Black and African American Therapists in Sterling, VA
My ideal client might not fully know what's happening with them but is willing to try to figure it out. My ideal client also understands that I, as their therapist, am here to serve their mental health needs that are within my scope of expertise. If their needs are outside of my expertise, I will do my best to refer them to someone who can better support them.
Lastly, my ideal client is someone who knows that they are the expert on themselves and the therapist is there to offer support for the client to decide what next steps work best for their current goals.
My ideal client might not fully know what's happening with them but is willing to try to figure it out. My ideal client also understands that I, as their therapist, am here to serve their mental health needs that are within my scope of expertise. If their needs are outside of my expertise, I will do my best to refer them to someone who can better support them.
Lastly, my ideal client is someone who knows that they are the expert on themselves and the therapist is there to offer support for the client to decide what next steps work best for their current goals.
I specialize in helping adolescents and adults manage anxiety, navigate life transitions, strengthen relationships, and reduce stress. I work especially well with high achievers and those in demanding roles. Many clients face school, career, or family pressures while quietly struggling with self-doubt, burnout, or loneliness. I have a special interest in supporting high school and college students navigating identity, perfectionism, or academic stress. Clients seek to feel grounded, connected, and aligned with who they are, not just who they’re expected to be.
I specialize in helping adolescents and adults manage anxiety, navigate life transitions, strengthen relationships, and reduce stress. I work especially well with high achievers and those in demanding roles. Many clients face school, career, or family pressures while quietly struggling with self-doubt, burnout, or loneliness. I have a special interest in supporting high school and college students navigating identity, perfectionism, or academic stress. Clients seek to feel grounded, connected, and aligned with who they are, not just who they’re expected to be.
I am trained to use CBT, ACT, DBT, solution focused, attachment, and strength based approaches to support black/ African-American, Asian, Latinx and clients from other backgrounds who are living with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, OCD tendencies, and more.
I work with individuals navigating chronic illness who may be struggling with grief, isolation, shame, loss of identity, changes in relationships, and the emotional impact of limitations that feel outside of their control. Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been managing a condition for many years, therapy can provide a space to process the challenges that come with adapting to ongoing changes and uncertainty. Together, we work toward building practical coping strategies, increasing emotional resilience, improving communication and boundaries, and creating a life that feels meaningful despite ongoing challenges.
I am trained to use CBT, ACT, DBT, solution focused, attachment, and strength based approaches to support black/ African-American, Asian, Latinx and clients from other backgrounds who are living with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, OCD tendencies, and more.
I work with individuals navigating chronic illness who may be struggling with grief, isolation, shame, loss of identity, changes in relationships, and the emotional impact of limitations that feel outside of their control. Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been managing a condition for many years, therapy can provide a space to process the challenges that come with adapting to ongoing changes and uncertainty. Together, we work toward building practical coping strategies, increasing emotional resilience, improving communication and boundaries, and creating a life that feels meaningful despite ongoing challenges.
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.
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.
Welcome. If you’re reading this, you’ve already taken a courageous first step. Are you or your teenage son navigating a difficult season, feeling stuck, or trying to manage the pressure of the legal system? Men and adolescent boys face unique complexities when it comes to emotional well-being, and finding a space where you feel genuinely understood can be tough. I provide a compassionate, supportive, and judgment-free space tailored to helping individuals across the lifespan process life's challenges. You don't have to navigate these hurdles alone; we will work together to get you back on track toward your goals.
Welcome. If you’re reading this, you’ve already taken a courageous first step. Are you or your teenage son navigating a difficult season, feeling stuck, or trying to manage the pressure of the legal system? Men and adolescent boys face unique complexities when it comes to emotional well-being, and finding a space where you feel genuinely understood can be tough. I provide a compassionate, supportive, and judgment-free space tailored to helping individuals across the lifespan process life's challenges. You don't have to navigate these hurdles alone; we will work together to get you back on track toward your goals.
I specialize working with families, children and adolescents in a safe and collaborative environment that is non-judgmental and client focused. My goal is to help clients identify issues in order to develop treatment plan with measurable goals and objectives. We will start where you are to develop rapport and a sense of self-determination. I specialize in working with families struggling with life's transitions. I assist children and adolescents with developmental stages, social skills, and parent/child relationships.
I specialize working with families, children and adolescents in a safe and collaborative environment that is non-judgmental and client focused. My goal is to help clients identify issues in order to develop treatment plan with measurable goals and objectives. We will start where you are to develop rapport and a sense of self-determination. I specialize in working with families struggling with life's transitions. I assist children and adolescents with developmental stages, social skills, and parent/child relationships.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or struggling with anxiety or depression? Life's challenges can be exhausting, but you don’t have to face them alone. I offer compassionate support and personalized guidance to help you navigate obstacles, build resilience, and regain balance. Together, we’ll address your concerns and work towards healing and personal growth. Whether you're facing a difficult transition, relationship issues, or simply seeking more clarity, I’m here to help you every step of the way
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or struggling with anxiety or depression? Life's challenges can be exhausting, but you don’t have to face them alone. I offer compassionate support and personalized guidance to help you navigate obstacles, build resilience, and regain balance. Together, we’ll address your concerns and work towards healing and personal growth. Whether you're facing a difficult transition, relationship issues, or simply seeking more clarity, I’m here to help you every step of the way
The Sex Therapist you never knew you needed! When client’s come to my office to seek therapy, the one part of themselves that is most often neglected is sexuality! Most people don’t even mention sexual beliefs, curiosities, behaviors, or attitudes until I ask. I believe that sexuality is so much a part of who we are, there is no way to fully heal and truly be at peace if our sexuality is not explored! As well as specializing in Sex Therapy, I’m also a Clinical Trauma Therapist and provide Ketamine Assisted Therapy to those with unresolved trauma, persistent depression, and anxiety.
The Sex Therapist you never knew you needed! When client’s come to my office to seek therapy, the one part of themselves that is most often neglected is sexuality! Most people don’t even mention sexual beliefs, curiosities, behaviors, or attitudes until I ask. I believe that sexuality is so much a part of who we are, there is no way to fully heal and truly be at peace if our sexuality is not explored! As well as specializing in Sex Therapy, I’m also a Clinical Trauma Therapist and provide Ketamine Assisted Therapy to those with unresolved trauma, persistent depression, and anxiety.
Now accepting Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, & United Healthcare Insurance • My ideal client is someone who feels weighed down by life—whether that is depression, anxiety, trauma, or substance use—and is ready to take steps toward change, even if they’re unsure where to begin. I draw from my experience working with U.S. Veterans and others facing complex challenges to offer a safe, nonjudgmental space to process experiences, gain insight, and build practical tools for coping. Many I work with seek not only relief from symptoms, but also growth in self-understanding, healthier relationships, and a stronger sense of purpose.
Now accepting Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, & United Healthcare Insurance • My ideal client is someone who feels weighed down by life—whether that is depression, anxiety, trauma, or substance use—and is ready to take steps toward change, even if they’re unsure where to begin. I draw from my experience working with U.S. Veterans and others facing complex challenges to offer a safe, nonjudgmental space to process experiences, gain insight, and build practical tools for coping. Many I work with seek not only relief from symptoms, but also growth in self-understanding, healthier relationships, and a stronger sense of purpose.
I've worked in the field of counseling/social work for almost 30 years. I also served as an adjunct professor of social work for over 10 years, so I like to incorporate teachings on mental health issues into sessions (psychoeducation). I'm an author of four books and creator of the Date or Mate conversation card game. I also provide supervision for clinicians working towards independent licensure. Most of my clients are males who are dealing with anxiety, depression, and/or trauma; however, I do work with females as well. I can work with adult individuals residing in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC.
I've worked in the field of counseling/social work for almost 30 years. I also served as an adjunct professor of social work for over 10 years, so I like to incorporate teachings on mental health issues into sessions (psychoeducation). I'm an author of four books and creator of the Date or Mate conversation card game. I also provide supervision for clinicians working towards independent licensure. Most of my clients are males who are dealing with anxiety, depression, and/or trauma; however, I do work with females as well. I can work with adult individuals residing in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, relational problems, or maybe struggling with a personal matter? These are challenges that I can assist you with and help improve your outlook on life. I have over 30 years of experience working with families, individuals, and teens. I know the importance of being heard, understood, and feeling validated. Lets have a consultation and work on a comprehensive, holistic, well balanced intervention plan. I also support families and individuals regarding adoption and adoptees.
Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, relational problems, or maybe struggling with a personal matter? These are challenges that I can assist you with and help improve your outlook on life. I have over 30 years of experience working with families, individuals, and teens. I know the importance of being heard, understood, and feeling validated. Lets have a consultation and work on a comprehensive, holistic, well balanced intervention plan. I also support families and individuals regarding adoption and adoptees.
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”.
Life can feel overwhelming when you’re constantly balancing work, school, family, relationships, and expectations of yourself. You may appear “fine” on the outside while privately feeling exhausted, anxious, stuck, or unsure where to begin. I’m here to support you. In therapy, you’ll find a space to breathe, explore what’s been weighing you down, and reconnect with your strengths—without judgment. Together, we’ll work on building self-compassion, emotional clarity, and a grounded sense of control.
Life can feel overwhelming when you’re constantly balancing work, school, family, relationships, and expectations of yourself. You may appear “fine” on the outside while privately feeling exhausted, anxious, stuck, or unsure where to begin. I’m here to support you. In therapy, you’ll find a space to breathe, explore what’s been weighing you down, and reconnect with your strengths—without judgment. Together, we’ll work on building self-compassion, emotional clarity, and a grounded sense of control.
As a parent, it can be heartbreaking to watch your child struggle with big emotions, challenging behaviors, or difficulties at school. You may feel unsure how to best support them, or wish you had more clarity about what’s driving their struggles. You want answers, tools, and hope for a brighter path forward. Whether your child is facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or school-related challenges like navigating IEPs and learning needs, you don’t have to face this alone. Together, we can navigate these challenges and help your child feel more confident, connected, and capable.
As a parent, it can be heartbreaking to watch your child struggle with big emotions, challenging behaviors, or difficulties at school. You may feel unsure how to best support them, or wish you had more clarity about what’s driving their struggles. You want answers, tools, and hope for a brighter path forward. Whether your child is facing anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or school-related challenges like navigating IEPs and learning needs, you don’t have to face this alone. Together, we can navigate these challenges and help your child feel more confident, connected, and capable.
You don’t have to hold it all together. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, self-doubt, trauma, or burnout — you’re not alone. I help adults, teens, and families slow down, reconnect with themselves, and find a path forward. Therapy with me is a space to exhale, feel understood, and begin healing at your own pace. Together, we’ll build tools to help you feel more grounded, confident, and in control.
You don’t have to hold it all together. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, self-doubt, trauma, or burnout — you’re not alone. I help adults, teens, and families slow down, reconnect with themselves, and find a path forward. Therapy with me is a space to exhale, feel understood, and begin healing at your own pace. Together, we’ll build tools to help you feel more grounded, confident, and in control.
Healing Hearts VA, LLC | Jessica Rizk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
4 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20166
We help individuals who feel stuck in painful relationship patterns, whether with a partner, friend, or family member. Maybe you’re healing from a breakup, feeling betrayed, or caught in the same exhausting cycle of giving too much and feeling unseen. You know you’re a good person, yet no matter how hard you try, it feels like you’re disappointing someone or not being valued for who you are. Over time, it’s left you emotionally depleted and unsure how to move forward. You long for peace, confidence, and tools to navigate relationships with strength and clarity.
We help individuals who feel stuck in painful relationship patterns, whether with a partner, friend, or family member. Maybe you’re healing from a breakup, feeling betrayed, or caught in the same exhausting cycle of giving too much and feeling unseen. You know you’re a good person, yet no matter how hard you try, it feels like you’re disappointing someone or not being valued for who you are. Over time, it’s left you emotionally depleted and unsure how to move forward. You long for peace, confidence, and tools to navigate relationships with strength and clarity.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Specializing in helping adolescents & adults navigate life transitions, anxiety, and relationship struggles. My approach is collaborative utilizing a strength-based approach.
I am accepting new clients for evening & weekend appointments in office & tele-health options are available.
Experience 25 years- children 12+, adolescents & adults
Specialty: Depression, Anxiety, School Refusal, Defiance, ADHD & Self-esteem. Grief and Loss, Parenting Medical Support- Cancer, Lupus, Fibromyalgia & Hidradenitis Suppurativa, Renal Failure and Bariatric Counseling.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Specializing in helping adolescents & adults navigate life transitions, anxiety, and relationship struggles. My approach is collaborative utilizing a strength-based approach.
I am accepting new clients for evening & weekend appointments in office & tele-health options are available.
Experience 25 years- children 12+, adolescents & adults
Specialty: Depression, Anxiety, School Refusal, Defiance, ADHD & Self-esteem. Grief and Loss, Parenting Medical Support- Cancer, Lupus, Fibromyalgia & Hidradenitis Suppurativa, Renal Failure and Bariatric Counseling.
With over 15 years of experience in the field of counseling, I’ve dedicated my career to supporting individuals and families through life’s most challenging moments. My background includes extensive work with adolescents, adults and families, and I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.
I work with teens and adults across the state of Virginia, offering a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and respected.
With over 15 years of experience in the field of counseling, I’ve dedicated my career to supporting individuals and families through life’s most challenging moments. My background includes extensive work with adolescents, adults and families, and I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.
I work with teens and adults across the state of Virginia, offering a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and respected.
Life isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is therapy. As a therapist with a background in sports performance, trauma, and relational work, I create a space that honors your unique identity, challenges, and goals. Whether you're navigating anxiety, relationship ruptures, identity development, or life transitions, I’m here to support you with curiosity, compassion, and clarity. My style blends humanistic warmth with a psychodynamic lens, valuing both present-focused strategies and deeper emotional exploration.
Life isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is therapy. As a therapist with a background in sports performance, trauma, and relational work, I create a space that honors your unique identity, challenges, and goals. Whether you're navigating anxiety, relationship ruptures, identity development, or life transitions, I’m here to support you with curiosity, compassion, and clarity. My style blends humanistic warmth with a psychodynamic lens, valuing both present-focused strategies and deeper emotional exploration.
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See More Black and African American Therapists 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.