1. Going to therapy is like being on a train track, and sometimes a therapist can only take you so far. You need to know when to get off the track.
2. Set up a consultation with a therapist and ask them how they are committed to liberation and anti-racist work.
3. If you identify as Black and they are non-Black, ask them, do Black bodies matter to them? (Watch for body language and posture for the therapist’s response to this question) Notice if you feel safe to ask this question.
4. Please ask your therapist what their training is in. Many therapists will say they specialize in everything, but the truth is you want to find a therapist who is good at what you need. For example, if you’re looking for a trauma therapist, you want to make sure this therapist has been trained or guided in working with trauma. Or if you’re looking for a couple’s therapist, ask the therapist for their specific training or guidance they have had in couple’s therapy.
5. The most important part of finding a therapist is what I call the therapeutic vibe. The therapeutic vibe is a present connection you feel with your therapist. You feel like you can be seen and heard. If you don’t feel seen and heard, there should be safety in the relationship which can be addressed in the therapeutic process. Remember, therapists need help just like everyone else. We live in the same system as you.
6. Ask the therapist their commitment to their own healing work.
7. The best way to find a therapist is to ask around in your own community. Referrals are always a good way to know communities you trust. Here are a few local communities we work with and trust and who value mental wellness.
@crownedbycrawford
@cornbreadyoga
@getreadi
@bellasentrik
@thefloralstandard
@squeezers_juice_bar
@marty_roczlocz
@freequeency
@@btrccpllc
@thecarversa
@coolkidsclubhousenc
@sagesanantonio
@treeoflifecounseling
@allthatliesingray
Who would be good people for referrals? Maybe your local beauty shop and barbershops.
8. Here is a list of social media and directories to look for a therapist. Favorite accounts and websites we follow are:
@inclusivetherapist
@therapyforblackgirls
@ablockfemoletherapist
nqttcn.com
innopsych.com
soulaceapp.com
traptherapist.com
ayanatherapy.com
latinxtherapy.com
healingincolour.com
cliniciansokolor.org
therapyforlatinx.com
inclusivetherapists.com
southasiantherapists.org
therapyforblackmen.org
therapythatliberates.com
therapyforblackgirls.com
blackfemaletherapists.com
wholebrothersmission.com
thelovelandfoundation.org
atherapistlikeme.org
blacktherapistnetwork.com
therapyforqpoc.com
melaninandmentalhealth.com
borislhensonfoundation.org
www.bewellmentolheolth.org
