Black / African American Therapists in Minnesota

Life brings seasons of joy, challenge, uncertainty, and growth — and Scripture reminds us that “He has made everything beautiful in its time” (Ecclesiastes 3:11, NKJV). You were never meant to navigate these seasons alone. If you’re seeking a counselor who approaches healing with a pastor’s heart and a Christ‑centered worldview, I’m here to walk alongside you. I believe every person is created by God with purpose, dignity, and a calling that is uniquely theirs. My work is rooted in helping individuals rediscover that purpose and experience the hope, clarity, and restoration that come from aligning their lives with God’s truth. Whether you, your child, your spouse, or a family member is facing anxiety, walking through a difficult transition, or longing for deeper spiritual and personal growth, you will be met with compassion, prayerful support, and practical guidance. At Hope Connection Counseling & Therapy, the heart of this ministry is simple: to help people live with intention and step into the destiny God has prepared for them. This practice was founded out of a God‑given dream — a desire to create a safe, grace‑filled space where individuals can be honest, find healing, and experience the transforming work of Christ in their lives. If this resonates with your spirit, I invite you to reach out. You were created on purpose and for a purpose. Whatever season you’re in, God is still at work, and you don’t have to walk this journey alone. It would be an honor to support you as you pursue the life He has called you to live.

Hi -- my name is Sam, and I became a therapist because I know what it feels like to be stuck. It sucks. I love getting into the nitty gritty details of the mental chaos with my clients and then working on finding practical ways to untangle ourselves other than the classic "think positively" response (disclaimer: yes, it helps, but it's a lot more complicated than that). It's a lot of energy to work towards peace, I know, but I love what I do, and I'm more than willing to help.

I believe therapy should feel calm, respectful, and genuinely supportive. I create a space where people can slow down, speak openly, and feel heard without judgment or pressure. My approach is warm, grounded, and collaborative, allowing clients to explore their experiences at a pace that feels comfortable while still working toward meaningful change. Many people come to therapy carrying stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, or past experiences while continuing to manage daily responsibilities. I enjoy helping people make sense of what they are going through, build insight, and reconnect with their strengths. Conversations are honest and thoughtful, with a focus on understanding the whole person rather than just one concern. My goal is to offer steady guidance while respecting each client’s individuality, goals, and values. Therapy becomes a space to reflect, gain clarity, heal, and begin moving forward with greater confidence and emotional balance.

Olushola Abiodun Lawal, known as Shola, was born and raised in South Florida. He is a Florida State University alumnus, graduating with a Bachelor's and Master's in Social Work in 2013 and 2015, respectively. During his time at FSU, he developed an interest in substance abuse, child welfare, mental health, and life coaching. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida, Shola brings over five years of experience as a Primary Therapist, case manager, and clinical care coordinator, providing insight into various mental health disorders.

I’m Pamela Andrews, LCSW and I help clients who are dealing with trauma, anxiety, and/or OCD so they can feel grounded, confident, and in control of their lives again. My clients are often people who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally exhausted, even when things look “fine” on the outside. Using evidence-based approaches like EMDR and ERP, along with a compassionate, faith-informed lens when desired, I help clients break free from old patterns, calm their nervous systems, and build lives rooted in clarity, peace, and purpose.

I am a licensed clinical social worker in FL, Idaho, Virginia; licensed independent clinical social worker in Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Rhode Island. I graduated from Barry University in 2014 and have been working within the mental health and hospital field since. I enjoy helping others overcome the challenges life throws at them. With the right mindset, support and environment, I believe change is possible. I provide psychotherapy services to individuals in a collaborative, supportive, and safe environment.

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Minnesota and Missouri. I am licensed to diagnose and treat individuals struggling with mental health issues. My philosophy is that we all have the capacity to heal from within however sometimes our feelings and emotions can overwhelm us and make it difficult to find our own healing. I am here to assist clients in reaching their highest good in life.

Healing and restoring individuals and couples as a Therapist and Consultant specializing in Mental Health , conflict resolution and Substance Abuse for 20+ years. I have worked with Adults, Adolescents, Teens and Young Adults extensively. I specialize in CBT Therapy, CBT Trauma Focused Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Domestic Violence and Strengths Based Therapy. For individuals or couple experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, fears or any other Mental Health issues I can assist you with combating these issues that are affecting your daily life using a strengths base approach.

Hello! I am a multicultural clinician with fifteen years of experience, licensed as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). I hold a Master’s degree from the University of St. Thomas in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and a Doctor of Behavioral Health from Arizona State University. My primary focus is on delivering clinical support to adults encountering behavioral health challenges, with the aim of improving their condition management. I am dedicated to integrating diverse cultural perspectives into my practice, respecting each individual's background. I create a safe environment for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. Using evidence-based approaches, I work collaboratively to develop personalized strategies that enhance resilience and well-being. Also, I prioritize ongoing professional development to stay updated on advancements in behavioral health for effective care.

Thank you for taking steps toward improving your well-being! As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in Clinical Child and Family Psychology, Crisis Management, and Christian Counseling, I bring over 20 years of experience helping adults, teens, and families cope with anxiety, depression, caregiver stress, and life transitions such as death, divorce, and job loss. My goal is to foster a brave space where all thoughts and feelings are valued, allowing clients to embrace vulnerability. Together, we will work on creating meaningful personal goals to support your overall well-being. I look forward to supporting you on your healing journey.

Hi, I'm Venus, I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker licensed in the state of Minnesota. I have over 10 years of experience providing psychotherapy for individuals, couples, families, and young adults. I provide a safe space to talk openly about present issues, relational concerns with friends, family, spouse and partners, and can help you identify personal goals to improve your social emotional health and wellness.

Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida. I have several years of experience providing therapy services. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Hello! I am Dr. Iesha McLeod, a licensed psychologist dedicated to providing evidence-based, culturally responsive care to adults navigating challenges related to mood, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. My clinical approach emphasizes collaboration, insight, and the development of practical coping strategies to support growth and well-being. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that fosters safety, self-understanding, and sustainable change.

Hi there, I'm Farah Ali. I am a licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, and dedicated advocate for my clients. My educational foundation is based in psychology and social justice, having earned my master's degree in social work with a dual concentration in community practice and clinical mental health. Driven by a strong commitment to human rights and social justice, I am dedicated to advocating for every individual I work with and the communities I am part of. My Core Principles as a Therapist: Focusing on Strengths & Empowerment: Central to our work is helping you to more deeply connect to—and really use—your inherent strengths. This means looking for growth opportunities where some might find roadblocks and accessing both internal and external resources to help you make the changes you want to see in your life. Working for Comprehensive Wellness: Therapy is a place where we can work toward mental and emotional wellness, learn how to foster positive relationships, and discover a greater sense of balance and ease in your day-to-day life. Promoting Connection & Authenticity: The relationship we have is vital, which is why I work hard to make sure our relationship is a nurturing space for meaningful growth. Creating Safety in Being Seen: I strive to make our sessions a place where every emotion is valued, encouraged, and supported—yes, even the “bad” or “undesirable” emotions. This is the space we cultivate together in our work, and space that is here to help you more deeply see yourself, and be seen in your authenticity.

Feeling a bit stuck in life? Been in therapy before, but not sure how to use your tools? Do you identify as a high achiever or perfectionist who's motivated for change? Then we may be a good fit! As someone who has done therapy before, I understand the first step to transformation is not always easy. Welcome! I'm Janna Fennell, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in MN and VA, based in Minnesota. I received my Bachelor’s in Psychology and English from Dartmouth College and my Master’s in Counseling from Bethel University. I have been practicing therapy for over 10 years. My therapy style is direct, yet compassionate and collaborative. I create a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental space while staying honest and solution-focused. I use a holistic, integrative approach, blending evidence-based talk therapy with mind-body and mindfulness practices. I ask thought-provoking questions, offer feedback, and challenge unhelpful patterns. This has helped teens and adults learn new tools, self-reflect, and dig deep so they can grow and create the changes that they seek. I encourage people to actively participate in therapy and expect effort in making changes to achieve their goals. I use a range of evidence-based therapeutic modalities tailored to your individual needs. Some approaches include CBT, DBT, client-focused, short-term solution-focused, strengths-based, trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and integrative mental health methods (e.g., breathwork, mindfulness, meditation, PMR, body scan). For clients new to therapy, keep in mind it may sometimes require stepping outside of your comfort zone by learning new tools that you may not tried before, hearing a different perspective you may not have considered, and even talking about concerns that may be difficult to process, but it does get easier with time. Remember, I am there every step of the way to help guide and support you!

Marcus Jones is a result driven therapist that assists individuals in managing symptoms of mental illness, maintaining sobriety, resolving motivations for self-defeating thoughts and behaviors, and improving relationships. His experience is inclusive of adolescent and adult populations. Marcus is a Licensed Psychotherapist, Certified Alcohol and drug Counselor, and Certified Anger Management Specialist. He earned his Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Southwest, Masters of Business Administration and Bachelor in Organizational management from Ashford University. Marcus has has worked in the field of Mental health for 20 years. In the last 7 years, he has provided counseling services in individual, families and groups, with experience in a range of settings from community counseling to inpatient treatment settings. He specializes in Addiction, Anger Management and Men issues. He has served as the Director of Inpatient Addiction and Outpatient treatment services at an Atlanta based Mental health hospital, he is the former host of 102.6 the Situations Radio’s Mental Health Monday’s. He has an in-depth understanding of the different levels of mental Healthcare and how they can best serve individuals suffering from Mental Illness.

My first career includes 17 years of retail management. I worked in multiple divisions, environments, and roles within the retail management industry. Most of my experiences were in the Big-Box retail environments or within the corporate office environment, so I understand the expectations and stressors of P&L management, marketing, staff performance/recruitment/training & development, shrinkage, O.S.H.A. compliance, and merchandising. I transitioned from the retail management industry to the human services industry in March of 2010 after receiving my master’s degree in Human Services with a specialty in Mental Health Counseling. This information is pertinent for adults who need assistance to cope with work-life balance, corporate industry standards, stressful work environments, conflict management with co-workers, and work performance due to compassion fatigue or inappropriate time management.

Hi! I'm Veronica, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-C) with over 11 years of experience providing therapy. Many of us yearn for a sense of peace, connection, and well-being in our lives. However, life circumstances and internal struggles can often hinder our ability to experience these deeply fulfilling states. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your challenges and emotional pain. My goal is to support your growth and healing journey, empowering you to cultivate greater self-awareness, develop effective coping mechanisms, and live a more fulfilling life. Outside of my practice, I enjoy spending time with my family (two teenagers and three dogs), practicing Pilates, and cheering on the Celtics. I am licensed in Maryland, DC, Virginia, Minnesota and Ohio.

I am Dr. Ann Dillard, a licensed marriage and family therapist. I am a relational and trauma-informed therapist specializing in mother–daughter relationships, attachment repair, and culturally grounded healing. My work centers on helping high-functioning women and adult daughters who feel successful on the outside but are internally burdened by anxiety, unresolved trauma, complex family dynamics, or betrayal wounds. Many of the women I serve have carried responsibility for years, often as the strong one, the peacemaker, or the overachiever. They may struggle with boundaries, emotional safety, or patterns that seem to repeat across generations. Together, we gently untangle those inherited narratives and relational patterns so you can understand not only what happened to you but also how they continue to live in your body and relationships today. My approach goes beyond traditional talk therapy. I integrate brain–body modalities such as Brainspotting, somatic therapies, attachment-based work, and parts-informed approaches to access healing at both the cognitive and subcortical levels. This allows us to work directly with the nervous system, where trauma, attachment injuries, and relational imprints are often stored. As a therapist and researcher, my doctoral work focused on culturally nuanced mother–daughter dynamics, particularly within Caribbean-American and cross-cultural contexts. I understand how culture, migration, faith, and generational expectations shape identity, attachment, and emotional expression. I provide a space where those complexities are honored rather than pathologized. My goal is for more than symptom reduction. It is a transformation. I help women move from survival patterns to relational clarity, from emotional reactivity to embodied stability, and from inherited scripts to authentic self-expression. Healing in my practice is intentional, grounded, and sustainable.