Book 100+ of the best Black / African American therapists in Illinois

I’m Timberly. Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from who you want to be? I specialize in helping individuals navigate trauma, anxiety, self-esteem challenges, and major life transitions with compassion, clarity, and intention. As a trauma-informed, integrative therapist, I guide you in understanding your story, reconnecting with your inner strengths, and creating meaningful change at a pace that honors your readiness. I draw from narrative therapy, mindfulness, psychoeducation, and solution-focused techniques to help you make sense of your experiences and move forward with confidence. Whether you're struggling with self-doubt, emotional regulation, or feeling like you’re simply surviving rather than thriving, I’m here to support you with grounded insight, gentle challenge, and practical tools. Think of me as a collaborator, someone who walks beside you as you rewrite your internal narrative, heal old wounds, and step into a more empowered, intentional version of yourself. Together, we’ll work to move you from uncertainty to self-trust and from emotional exhaustion to a life that feels aligned, whole, and purposeful.

As a licensed clinical social worker and certified yoga teacher, I use a multifaceted trauma-informed approach. I take into account your unique identity, lived experiences, and goals to best meet your needs. This can include mindfulness, mind-body exercises, challenging and reframing negative core beliefs, and helping you understand your motivations. Additionally, as an EMDR-informed therapist, I support clients in reprocessing difficult, traumatic experiences and emotions following the EMDR protocol.

I'm Daph, a bilingual psychotherapist (I speak English and Spanish) who was born and raised in Chicago. I work with adults ages 25 and up. I incorporate CBT (cognitive based therapy) into my sessions as I help clients to process and reflect upon their life journey. My goal is always to provide each client with coping mechanisms to navigate life's challenges.

I have a dedicated 24 years of social services experience, with 14 years of outpatient clinical experience. I started my career as a mentor for youth, in local non-for-profit programs. I then advanced to other comprehensive roles, with interchangeable titles, that ultimately focused on youth development and mentorship. I received my BA in Psychology at Purdue University & MA at the University of Chicago, School of Social Administration. Immediately, upon the end of graduate school, I began my experience with outpatient mental health therapy. Since, I have fulfilled a spectrum of diversified clinical roles, that include home-based, outpatient, inpatient, and telehealth therapy for vast developmental range- from early childhood to late adulthood. This includes specialty treatment with various therapy modalities, such as CBT, ACT, DBT, PST.

In my 14 years providing clinical therapy I have worked with various individuals experiencing difference life challenges. My "ideal" client is one that is looking for guidance and support to resolve mental health issues, life stressors, transitional issues, and/or identity issues. The goal is to create a connection and from that connection build a bridge to healing and recovery. Social justice drives the work that I do personally and professionally. I specialize in the following: -Anxiety -Depression -Bipolar -Schizophrenia -Personality Disorders -Trauma -LGTBQ -Women’s Issues -Oppression based trauma -Life -Racial Identity Challenges. Therapy is not about weakness, it’s about strength. The courage to face the pain, accept it, and continue on despite it. We are on a journey together, one that includes tears and laughter. Authenticity in terms of my own experience and journey, along with the use of humor, allows me to create warm, safe space in order to develop a strong therapeutic bond.

Hello and welcome to my practice! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Illinois with over 15 years of experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges and transitions. I earned my Master's in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and have had the privilege of working with diverse populations--including older adults, veterans, and young adults. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and tailored to support personal growth, resilience, and meaningful change. Whether you're facing a period of transition or seeking deeper self understanding, I'm here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Antonio J. Wheeler Jr., Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor, is a humble servant facilitating the space for change and resilience. Mr. Wheeler's focus is to understand what has happened to you and empower individuals to reach self-actualization and sustain being anchored in wellness. Antonio J. Wheeler Jr. started his professional career over a decade ago in 2009 in the Mental Health field as a substance abuse counselor. He is committed to providing the highest quality of resilience-focused behavioral-based therapeutic outpatient services. His purpose is to facilitate the space for change.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counsellor (LCPC) based in Illinois. I received my master's from Chicago State University and have been practicing for 6 years. I help clients struggling with depression, anxiety, attachment and abandonment issues, and low self-esteem to learn adaptive coping mechanism to function day-to-day, learn to create secure attachments, and become the best versions of themselves.

Hello, I am Trina Hill LCSW, Certified Addictions Counselor (CADC). I am dedicated and compassionate. I am committed to empowering clients to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. My therapeutic style is client-centered, meaning I prioritize the client's autonomy, preferences, and goals throughout the therapeutic process. My therapeutic style is client-centered, meaning I prioritize the client's autonomy, preferences, and goals throughout the therapeutic process.

Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC/LMHCA) based in the states of Illinois and Indiana. I received my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grace College and Theological Seminary in Winona Lake, Indiana. I have experience and practice for approximately 7 years. I enjoy helping others discover they can learn to live on the other side of their hurt and pain. I respect clients' autonomy and have a compassionate ear as I work to help you become successful in your future endeavors and management of your own life.

Are you feeling overwhelmed, have relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Hello, my name is Renee and I am a dedicated and compassionate psychotherapist who focuses on anxiety, depression, communication, and self-confidence issues. Seeking therapy can feel scary but I would like to reassure you you're making the right decision. You deserve a space where you feel safe to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. With experience in the field, I have had the privilege of helping numerous individuals navigate through their emotional struggles and achieve emotional well-being. My approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a genuine desire to see my clients flourish. Let's work together! I strongly believe in the transformative power of therapy and am committed to helping you find the inner strength and resilience necessary to overcome your challenges. Together, we will embark on a journey towards personal growth and emotional well-being. Remember, seeking help is a courageous step, and I am here to support you every step of the way.

Hi there! My name is Stacey Jones and I am a licensed clinical therapist based in Illinois. I am licensed in both Illinois (LCPC) and Indiana (LMHC). I graduated with my Masters Degree from Saint Xavier University in Chicago in 2014. I have been practicing in the mental health field for over a decade with experience working in community mental health, private practice and education based settings. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment that allow my clients to feel comfortable beginning their healing process. My treatment approach is a collaborative one that focuses on clients’ strengths and goals. My goal is for clients to leave therapy feeling empowered with the insight and tools they need to allow them to thrive in life. I help adults of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression and trauma to make positive and meaningful changes in their lives.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker conducting sessions virtually in New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Pennsylvania and Nevada. I specialize in people that are going through tough times and need coping skills to manage. Life might have thrown you curve balls, and you might not be accepting of the uncertainty and the change. I'll be here to tell you that bad situations can be temporary and life changes can also be great. I specialize in helping people who fall down but get back up. I'll help you to talk about your feelings and help you to make treatment goals that you have been wanting to reach.

Seasoned, compassionate, and dedicated professional equipped with broad based experience in counseling, case management, and psychotherapy. Offer exemplary case management skills along with expertise in diagnosis and treatment of emotional disturbances and mental health disorders. Demonstrate effectiveness in working with multidisciplinary teams and other health professionals, including social workers, psychologists, therapists, and student interns. Possess articulate communication skills in English. It is my experience that my clients know themselves better than anyone. They are their own (and my) best resource when it comes to treatment. I see therapy as a joint venture where our knowledge and skills are combined to create solutions. A good therapeutic relationship includes trust, authenticity, freedom and positive outcomes.

I am a Doctor of Psychology, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Illinois. I am the author of the best-selling self-help book How to Be a Mental Health Savage. I am an avid mental health advocate who aims to reduce mental health stigma globally. I focus on a holistic approach to mental health improvement through intellectual stimulation, relationship restructuring, diet restructuring, and exercise. My extensive experience includes working with acute trauma care and counseling co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse). I also provide custody evaluations, FOID appeal evaluations, and juvenile forensic evaluations.

Hi, I’m Lucretia! I’m a therapist in Illinois, and I work exclusively via telehealth. I’m here to create a space where you feel seen, heard, and respected—just as you are. My practice is rooted in a firm belief that everyone is worthy of love, respect, and understanding. I value authenticity, empathy, and self-awareness, both for myself and my clients, and I consider these qualities essential for meaningful therapy. I also believe in the power of laughter to ease even the heaviest conversations. Humor can open doors to deeper insight, so I use it thoughtfully and often! In our sessions, I aim to normalize and validate your experiences, no matter where you’re coming from, without judgment. My goal is to help you tap into your unique strengths and work through whatever might be holding you back. Therapy is a powerful tool, and I’ve witnessed its transformative impact on my clients’ lives, as well as in my own. I’ve leaned on therapy through my nearly 10 years in the field and through personal challenges, including loss and the experience of caretaking for a terminal illness. If you’re navigating anxiety, depression, or trauma-related struggles, I’d love the chance to work with you. I’m passionate about supporting women ages 20+ who are finding their footing in the world, going through life transitions (divorce, career changes, becoming a parent, etc.), though I work with people of all ages and backgrounds. Many of my clients struggle with relationship problems, histories of childhood traumatic experiences, abuse, or self-worth issues. I’m here to meet you wherever you’re at. My aim is to help you create a present that feels free from the shadows of past experiences, with a future that’s built on self-acceptance, resilience, and, of course, a little bit of laughter.

When life be Life'n and you feel that you are in a choke hold, this is when support is most needed. I am Dr. Chaney, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LCPC) based in Chicago. I received my doctoral degree from Governors State University in Counseling Education and Supervision and my Masters and Undergrad from Chicago State University. I have been practicing for over 10 years. I specialize in helping adults struggling with anxiety, grief, self-doubt, bipolar and ADHD.

Hi, I’m Marianne Ogbonnaya. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois. I have been practicing for over 4 years. I specialize in self-esteem issues and will work with you to increase your confidence and sense of well-being. I work with a variety of individuals and provide culturally affirming counselling to BIPOC, with a focus on first-generation and immigrants

Hey, I'm Siedah. I'm happy you're here! Starting therapy can be a bit challenging. And finding the right therapist can be a bit tricky... but if you're reading this, you're off to a good start-keep going. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Illinois. I have over nine years of experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. I see clients both virtually and in-person.

Hello and welcome! My name is Carlton Hemphill, a 33-year-old Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois who is also board certified (NCC). I received my Masters from Roosevelt University in Clinical Psychology-Counseling Practice with a concentration on child and families. I have been working in the field since 2015, and practicing as an independent clinician in my own private practice since June 2023

Hello! I'm LaQuita, a licensed psychotherapist and Certified Life Coach with a background in corporate, medical, and healthtech environments. I help people improve their mental health and emotional well-being, navigate challenges, and foster personal and professional growth through psychotherapy, coaching, and consulting. I received my Masters of Science in Social Work from the Columbia University School of Social Work and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Northeastern University.

Do you feel overworked in your job or overwhelmed by work/school responsibilities? Do you feel lost in your relationships or stuck in a rut? If you are ready to make changes in your life circumstances or mental health, but don’t know how, I am here to help. I am passionate about guiding overwhelmed and overworked clients to a place of self-care and self-compassion. I give clients tools to take charge of their lives and internal experiences. I help them identify strengths that can empower them to make needed changes, and I give clients communication strategies to set healthy boundaries.

Are you struggling with feelings of constant worry, unease, or dread? Do racing thoughts and overwhelming fear make it difficult for you to enjoy life or perform daily tasks? Anxiety can be a daunting and isolating experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. I specialize in treating anxiety through a thorough and compassionate approach. My process begins with a careful assessment of your symptoms, as every individual’s experience with anxiety is unique. I utilize evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(TF-CBT) to help you reduce symptoms.

Hi I am an LCPC, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have been working with clients for almost 7 years. In a nutshell I help clients to better understand themselves, their histories, and why they do what they do. I help people figure out what they want, and find more effective ways to get what they deserve out of life particularly in the areas of relationship.

Hello. I'm a licensed clinical social worker based in Illinois. I received my master's degree in social work from Southern Illinois University in 2011 and have been providing therapy for 10 years. My specialty is working with all age groups and assisting them with coping with the emotions in a positive/healthy manner. I assist people identify life changing events from their past has affected them present day and will work on a foundation of coping skills.

In my experience as a counselor, I have had the privilege of working with a wide range of individuals in various settings. I have worked with children and adults in the community, residential, hospital, and educational settings. In each environment I have witnessed the marvel of human potential firsthand. As a clinician I approach people and the work that I do from the belief that people have the innate ability to grow and heal on their own. My personal life experience and my practice have fostered this belief, recognizing that the process may require or be made more manageable with some assistance or a guide, in the form of counseling. Through my experiences I have witnessed the benefits of the human components that aid in the healing process of psychological symptoms that create difficulty in moving toward fulfillment and full integration of the human experience in the lives of many. The therapeutic relationship, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard are components that for me represent the core of therapy. These components create an experience in which someone can safely explore themselves, their experiences, the world around them, and identify solutions to ailments and the "true self" that is often altered by the world around us.

My name is Dr. Olushola Bakare, and I'm a board-certified Psychotherapist. I attended St Joseph College. I'm happy to help you today with any of your concerns. I enjoy empowering people and digging out their strengths. I don't ask fish to fly, neither do I ask birds to swim. I respect everyone's strengths and help my client recognize them. I love to highlight my client's strengths. I offer a safe, warm, therapeutic, judgment-free space for Adults (18+) and Older Adults (65+). I am sorry, but I do not accept clients who pay in cash. Also, every late cancellation or no-show accrues a late charge fee. It is my ethical duty to officially terminate our therapeutic relationship when it is reasonably clear that the client is no longer beneficent, services are no longer required, counseling no longer serves the client's needs and interests, or Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT limits do not allow the provision of further counseling services. It is the policy of Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT, that our professional relationship will be terminated after a one-month consistent lapse of meeting with a client. Dr. Olushola Bakare, LMFT, will attempt to notify you of this change in status as soon as possible after one month. My ethical duty is identifying, being available, and caring for current clients. It could feel awkward for our relationship to end, yet it is not meant to be discourteous in any way. I do not complete disability forms (Social Security, work excuse, FMLA, Court papers/legal papers, emotional support letters, etc). NO COUPLE THERAPY OR MEDICATION MANAGEMENT, PLEASE!

My name is Rene Stockton (pronounced Reni). I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Illinois. I serve my community as a counselor, therapist and change agent. I have had the privilege to work with individuals and families from primarily underserved populations and communities over the course of a 30 year social work practice in two great American cities. I have encountered child, adolescent and adult challenges ranging from trauma to writer’s block and wellness. I will partner with you to create the soft and more concrete changes you are looking to achieve in your life. My style is open, supportive and person centered, we will choose the approach for your situation using a variety of theories and concepts including art, movement, and EMDR.

Practiced behaviors often evolve into generational patterns. Unfortunately, cycles of trauma that are normalized within families can begin to feel inescapable. Like an invisible illness, we sense something is wrong—we feel it in our bodies, see it in our behaviors—yet we struggle to name it, trace its origins, or know how to heal. In these patterns, we may even learn to equate abuse with love, clinging to those who hurt us because it's what we've known. Growing up in unhealthy environments alters how we see the world. Over time, we adopt coping strategies, protective habits, and emotional defenses to shield ourselves from re-experiencing deep mental and emotional pain. But these very mechanisms, while once useful, eventually shape how we relate to others—repeating the very harm we hoped to escape. I’m Loryn Chás (Chase), a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor dedicated to helping individuals break through the barriers of generational trauma and self-doubt. I specialize in supporting clients as they dismantle unhealthy cycles and reclaim their lives through a holistic, empowering approach. My work centers on helping people recognize their innate strength and actualize their greatness—regardless of the setbacks they’ve faced. Through our counseling work together, clients often experience a profound sense of liberation from mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual pain. They leave with renewed energy, deeper self-awareness, and a fresh perspective on their relationships, purpose, and potential.

Are you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? I’m here to help you navigate stress, conflict, anxiety, and depression. Whether you're an individual, couple, or family, I’ll provide the tools and strategies to improve your well-being, regain control, and move forward with confidence. Together, we'll develop a winning game plan to strengthen your sense of purpose—shifting from struggling day-to-day to truly thriving.

Hi I am Pat Windsor a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been providing therapy for over 20 years to countless individuals and couples. I pride myself in providing a calming and serene environment. Clients and friends tell me I have "a therapist voice". I love to see my clients grow and become the person/people they want to be. My goal is to contribute a more personal touch of care to you. I love working with essential oils and working with clients with anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, trauma, parenting and relationship concerns. Let go of stress, impatience and anxiety and bring peace and success to your life.

As cliche as it sounds, therapy is a journey. I'm someone who sits in the passenger seat while your in the driver's seat of(whatever that may be) so that, I can point out the things that you may miss along the way because you're busy handling the vehicle (again, whatever that happens to be. Take control of this analogy.) Let's figure out where you want to go and how you want to get there.

We all have dealt with varying levels of stress and anxiety before. It becomes an ongoing issue when we don’t address the thoughts and feelings that arise as physical symptoms slowly begin to take over. My role in this process is to assist in delving into where these thoughts began and how to move forward in future situations. Need to talk about trauma or issues with depression? Having problems in your social relationships that you’re struggling with? Feel like you’re drowning because of all the recent changes in your life? Let’s tackle this together and discover ways to overcome negative associations from the past. I help adults struggling with symptoms of anxiety, dealing with different life transitions and managing self esteem issues. I also assist with depressive symptoms, have a trauma focused background and am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I primarily use the tools of compassion, psychoeducation, mindfulness, and problem solving to offer new perspectives in dealing with instances of intergenerational trauma. In many cases, certain aspects unknowingly get repeated between parents and their children. This can be addressed through discussing your own understanding as well as opting to make changes for your future. Aside from family trauma repetitions, dealing with all the recent changes in the world can also be a source of stress and anxiety. When we meet, we’ll dive into all these stressors and establish a plan for self-care that will assist in turning all these negative thoughts and feelings into a pure sense of optimism.

Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? I help high performing men and women manage anxiety and avoid burnout. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back into balance. We'll use a holistic self approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness, yoga and art to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you're dealing with feeling overwhelmed, relationship issues or cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help. Seeking therapy can feel scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits holding you back. Let's embark on this journey together as we empower you in making powerful changes in your life.

Cecily is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and is National Board Certified. She earned a master’s degree in counseling from Chicago State University and has worked with a variety of clients to include children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Cecily uses a variety of approaches to address client’s unique needs. Her work focuses on making mental health more relevant and accessible for Black women and she uses Biblical Counseling. So often the stigma surrounding mental health issues and therapy prevents Black women from taking the step of seeing a therapist. I provide a safe space for clients to be themselves without judgement while on their healing journey. I am a strong believer in meeting people where they are. READY TO TALK? I would love to connect with you.

Toyin is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 20 years in the field of counseling. Toyin journeys with clients using a coaching style, psychodynamic approach, person-centered care, mindfulness-based practices, and integrative models including trauma-conscious yoga. Toyin utilizes Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for the treatment of trauma, anxiety and depression. She also specializes in Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure.

With over nine years of dedicated experience, I’ve had the privilege of supporting adults, children, and adolescents as they navigate trauma, anxiety, and depression. I’m here for those who feel overwhelmed by overthinking or find themselves constantly striving for more, often to the point of exhaustion. Whether you're facing childhood trauma that’s resurfacing in adulthood or you're simply seeking personal growth, I focus on using your strengths to help you move forward. I have holistic approach to therapy that values each individual's unique experiences and strengths. I am licensed in IL & FL. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions and experiences. Through active listening, empathy and evidence-based techniques, I assist you in gaining insight, coping skills and resilience. Together, we navigate challenges, identify patterns and foster growth, empowering you to live a more fulfilling life. Build Healthier Relationships: Whether it’s personal relationships or your relationship with yourself, we’ll focus on improving communication, boundaries and emotional connection. Overcome Anxiety & Depression: We’ll develop personalized coping strategies to reduce overwhelming anxiety, address depressive symptoms and help you regain a sense of control over your emotions. Heal from Trauma: If past trauma is affecting your present, we’ll work through it together, allowing you to reclaim your life with greater resilience and emotional freedom. Develop Self-Confidence: Therapy will help you overcome low self-esteem, empowering you to trust yourself and build a more positive self-image. Enhance Personal Growth: We’ll explore your goals, values, and strengths, focusing on personal development that aligns with the life you want to create. Break Negative Cycles: Together, we’ll identify and shift the patterns of overthinking, procrastination, or self-doubt that are holding you back. Through therapy, you can expect to gain new perspectives, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of yourself, ultimately helping you achieve a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Hi there, I'm Pamelia. Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, and/or sad? Feeling as if you are unable to make it through the day, that there are not enough hours in the day? Are you struggling to maintain a good work/life/family balance? I help my clients to better manage anxiety and depression. Together, we can identify what's not working and get you back to balance. We'll use a whole body approach, addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. I also integrate mindfulness and meditation to help you get in touch with yourself, often becoming an improved version of your former self. Whether you're dealing with an unhealthy work/life/family balance or dealing with chronic anxiety and/or depression, I'm here to help. It takes a lot of courage and strength to reach out for help, but you're making the right choice. You deserve a safe space where you can be heard. In our sessions together, I'll provide support, active listening, and evidence-based techniques so you can feel better. My hope is that I get the chance, the opportunity to work with you on your healing journey!