Wellness
The stigma of therapy in the black community has long hindered our willingness to mind our mental health.
Thankfully, transparent stories about the positive impact of counseling are slowly changing the tide and shifting negative perspectives. Big names like Myleik Teele, Amanda Seales, and even Jay-Z, are normalizing the conversation by openly discussing the role of therapy in their lives.
Nonetheless, there is still this fear of the unknown. If you're a newbie to the therapy scene, finding a good fit can seem daunting, awkward, or weird. Take the edge off by checking out these 4 Black therapists that will make you want to sit in their chair.
Dr. Joy Harden Bradford - @TherapyForBlackGirls
Dr. Joy Harden Bradford
Not quite sure you're ready to take the leap into therapy? Dr. Joy Harden Bradford will change your mind with her down to earth approach.
She provides a plethora of information specifically targeted to Black women through her podcast, Therapy for Black Girls. You'll love that she eliminates the guesswork by providing a directory of black therapists around the nation. Dive into her podcast, join her Facebook group, and follow her on Insta. You'll feel a part of a community and less alone as you embark on your healing journey.
Mercedes Samudio, LCSW - @shameproofparenting
Mercedes Samudio is the founder of Shame Proof Parenting. She began the #endparentshaming campaign to address recurring feelings of guilt that she noticed among parents. Her ultimate goal is to help parents overcome negative thoughts about their imperfections and develop a healthy parent identity.
Melissa Dumaz, LMFT - @uhelpyou
Melissa Dumaz is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. With 15 years of experience, she helps clients overcome trauma, grief, and loss. Melissa also helps mothers navigate parenting at all stages, offering specialized services to single mothers. On any given day, you can catch her as a featured speaker or podcast guest.
Dr. Shena Young - @embodiedtruthhealing
Dr. Shena is the founder of Embodied Truth Healing & Psychological Services. She uses a nontraditional approach to therapy that helps people of color overcome sexual traumas through holistic healing.
Her 8-week program, En Rising Light, combines group therapy with trauma informed yoga. Dr. Shena also includes dance/movement and energy healing in her therapy sessions. Her approach is intended to heal the whole self – mind, body, heart, and spirit.
Related Stories:
- The Founder of Therapy For Black Girls Gives Us A Beginner's Guide to Therapy - Read More
- Janelle Monae on How Therapy and Love Helped Her Resolve Anger Issues - Read More
- The Boss Girl's Guide to Therapy - Read More
- Women Are Using Yoni Steams to Heal Themselves From Reproductive Issues and Sexual Traumas - Read More
Is it important to have a therapist who looks like you? Let us know in the comments down below.
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