Person Of Color (POC) Therapists in Connecticut

For individuals of color, connecting with a therapist who shares or deeply understands your experiences can enrich the therapeutic journey. With 14 therapists of color in Connecticut, you can access culturally responsive care that honors your unique identity and challenges—whether navigating identity, addressing microaggressions, or managing stress and mental health concerns. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is accepting new clients and offers timely availability, providing inclusive, compassionate support tailored to your needs.

Patricia Jenkins-Simmons

(she/her)

Patricia Jenkins-Simmons, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
In-person
410 State Stree...
Getting help for me started at an early age - seeking help in my mid-teens Little did I know I was beginning my journey to assist others in rescuing themself from life's ticks. As a licensed clinical social worker with 15 years of experience, I want to help change the view, break the stress tension, tame depression, and overthrow anxiety. ​My specialty is stress management, trauma focus therapy, I apply an eclectic mix of solution focus therapy, EMDR, CBT and Trauma focus solutions coupled essential oils. Let's start the journey together.

Elizabeth Lara

Elizabeth Lara, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCSW
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hello there, I'm Liz! I work with clients who are wanting to heal from past trauma experiences and get to the root causes of their struggles. Trauma changes the way you view yourself, others, and the world. It often has lasting impacts that can be manifested in your current struggles with anxiety, depression, true fulfillment in relationships, diminished executive functioning, and difficulty with honoring your needs and boundaries. My goal is to help you gain insight, build self-awareness, and foster personal growth. Some areas of focus I enjoy addressing with my clients include boundary building, negative core beliefs, strengthening internal validation, self-care, identifying trauma responses, addressing attachment wounds, aligning to your values, improving daily functioning, and developing healthy coping strategies. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic models and techniques to help my clients including but not limited to Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Polyvagal Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. For those who desire and request it, I can integrate Christian-based counseling into the therapeutic process. I believe education/knowledge of what you are going through sets the foundation to the therapeutic work you will be doing.

Victoria James

Victoria James, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LCSW
16 years of experience
Virtual
Victoria James is an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Psychotherapist, Anxiety & Mindset Expert, Wellness Entrepreneur and the Founder of Ever Growth Counseling®, LCSW, PLLC. Ever Growth Counseling was created for busy Young Professional’s, Millennials and Entrepreneurs who are struggling with mental health challenges and in need of support across the states of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Florida. Additional services include life coaching, consulting, wellness workshops for businesses, clinical supervision for mental health professionals, business coaching for therapists and wellness professionals who need support with start up or scaling their business. Victoria is a member of the BIPOC community. She is a First generation American born to a multi-racial immigrant family. Victoria can support you around issues related to racial/ethnic identity, challenges of being first generation American or person of color. She has a passion for Mental Health and hopes to destigmatize mental health services in BIPOC communities. Victoria enjoys working with young adults, women in male dominated careers, entrepreneurs, creatives, college students, high achievers, therapists, wellness professionals, lawyers, finance and tech professionals. Her goal is to help people uncover their true potential and lead a fulfilling life. Victoria has over 15 years of experience in the Wellness & Mental Health Field. She completed her Bachelor of Social Work degree at Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus and earned a Masters of Social Work at Stony Brook University. Victoria has worked in a variety of mental health settings including Inpatient Medical Units, ABA Behavioral Therapy programs, Outpatient Mental Health Clinics and Non-Profit Community based programs. She has extensive experience in treating symptom’s related to anxiety, stress, impostor syndrome, depression, burnout, low self-esteem, homelessness, life transitions, child developmental disorders, crisis management, and generational trauma to individuals and families across New York City.

Tameko Penny, LCSW

(she/her)

Tameko Penny, LCSW, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I’m Tameko and it’s so wonderful to meet you. It’s likely that if you’re here reading my page you have found yourself in a situation where you are struggling to experience the life you desire. Well, I can help you with that whether it’s rooted in a lack of motivation to set and follow though with goals, a limited mindset that contributes to feeling stuck, ongoing mental health symptoms that have been difficult to manage, unresolved traumas or adverse life events, or feeling generally disconnected from yourself and the world. Let’s get started addressing and eradicating the barriers to living a more pleasurable, functional, and fulfilling existence.

Janet Guthrie

(she/her)

Janet Guthrie, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
$120/session
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings! Are you feeling overwhelmed by day- to day issues? Are you struggling in your relationships, or having difficulties communicating with others? Do you just need a safe space to vent? These are all normal daily occurrences. This may be where you'll begin in therapy. However, the goal is to increase coping skills and decrease adverse symptoms as time progresses. My goal is to connect with you and truly understand your needs and goals. Expect an environment free of judgment where you can speak freely and show up as your authentic self. My approach is person-centered while utilizing appropriate evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I help support young adults, individuals, and couples that may be dealing with a range of challenges in their lives related to trauma, anxiety, and depression. Let's work together to identify solutions that can improve functioning and increase life satisfaction.

Krista Lawrence

(she/her)

Krista Lawrence, LMFT - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
$175/session
LMFT
11 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both CT and MA. I earned my Master's Degree at Central Connecticut State University and have been in practice for many years. I currently offer online telehealth therapy only. During our work together, we will focus on your strengths as part of the process of healing the pains of the past. I invite you to reach out, we can get started as soon as you are able.

Stacy Ishack

Stacy Ishack, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LPC
3 years of experience
Virtual
I am dedicated to creating a safe and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, understood, and supported. I have experience in providing therapeutic services to individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and stress management. My therapeutic approach integrates elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, psychodynamic therapy, and solution-focused therapy. By utilizing this eclectic approach, I adapts interventions to meet clients in the stage of life they’re in and address their unique concerns effectively.

Dr. Vanessa Laurent

Dr. Vanessa Laurent, LP - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
$220/session
LP
10 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed psychologist with an interest in helping people live the life they want. I will help you gain self-awareness and understanding to help you be better able to manage and control your emotions, and by extension, your life. I have provided therapeutic services for over 10 years. I employ a multimodal approach to therapy, but would primarily characterize me as a cognitive behavioral therapist, with specific training in family intervention, behavioral modification, and trauma-informed care. I have also received training in a variety of other treatment modalities and believe in providing high quality evidence-based treatment. I am a strong believer that our well-being is affected by biological, psychological, and social factors. I utilize a biopsychosocial approach that highlights the interdependent nature of the body, mind, and social factors and how they might be contributing to the development or continuation of our problems. Whether you are dealing with depression, family issues, or anxiety, I can help support you in living the life you want. Starting therapy can be a difficult and courageous decision, you have taken the first steps just by being here. I look forward to working with you!

Melissa Veras Martinez

(she/her)

Melissa Veras Martinez, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
$95/session
LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there and welcome! As we go through different stages and circumstances in our lives, there are moments when we face difficult challenges and just need a safe space to overcome our barriers. Within my five years of experience, I have helped clients and families develop their unique coping skills for symptoms related to anxiety, depression, anger, behavioral dysregulation, trauma, and stress. Additionally, I have worked in various settings including communities, homes, medical offices, and remote video/telehealth. In my role as a bilingual (English & Spanish-speaking) clinical social worker, I utilize several methods of treatment with a sense of empathy and compassion for the young adults (ages 16-25 y/o), adults, and families I serve. These methods of treatment and approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Family Systems Theory, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). I look forward to working with you and/or your family as a team with a focus on healing, skills building, and reaching your goals.

Geanella Lara

(she/her)

Geanella Lara, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
$75/session
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Connecticut. I received my Masters from Southern Connecticut State University and have been in the helping field for over 10 years. My passion is helping adults reach their full potential and live a more fulfilling life. I have worked with people from all walks of life. I currently work in the substance abuse field helping adults work toward recovery goals at an outpatient unit after many years of home-based human service work. I have learned that over the years in the helping field, this work gets more fulfilling as you allow yourself to experience other areas in this field. I take pride in the work I do everyday as i'm able to help people reach their goals and I hope to continue doing this using this online platform.

Michelle Louise Bicking

(she/her)

Michelle Louise Bicking, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LCSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
Thank you so much for allowing you to join this phase of your journey. I am a first-generation Bajan (Barbados)/Vincentian (Saint Vincent and Grenadines) queer clinician of color seeking to be of service. I have over 20 years direct care services, including hospice/end of life care, residential services for teens and young adults, inpatient and outpatient care. I am here to meet you where you are, and show you where and who you can be.

De'Andrea Dillard

(she/her)

De'Andrea Dillard, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LCSW
13 years of experience
Virtual
Have you experienced a traumatic event that impacts the way that you life your life? Have you struggled to cope with challenges associated with domestic violence, sexual assault, or community violence ? Are you recovering from homelessness, substance use, or an illness? Are you a veteran readjusting to civilian life or an active duty military personnel returning home from deployment? Are you looking for someone who will understand your needs? My name is De'Andrea Dillard, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My background includes intimate partner violence, trauma, and a specialization in Alcohol and Substance Use Counseling. As the child of a soldier, I have spent many years traveling and being immersed in diverse cultures and situations. I am an advocate for clients and their needs for themselves and within the community. I meet clients where they are to assist with goal planning and overcoming barriers. I integrate my enthusiasm, dedication, and passion for people into my practice. Asking for help is hard, but you have already taken the first step. Let's work together to establish goals that will help you restore your life to a higher level of functioning.

Keisha Cox

Keisha Cox, LCSW - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy
$125/session
LCSW
22 years of experience
Virtual
I am an LCSW with a private practice in NY and CT. I have earned a BA in Psychology and an MSW in Clinical Social Work, both from New York University. I have over 20 years of experience working with children and adults of all ages with a focus on cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, strength based and mindfulness approaches.

Ryan Roberts

(she/her)

Ryan Roberts, LPC - Connecticut Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$110/session
LPC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! I'm Ryan. Are you feeling the waves of life? Some waves are gentle and predictable, while others seem to come out of nowhere and knock us completely off balance. Fears may arise about your future, or past trauma might bubble to the surface of your awareness. Anxiety and depression can be normal responses to changes in your insight, losses and transitions. Relationships can become challenging to navigate when we are experiencing such waves. I will meet you where you're at to help you achieve a feeling of wellness. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who specializes in counseling children, adolescents and adults, with diverse backgrounds who are experiencing depression, anxiety, parenting issues, Peripartum depression/anxiety and grief and loss. My personal life experiences help me empathize with others who are suffering from mental health issues and I'd love the opportunity to help you heal!

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Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Connecticut rather than a city like Hartford?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across Connecticut from New Haven to Springfield! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Connecticut.

Will my therapist take insurance?

When booking you’ll be asked to verify with your Member ID. However, if you don’t have any of the insurances available you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on a specific issue?

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.

What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?

Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What to expect during your first session?

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.

Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.
POC Therapists