
If you’re a teen, young adult, or new mom feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally drained—you’re not alone. You deserve a space where you can be real, supported, and understood— a safe and judgement free zone. Whether you’re facing school stress, life transitions, or postpartum changes, I’m here to help you make sense of your emotions, rebuild confidence, and feel like yourself again—with support that’s practical, compassionate, and culturally rooted.
(703) 783-9833 View (703) 783-9833
Photo of Carrie Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Carrie Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
I work with young adults, especially Black women and other women of color, who are tired of carrying everything on their own and are looking for a space where they can simply be themselves.
My approach is collaborative because I believe you're the expert on your own life. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, body image, or self-esteem, therapy can become a place where you feel truly seen, heard, and accepted.
I work with young adults, especially Black women and other women of color, who are tired of carrying everything on their own and are looking for a space where they can simply be themselves.
My approach is collaborative because I believe you're the expert on your own life. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, body image, or self-esteem, therapy can become a place where you feel truly seen, heard, and accepted.
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Photo of Alexis Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alexis Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Alexis holds a Bachelor’s degree from Hampton University and a Masters in Social Work from Columbia University. She specializes in providing personalized mental health services in VA and NC, with a focus on young adults, women's issues, and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. As a birthworker/Doula herself, Alexis also offers support for other birthworkers, providing unique insights and assistance. She offers compassionate therapy for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem, tailoring her approach to meet their unique needs and experiences.
Alexis holds a Bachelor’s degree from Hampton University and a Masters in Social Work from Columbia University. She specializes in providing personalized mental health services in VA and NC, with a focus on young adults, women's issues, and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. As a birthworker/Doula herself, Alexis also offers support for other birthworkers, providing unique insights and assistance. She offers compassionate therapy for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, or low self-esteem, tailoring her approach to meet their unique needs and experiences.
(804) 251-2791 View (804) 251-2791
Photo of Chantel Richardson, MSW
Chantel Richardson
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
As an alternative, African American, LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist and a former student-athlete for 13 years, I offer a nonjudgmental space where individuality is celebrated and authenticity is encouraged.
I’m Chantel Richardson, a compassionate Resident in Social Work with eight years of experience supporting individuals across diverse backgrounds. I am committed to creating a safe, affirming space where you feel seen, heard, and validated. My approach blends evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and ACT with a deep respect for who you are at your core. I believe growth comes through challenges, and I’m here to walk alongside you toward healing, resilience, and self-discovery.
As an alternative, African American, LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist and a former student-athlete for 13 years, I offer a nonjudgmental space where individuality is celebrated and authenticity is encouraged.
I’m Chantel Richardson, a compassionate Resident in Social Work with eight years of experience supporting individuals across diverse backgrounds. I am committed to creating a safe, affirming space where you feel seen, heard, and validated. My approach blends evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and ACT with a deep respect for who you are at your core. I believe growth comes through challenges, and I’m here to walk alongside you toward healing, resilience, and self-discovery.
(571) 626-7431 View (571) 626-7431
Photo of Traci Ballou-Broadnax, Psychologist, PsyD
Traci Ballou-Broadnax
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
Far too often, life does not go as we hope or plan. It is at those times that we can truly benefit from supportive others showing us that we are not alone, and the powerful experience of someone validating, while also empowering us to overcome, our challenges. I believe that therapy is a space that can offer this support, and I value the chance to help individuals navigate life's transitions and obstacles. Through my training and work experiences, I have learned to empathize, and work effectively, with college students and individuals across the lifespan, from diverse backgrounds, and with a wide-range of concerns.
Far too often, life does not go as we hope or plan. It is at those times that we can truly benefit from supportive others showing us that we are not alone, and the powerful experience of someone validating, while also empowering us to overcome, our challenges. I believe that therapy is a space that can offer this support, and I value the chance to help individuals navigate life's transitions and obstacles. Through my training and work experiences, I have learned to empathize, and work effectively, with college students and individuals across the lifespan, from diverse backgrounds, and with a wide-range of concerns.
(864) 763-6365 View (864) 763-6365
Photo of Keysha Miller, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, QMPH, LCSW-R
Keysha Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, QMPH, LCSW-R
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi! My name is Keysha Miller, reaching out for therapy takes courage, and you don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone. I work with individuals who are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and everyday life stressors. My goal is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Together, we will work toward helping you move closer to your hopes and goals and becoming the best version of yourself.
Hi! My name is Keysha Miller, reaching out for therapy takes courage, and you don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone. I work with individuals who are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and everyday life stressors. My goal is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. Together, we will work toward helping you move closer to your hopes and goals and becoming the best version of yourself.
(571) 339-5521 View (571) 339-5521
Photo of Brenda Broadnax, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-DBT, CSOTP
Brenda Broadnax
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-DBT, CSOTP
Online Only
I have always had the conscious goal of supporting others with being able to overcome their hardships and internal challenges that prevents them from being successful. I am a firm believer that in life we have all experienced some type of challenge that will impact our thoughts and emotions. For some people the challenge is more difficult than others and they will experience greater hardship and internal challenges that will send them on a spiral to the unknown. Being a therapist has always been a desire of mine to support others with understanding their thoughts, feelings, beliefs and behaviors associated with how they feel.
I have always had the conscious goal of supporting others with being able to overcome their hardships and internal challenges that prevents them from being successful. I am a firm believer that in life we have all experienced some type of challenge that will impact our thoughts and emotions. For some people the challenge is more difficult than others and they will experience greater hardship and internal challenges that will send them on a spiral to the unknown. Being a therapist has always been a desire of mine to support others with understanding their thoughts, feelings, beliefs and behaviors associated with how they feel.
(469) 373-9689 View (469) 373-9689
Photo of Alyssa Moss, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , CATP
Alyssa Moss
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , CATP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can feel heavy when anxiety, depression, ADHD, or trauma get in the way of daily living. You may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to manage emotions like anger or stress. Whether it’s supporting your child through challenges, navigating your own mental health, or simply wanting to feel more in control, therapy can help. Here, you’ll find a supportive, non-judgmental space where your unique needs are heard, respected, and addressed—so you can take steps toward healing and living with greater balance.
Life can feel heavy when anxiety, depression, ADHD, or trauma get in the way of daily living. You may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to manage emotions like anger or stress. Whether it’s supporting your child through challenges, navigating your own mental health, or simply wanting to feel more in control, therapy can help. Here, you’ll find a supportive, non-judgmental space where your unique needs are heard, respected, and addressed—so you can take steps toward healing and living with greater balance.
(757) 666-0640 View (757) 666-0640
Photo of Shari Pope-Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Shari Pope-Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can be full of challenges that may deprive you of your serenity. Are you in need of relief from emotions or relationships that are intense or emotionally painful? Maybe you're constantly in disagreement with your partner, and can't figure out why. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, difficult memories, disordered eating, or dealing with the impact of a challenging past? Are you in recovery and finding it hard to navigate the challenges of early sobriety, like guilt and shame, or the pressured fear of letting others down? Whatever your stressors, you too can experience peace and live a productive life.
Life can be full of challenges that may deprive you of your serenity. Are you in need of relief from emotions or relationships that are intense or emotionally painful? Maybe you're constantly in disagreement with your partner, and can't figure out why. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, difficult memories, disordered eating, or dealing with the impact of a challenging past? Are you in recovery and finding it hard to navigate the challenges of early sobriety, like guilt and shame, or the pressured fear of letting others down? Whatever your stressors, you too can experience peace and live a productive life.
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Photo of Martia Hayes, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Martia Hayes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Leesburg, VA 20176
My name is Martia Hayes and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Virginia with over 15 years of experience providing care for children, adolescents, and adults. My main area of focus is on behavioral challenges, anxiety, mood disorders, and stress. I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches such as Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy that help me tailor treatment to my clients' unique challenges and needs.
My name is Martia Hayes and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Virginia with over 15 years of experience providing care for children, adolescents, and adults. My main area of focus is on behavioral challenges, anxiety, mood disorders, and stress. I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches such as Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy that help me tailor treatment to my clients' unique challenges and needs.
(804) 575-7935 View (804) 575-7935
Photo of Omega Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Omega Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life is rarely straight forward and relationships can get complicated and messy. Life has its moments of turbulence and peace; times of stability and uncertainty; joy and pain. That's the paradox of life. Maybe your teenager is navigating a tough transition, or the pressures of parenthood has you feeling exhausted. Perhaps you're a young adult trying to manage that stuck feeling. If so, you could be my ideal client. Together, we can make sense of what's causing you distress and find your pathway to stability, joy, and peace. My promise to you: we'll work on what matters most to you and your family.
Life is rarely straight forward and relationships can get complicated and messy. Life has its moments of turbulence and peace; times of stability and uncertainty; joy and pain. That's the paradox of life. Maybe your teenager is navigating a tough transition, or the pressures of parenthood has you feeling exhausted. Perhaps you're a young adult trying to manage that stuck feeling. If so, you could be my ideal client. Together, we can make sense of what's causing you distress and find your pathway to stability, joy, and peace. My promise to you: we'll work on what matters most to you and your family.
(540) 501-7012 View (540) 501-7012
Photo of Jazmyn Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Jazmyn Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when navigating anxiety, depression, loneliness, or major life transitions. You don’t have to face it alone. I offer a safe, compassionate space where you are seen, heard, and valued. Using a personalized, strengths-based approach, we’ll work together to understand your challenges, build resilience, and move toward balance and meaning. I support adults facing workplace stress, mood disorders, and life changes. When you’re ready, I’m here to help you take the next step toward healing and growth.
Life can feel overwhelming at times, especially when navigating anxiety, depression, loneliness, or major life transitions. You don’t have to face it alone. I offer a safe, compassionate space where you are seen, heard, and valued. Using a personalized, strengths-based approach, we’ll work together to understand your challenges, build resilience, and move toward balance and meaning. I support adults facing workplace stress, mood disorders, and life changes. When you’re ready, I’m here to help you take the next step toward healing and growth.
(703) 493-0407 View (703) 493-0407
Photo of Elizabeth A. Hall, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LMFT-R, CHT
Elizabeth A. Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LMFT-R, CHT
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20176
Welcome to counseling! My practice is created with you in mind. Yes, I offer relationship counseling for couples and families, but what I've found is that real healing begins with your relationship with yourself. So I like to start by asking some gentle but important questions: What is your relationship with yourself like? Is it kind? Do you feel safe setting boundaries, or even know what they are? how do you care for yourself when things get hard? These questions matter because the way we treat ourselves sets the tone for how we connect with everyone else in our lives. If any of these feel familiar, then you're in the right place.
Welcome to counseling! My practice is created with you in mind. Yes, I offer relationship counseling for couples and families, but what I've found is that real healing begins with your relationship with yourself. So I like to start by asking some gentle but important questions: What is your relationship with yourself like? Is it kind? Do you feel safe setting boundaries, or even know what they are? how do you care for yourself when things get hard? These questions matter because the way we treat ourselves sets the tone for how we connect with everyone else in our lives. If any of these feel familiar, then you're in the right place.
(804) 531-4305 View (804) 531-4305
Photo of Danien Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, QMHP, LPC
Danien Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, QMHP, LPC
Online Only
Life’s challenges—whether trauma, anxiety, depression, or major transitions—can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to carry them by yourself. Many of my clients come to therapy seeking support for PTSD, trauma recovery, anxiety treatment, or depression counseling while navigating financial stress or even housing instability. Together, we focus on regaining control, developing healthy coping skills, and moving forward with resilience and confidence.
Life’s challenges—whether trauma, anxiety, depression, or major transitions—can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to carry them by yourself. Many of my clients come to therapy seeking support for PTSD, trauma recovery, anxiety treatment, or depression counseling while navigating financial stress or even housing instability. Together, we focus on regaining control, developing healthy coping skills, and moving forward with resilience and confidence.
(240) 670-1807 View (240) 670-1807
Photo of Denisha Hamilton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCATP
Denisha Hamilton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCATP
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Denisha Hamilton is the owner of Journey to Wellness, a group practice that focuses on aiding clients of all ages in VA, MD, and NV towards living a healthier lifestyle. We offer in person and virtual therapy, as well as personal training to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, gender/sexuality issues, divorce, as well as a variety of other issues that impact children, teenagers, and adults. Our philosophy to therapy: “Life is a journey and any impact we can have on helping a person through that journey is an honor and a privilege. We aim to help people understand and accept themselves, and move towards the life they deserve”.
Denisha Hamilton is the owner of Journey to Wellness, a group practice that focuses on aiding clients of all ages in VA, MD, and NV towards living a healthier lifestyle. We offer in person and virtual therapy, as well as personal training to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, gender/sexuality issues, divorce, as well as a variety of other issues that impact children, teenagers, and adults. Our philosophy to therapy: “Life is a journey and any impact we can have on helping a person through that journey is an honor and a privilege. We aim to help people understand and accept themselves, and move towards the life they deserve”.
(571) 200-0754 View (571) 200-0754
Photo of Kiara Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Kiara Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Online Only
Hello, I'm Kiara, a licensed clinical social worker based in Virginia with 8 years of experience. Helping to heal trauma has quickly become one of my passions. I use a technique that combines somatic (body) and cognitive (mind) techniques to help trauma survivors rediscover their power. My greatest strength as a provider is breaking down complex ideas into smaller more palatable ideas. Psychoeducation is an essential part of my practice and I believe it’s a necessary part of healing. Please visit www.athirdplacetherapy.com for booking information and inquires.
Hello, I'm Kiara, a licensed clinical social worker based in Virginia with 8 years of experience. Helping to heal trauma has quickly become one of my passions. I use a technique that combines somatic (body) and cognitive (mind) techniques to help trauma survivors rediscover their power. My greatest strength as a provider is breaking down complex ideas into smaller more palatable ideas. Psychoeducation is an essential part of my practice and I believe it’s a necessary part of healing. Please visit www.athirdplacetherapy.com for booking information and inquires.
(757) 530-5246 View (757) 530-5246

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FAQ - Black and African American Counselling
As an African American, why might I wish to see a therapist who is African American?
Working with an African American therapist can often mean that you start from a place of shared understanding with a therapist rather than having to explain your experience from scratch. A therapist who shares your racial identity is more likely to understand the specific pressures shaping your mental health, including navigating racism, cultural identity, and the overall experience of being Black in the United States. They are also more likely to understand the role that family, community, and cultural expectations play in your life without requiring a lengthy explanation. This shared foundation can create a greater sense of safety in the therapeutic relationship and make it easier to open up at the start of therapy.

Are there Black therapists who specialize in working with Black men or Black women?
Yes, many Black therapists have specific experience working with Black men or Black women. While therapists who work with Black clients broadly address concerns relevant to all genders, like anxiety or depression, those with a gender-specific focus are equipped to work with you on the particular ways that race and gender may intersect. For example, some therapists may specialize in working with Black women on topics like body image or maternal mental health, while other therapists may work with Black men on topics such as relationships or masculinity.

Do Black therapists offer marriage and couples counseling?
Yes, many Black therapists are trained in couples and marriage counseling and can work with partners navigating a wide range of relationship challenges. Therapists who identify as Black may have a better understanding of the cultural dynamics surrounding marriage, family roles, and conflict that are specific to African American communities and can work with you and your partner without making assumptions about your background.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with Black clients?
The initial consultation, which is typically a brief phone or video call, is the right time to raise a therapist’s experience working with Black clients. You can ask specific questions, such as "Do you have experience working with Black clients?" or more broad questions, such as "How do you approach cultural identity in your practice?". During the initial consultation, you can also ask whether they have undertaken training in cultural competence and how they would handle a situation where a cultural misunderstanding arose in therapy. A therapist who responds to these questions thoughtfully and without defensiveness is a good sign they are equipped to work with you effectively.

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.