50 Black women therapists in 50 states—pioneering healing, representation, and culturally affirming care

Representation, awareness, and empathy in therapy matter. That’s why these 50 Black women therapists are worth knowing and celebrating.

Note: While this article highlights Black women therapists, The Love Your Mind Project also values the contributions of non-binary and gender–expansive Black mental health professionals who bring healing to our communities.

For many Black women, finding a therapist who really “gets us” and our struggles can be hard, especially when we make up such a small portion of the psychology workforce.¹ 

But we’re out there, pioneering culturally affirming care in our communities. 

This list acknowledges and celebrates Black women therapists who offer much-needed and compassionate support nationwide.

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Why culturally affirming care matters for Black women

Therapy works best when there’s trust and empathy with your therapist—when you can share the hardest parts of your story without having to explain or translate your pain.

Culturally affirming care isn’t just about finding a therapist who looks like you. It’s connecting with someone who understands the context—gender and racial bias, colorism, cultural expectations, and complex family dynamics—and can help you navigate it. 

When care reflects the fullness of who we are, it’s one less barrier on our journey to healing.

>> MORE: Explore these low-cost therapy options for Black women

50 Black women therapists breaking barriers and nurturing healing across the U.S.

These therapists make space for us to heal and live our best lives. You can find them (and others) in directories, like Therapy for Black Girls, Black Female Therapists, and Psychology Today.

Some therapists are licensed in more than one state. So if you like what you see, it may be worth reaching out.

>> Check out this Black woman’s guide to loving your mind

Alabama: Nicole Lewis, licensed psychotherapist

Legacy Wellness Services

Nicole understands the weight many Black women carry under the “strong Black woman” expectation. She creates a warm, affirming space where you don’t have to shrink, overperform, or explain—just show up as you are and be supported. 

Learn more from Nicole’s Black Female Therapists profile.

Alaska: Paris Taylor, licensed clinical social worker

Greenspace Counseling

Paris’s Walk & Talk therapy incorporates nature into the healing process. As a daughter, wife, mother, and sister of combat veterans, she’s deeply connected to the military community. She can offer a unique perspective to Black and Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) who share these experiences. 

Connect with Paris at Greenspace Counseling.

Arizona: Janet Melvin, psychiatric nurse practitioner

Samaritan Psychiatry and Wellness

Janet takes a special interest in helping women on the autism spectrum. She also supports those navigating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and schizophrenia. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, she can provide both talk therapy and medication management when needed. 

Connect with Janet through Samaritan Psychiatry and Wellness. 

Arkansas: Sharita Bilson, licensed professional counselor

Grace Place Therapy

Sharita is committed to helping Black women break the generational cycles that keep us stuck. She builds trust with her clients and offers a safe space to process both daily struggles and long-standing patterns. As a partner on your healing journey, she’ll empower you to rewrite your story and cultivate the life you deserve. 

Learn more and connect with her at Grace Place Therapy.

California: Jillian McCoy, licensed marriage and family therapist

And professional clinical counselor at Jillian McCoy Therapy

Jillian is a trauma therapist experienced in supporting survivors of interpersonal violence. Driven by a desire to help clients see and nurture their full selves, she reminds us that we’re so much more than our hardest moments and most painful mistakes. She is committed to driving social change one relationship at a time, with clarity and compassion. 

Learn more and connect with her at Jillian McCoy Therapy.

Colorado: Danielle Jones, licensed professional counselor

Listen Counseling Center

Danielle champions those of us who’ve felt unseen or left out of traditional therapy spaces. She fully embraces inclusivity, specializing in the experiences of the Queer and Trans BIPOC (QTBIPOC) community and actively dismantling biases in her own thinking. With a solutions-focused style, she helps clients build practical skills and take steps toward lasting, positive change. 

Learn more and connect with Danielle at Listen Counseling Center.

Connecticut: Martine Saintilus, licensed clinical social worker

Martine helps women find their voices, build self-esteem, and develop healthy coping skills for life’s challenges. If you want faith-based care, she offers Christian counseling that integrates biblical principles and prayer. With warmth and dedication, she creates space for clients to finally release the burdens they’ve carried for so long. 

Explore Martine’s Headway profile to learn more.

Delaware: Anquinette Wiggins, licensed professional mental health counselor

Anquinette is a deep and active listener who became a therapist after 26 years in banking. Her life and career experiences help her connect with high-achieving Black women and those dealing with unresolved trauma, relational conflicts, depression, anxiety, grief, compassion fatigue, and more. She recognizes the courage it takes to start this emotional wellness journey and is committed to helping clients reach their goals. 

Learn more by visiting Anquinette’s Rula profile.

Florida: Dr. Patricia S. Dixon, licensed clinical psychologist

Manatee Associates of Counseling & Assessment

Dr. Dixon helps clients who feel stuck in their careers, relationships, or life overall. Blending talk therapy, coaching, and sound therapy, she takes a whole-person approach in helping her clients live authentically and intentionally. She believes life’s storms can serve as transportation toward your blessing, and she’s excited to partner with clients in the healing process. 

Learn more and connect with Dr. Dixon at Manatee Associates of Counseling & Assessment.

Georgia: Dr. Ikeranda Smith, psychologist

and professor and life coach at drikeranda.com

Dr. Smith centers her work on self-love, encouraging clients to embrace themselves fully as the foundation for healing. She helps clients dismantle inherited family constructs and unlearn self-destructive patterns. Dr. Smith brings family to the heart of her practice, with research informing how trauma affects our ability to love ourselves and others. 

Connect with her at drikeranda.com.

Hawaii: Dr. Kourtney Tapnio, psychiatric nurse practitioner

Ohana Holistic Psychiatry

Dr. Tapnio knows firsthand the barriers underserved communities face in accessing mental health care, and she’s committed to serving these groups. Integrating therapy with medical care, she helps clients navigate stress, anxiety, depression, or other concerns with compassion. 

Connect with Dr. Tapnio at Ohana Holistic Psychiatry.

Idaho: Andrea Pikes, licensed professional counselor

Ascension Counseling Services

Andrea offers a no-judgment space where you can explore your full self. She believes in helping clients tap into their inner strengths and resiliency to unlock their highest potential. Andrea combines counseling and art therapy to help individuals overcome any trauma or obstacle, big or small.

Learn more about Andrea at Ascension Counseling Services.

Illinois: Kheri Dunkins, licensed clinical professional counselor

Elevate Counseling + Wellness

Kheri supports clients in nurturing every facet of their identities, understanding how our race, gender, sexuality, religion, and more, intertwine to shape our individual experiences. Her affirming and empathetic care is especially helpful if you’re dealing with racial or cultural identity challenges, LGBTQ+ issues, or toxic relationships of all types—including narcissistic abuse. You can also connect with her for support for anxiety, depression, or trauma.

Learn more and connect with her at Elevate Counseling + Wellness.

Indiana: Tonisha King, licensed mental health counselor associate

Grace Love & Connection

Tonisha grounds her work in compassion, love, and grace. With a welcoming space for clients to explore and overcome challenges, she offers a range of therapies, including faith-based counseling when requested. Her passion for empowering individuals and families is rooted in kindness and a genuine desire to see others thrive. 

Connect with Tonisha at Grace Love and Connection.

Iowa: Omnia Yeater, licensed social worker

Green Counseling Services

Omnia has extensive experience in crisis units and substance use clinics, supporting clients through some of life’s most difficult challenges. She specializes in obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), grief, and other concerns that aren’t always talked about, but deserve equally compassionate care—all with a supportive, nonjudgmental approach. 

Connect with Omnia at Green Counseling & Wellness.

Kansas: Dr. Sophia Howard, licensed psychologist

Jordan Psychological Center

Dr. Howard brings specialized training in eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. She offers culturally responsive, trauma-informed, mindfulness-based care across a wide range of issues—including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and major life transitions. 

Learn more about Dr. Howard at Jordan Psychological Center.

Kentucky: Dr. Kendra Mulder, licensed clinical social worker

Healing Roots Centre

Dr. Mulder is devoted to equitable mental health care access. Her research on the strong Black woman schema discusses how to lessen the negative impact while still honoring the positive cultural values tied to it. Through her work, she helps clients heal and build resilience so they can thrive. 

Connect with Dr. Mulder at Healing Roots Centre.

Louisiana: Shannon Armstrong, Provisional licensed professional counselor

ETC Counseling Center

Shannon is a compassionate presence for anyone who has struggled with addiction, a mental health crisis, or just felt like life has knocked them off balance. With nearly a decade in mental health rehabilitation and addiction services, she helps clients regain stability, rebuild relationships, and restore their sense of self-worth. 

Connect with Shannon at ETC Counseling Center.

Maine: Donnielle Woods, licensed master social worker clinical conditional

Virago Wellness

Donnielle supports women who feel overwhelmed or “not good enough,” especially after sexual trauma, racial trauma, or betrayal. Acknowledging how trauma can impact the mind and body, she uses a multifaceted approach with her clients, and she’s particularly drawn to BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and neurodiverse communities.

Learn more about Donnielle at Virago Wellness.

Maryland: Belinda Davis, licensed clinical social worker

Warner Psychology Associates

Belinda walks with clients through life’s biggest transitions, including divorce, empty nesting, career stress, grief, and trauma. She helps Black women reconnect with themselves to build confidence and uncover true strength. With compassion and insight, Belinda offers a supportive space where together you can create the life you deserve. 

Learn more about Belinda at Warner Psychology Associates.

Massachusetts: Mercy Tandoh, licensed mental health counselor

RAI Counseling Services 

Mercy supports clients dealing with trauma, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Her practice is rooted in respect, compassion, and empowerment. She has extensive experience as a therapist and is honored to help individuals on their journeys of healing and growth. 

Learn more and connect with Mercy at RAI Counseling.

Michigan: Lakisha McGraw, licensed professional counselor

Gems Counseling Services

Lakisha provides individual, group, and family therapy for substance use, anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship challenges. She takes a client-centric approach to meet you where you are and help you make positive changes in your life. 

Connect with Lakisha at GEMS Counseling.

Minnesota: Seynab Hussein, licensed independent clinical social worker

The Family Development Center

Seynab creates a safe, welcoming space where clients feel heard, especially those whose voices, like hers, have been silenced. A Somali immigrant of Islamic faith, she knows what it’s like to feel forced to assimilate and brings this deep cultural awareness to her work. Through therapy, Seynab helps clients strengthen relationships, honor their identities, and find healing in their stories. 

You can learn more and connect with Seynab at The Family Development Center.

Mississippi: Dyelicia Vasquez, licensed clinical social worker

Dyelicia supports clients through anxiety, depression, stress, grief, and trauma. She believes finding purpose is an important part of healing and growth, so she walks alongside you with care as you uncover your strengths and become your best self.  

Learn more from Dyelicia’s Headway profile.

Missouri: Dacia Moore, licensed professional counselor

Second Wind Counseling and Consulting

Dacia is passionate about helping the Black community prioritize mental health and be our best selves. She helps Christian women and leaders uncover the beliefs that fuel fear, anxiety, and distress. Through therapy, coaching, workshops, and keynote talks, she shares how to live with courage, clarity, and accountability as we pursue God’s purpose for our lives. 

Connect with Dacia at Second Wind Counseling and Consulting.

Montana: Dr. Rita Billow, licensed psychologist

Dr. Billow works side by side with her clients to uncover their strengths, address painful patterns, and build tools for resilience. She supports individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and relationship challenges with warmth and care. Her goal is for you to feel grounded, understood, and empowered. 

Explore Dr. Billow’s Headway profile to learn more.

Nebraska: Alisha Nutt, licensed independent mental health practitioner

Innerwork Counseling

Alisha can help you recognize unhealthy patterns that block your progress and uncover the “why” behind your behaviors and choices. And with that awareness, she guides you through practical steps toward a life that aligns with your goals. Her approach creates space for a deeper understanding of self and tangible progress. 

Learn more and connect with Alisha at Inner Work Counseling.

Nevada: Destinie Cleveland, counseling intern

And somatic practitioner at Ominira

For Destinie, therapy is less about fixing and more about reconnecting—with your identity, your values, and your story. She invites clients to separate what they’ve lived from what they’ve inherited, and helps them live with more clarity, self-trust, and intention. Her care challenges the systems and narratives that have limited us and offers healing that honors your full humanity, not just progress. 

Connect with her at Ominira Therapy.

New Hampshire: Miranda M. McKinley, licensed clinical social worker

M3 Life Therapy

Miranda, a Queer Black Femme therapist, is dedicated to providing LGBTQIA+ and gender-affirming, culturally responsive, trauma-informed care—especially for those in underserved BIPOC communities. Committed to decolonizing therapy, she supports individuals dealing with generational trauma, compassion fatigue, and the weight of social injustices. 

Learn more and connect with Miranda at M3 Life Therapy.

New Jersey: Cantinasway Founder, licensed clinical social worker

As a Black woman on the autism spectrum, the founder of Catina’s Way supports late-diagnosed women navigating a world where they’re not always accepted or understood. She models bravery and authenticity—even when it doesn’t fit others’ expectations—and uses evidence-based therapy for solution-oriented care. She creates space for women to embrace who they are, unapologetically. 

Learn more and connect with her at Catinasway.

New Mexico: Charlycia Strain, certified peer support worker

Whole Self Counseling

Charlycia draws from lived experiences to help clients navigate challenges, build coping strategies, and make meaningful changes in their lives. She has a passion for individuals impacted by racism and discrimination, including the LGBTQ+ community and those facing faith-related or cultural identity struggles. Charlycia offers encouragement and practical guidance for anxiety, trauma, or major life transitions.

Connect with Charlycia at Whole Self Counseling.

New York: Lynette Miller-Volel, licensed clinical social worker

Path of Compassion Therapy

Lynette specializes in OCD and anxiety, helping ambitious professionals stuck in cycles of worry. She understands the overwhelm that can come with intrusive thoughts and doubts, so she partners with clients to shift out of the harmful thought patterns and behaviors. Her goal is to help you rebuild self-trust, find clarity, and live a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Learn more and connect with Lynette at Path of Compassion Therapy.

North Carolina: Ann-Marie Johnson, licensed clinical social worker

OWR Therapy 

Ann-Marie helps clients address thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety, depression, stress, and more. Her approach is collaborative, working with you to set goals and rediscover your strengths and resilience along the way. She has specialized training in complex trauma, supporting clients through divorce, military life, abuse, or the loss of a child, as well as anxiety, depression, and stress.

Connect with Ann-Marie at OWR Therapy.

North Dakota: Tori Ngatia, licensed professional counselor

We Thrive Counseling

Tori walks with her clients through life’s hardest seasons. She specializes in trauma, PTSD, grief, anxiety, depression, panic disorder, and more. Clients can expect a safe, nurturing, and nonjudgmental space to freely explore thoughts and emotions as Tori guides them to greater self-awareness, resilience, and overall emotional well-being. 

Connect with Tori at We Thrive Counseling.

Ohio: Shaquoi Warren, licensed professional counselor

Recoup + Relief Counseling & Therapeutic Services 

Shaquoi offers an unbiased, comfortable environment where you can expect support, respect, and empathy on your journey to positive change. She is LGBTQIA+ affirming and assists with a range of concerns, like trauma, gender and sexuality concerns, self-esteem, and depression. Her priority is a strong therapeutic relationship, where you feel seen and heard along the way.

Learn more and connect with Shaquoi at Recoup + Relief Counseling.

Oklahoma: Delisha Porter, licensed professional counselor

Legacy Family Services

Delisha acknowledges the courage it takes to try therapy. That’s why she’s committed to providing a judgment-free environment where you can explore your emotions and navigate challenges with trauma, sexual abuse, relationship challenges, and more. Clients can expect a therapeutic approach centered around them. 

Learn more about Delisha at Legacy Family Services. 

Oregon: Agatha Peters, licensed clinical social worker

Beautiful Shine Therapy

Agatha’s client-led approach means you take the lead on what to discuss and work on in therapy. Together, you’ll understand your emotions and thought processes and challenge what’s in the way of you reaching your goals. Originally from Nigeria, Agatha helps her clients move toward peace and brighter days. 

Learn more and connect with Agatha at Beautiful Sunshine Therapy.

Pennsylvania: Nichelle Lynn-Hennigan, licensed professional counselor

And psychotherapist at Essence Wellness Counseling

Nichelle believes therapy is a collaborative journey, with you in the driver’s seat and her serving as your trusted guide. She tailors each session to the individual’s needs. With active listening, deep respect, and practical guidance, Nichelle strives to empower clients to live more connected and confident lives. 

Connect with Nichelle at My Essence Wellness.

Rhode Island: Fraynelis Andujar, licensed independent clinical social worker 

Fraynelis is a bilingual (Spanish/English) therapist inspired as a child by her mother’s experience with “ataque de nervios” (attack of the nerves). She believes the therapeutic relationship is just as important as her expertise. Known for her outgoing personality, you can expect genuine friendliness and laughter as you connect. 

Explore Fraynelis’ Headway profile to learn more.

South Carolina: Shenna Ganzy, licensed professional counselor supervisor

She’s Counseling

Shenna blends counseling and cosmetology to support clients experiencing hair loss through Medicaid-approved cranial prosthetics. She also offers care for anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and more. Her compassionate and personalized care helps clients build confidence and resilience.

Learn more and connect with Shenna at She’s Counseling.

South Dakota: Peace Banks, psychiatric nurse practitioner

PeaceHaven Behavioral Center

Dr. Banks draws from her extensive experience in nursing and mental health settings, like intensive care, surgical units, and emergency mental health care, to help clients find stability and peace of mind. She combines clinical expertise and compassion for those navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, and more. 

Learn more and connect with Dr. Banks on her website.

Tennessee: Joi Mosley, licensed clinical social worker

Theraplaybook

Joi supports athletes dealing with performance anxiety, depression, anger, and mental blocks. Determined to break the stigma around mental health in the athletic community, she helps clients develop a strong relationship with themselves to become their best selves—empowering them to celebrate wins, big and small, along the way. 

Learn more and connect with Joi at TheraPlaybook.

Texas: Stephanie Johnson, licensed professional counselor

New Patterns Counseling

Stephanie wants to make clear that we’re not broken, crazy, or in need of fixing. Instead, we need to become experts on ourselves and use that knowledge to create a life where we thrive. She supports clients navigating loss, depression, anxiety, family conflict, pressure, and low motivation.  

Connect with Stephanie at New Patterns Counseling.

Utah: Dr. LaShawn C. Williams, licensed clinical social worker

And relational change strategist at Dr.LaShawn.com

Dr. LaShawn knows the importance of connection, the pain of isolation, and the resurgence of life when relationships are transformed. So she helps clients build and maintain quality relationships, prioritizing those that matter most and supporting them in a life that aligns with their core values.

Connect with her at DrLaShawn.com.

Vermont: Erin Baker-Meno, pre-licensed mental health clinical

Through to Thrive

Erin is committed to addressing the unique challenges of marginalized populations, supporting generational healing, advocacy and social justice. As a BIPOC, queer, femme clinician, she meets her clients where they are, honoring the totality of their experiences and strengths. Expect a warm, welcoming, and affirming space, where you’re free to explore your thoughts and feelings on topics like relationship issues, challenging family dynamics, postpartum challenges, identity development, and systemic oppression.

Learn more about Erin at Through to Thrive.

Virginia: Dr. Monique Wilson, psychologist

NeuroLogic Psychology

Dr. Wilson provides person-centered care tailored to each client’s needs. With rigorous clinical training and leadership in brain-injury advocacy, she brings a deep understanding of how the brain works. Her goal is to prove the exceptional service she believes each of us deserves.

Connect with Dr. Wilson at Neurologic Psychology.

Washington: Shirley Lytle, licensed mental health counselor

Living With Purpose Counseling

Shirley integrates therapy and spirituality, supporting individuals, couples, and families in a variety of areas, including anxiety, depression, couples counseling, and life transitions. Rooted in Christian counseling, she meets clients where they are, helping them live their purpose and plan even in difficult seasons. 

Learn more about Shirley at Living With Purpose Counseling.

West Virginia: Kierra Whitman, licensed professional counselor

Hidden Peaces

Kierra supports women and gender non-conforming individuals who’ve felt like “misfits,” labeled as broken, too much, or not enough. She specializes in trauma, neurodiversity, and helping clients reduce the emotional and physical weight of trigger responses. As an artist, Kierra also incorporates art into her therapeutic approach, bringing her full self into her work and inspiring deep, authentic living. 

Connect with Kierra at Hidden Peaces.

Wisconsin: Esperanza Winters, licensed professional counselor

The Practice MKE

Esperanza works with driven women who are overwhelmed by putting everyone else’s needs before their own. Sitting and nodding is not her thing. She digs deep, building trusting and meaningful relationships with their clients to help them get unstuck. Her nonjudgmental, down-to-earth approach blends humor and honesty—evidence that therapy doesn’t always have to be doom and gloom. Connect with her for help navigating self-esteem, stress, or relationship issues, or building the life you desire. 

Learn more about Esperanza at The Practice MKE.

Wyoming: Dr. Airriell Thomas, psychologist

The Healing and Wellness Collective

Dr. Thomas helps couples strengthen their connection, navigate conflict, and clarify shared goals—support everything from intimacy and communication to finances and family planning in a structured, affirming way. She also offers one-on-one care for anxiety, depression, life transitions, or other concerns. Both couples and individuals under her care can expect genuine openness and space for self-exploration, reflection, and building resilience.

Connect with Dr. Thomas at The Healing and Wellness Collective.

Washington, D.C.*: Makaria Hamilton, pre-licensed professional

The Healing Collective Therapy & Wellness

Makaria is committed to providing affirming and equitable care for historically marginalized communities. She blends empathy, structure, and deep listening in her approach. To her, healing is collective, culturally informed, and rooted in self-determination. She has experience with groups and community organizations, in addition to one-on-one support.  

Learn more about Makaria at The Healing Collective Therapy and Wellness.

These Black women therapists are redefining what healing looks like—creating space for authenticity, resilience, and culturally affirming care. Wherever you are in your journey, the right therapist can walk alongside you as you heal and reclaim your joy.

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Black women therapists FAQs

How do I find a Black woman therapist near me?

Start with trusted directories like TherapyForBlackGirls.com and BlackFemaleTherapists.com. You can also filter by ethnicity, specialization, religion, and more on sites like Psychology Today, BetterHelp, and Talkspace. Message a few therapists you like and use the first session or so to determine if they’re a fit—the right fit matters. 

What if I like a therapist not in my state?

A therapist’s license determines where they can provide therapy, even virtually. If someone feels like the right fit, ask if they’re licensed to offer care in your state. If so, you may be able to work with them through online or telehealth sessions.

How do I know if it’s a good fit with my therapist?

The first few sessions are about building trust. Notice how you feel—are you comfortable being vulnerable? Do you feel affirmed, respected, and truly heard? A good therapist won’t leave you feeling judged or silenced. And if it doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to explore other options.

*District, technically not a state.

References

1. Data, C. (2017). CWS Data Tool: Demographics of the U.S. Psychology Workforce. Https://Www.apa.org. https://www.apa.org/workforce/data-tools/demographics ↩︎