Minds Over Melanin was born out of a desire to provide a virtual safe space to elevate the culture-specific mental health needs of Black and Brown people and marginalized communities. One of the ways we do that is by providing resources that remove the stigma of therapy. We also do this by breaking down the barriers that may prevent individuals in our communities from accessing therapy. Finding a therapist can be tough but when you find one that you click with, it can help you considerably as you navigate your life.
One of the first questions you may ask yourself when you decide to go to therapy is how to find a therapist. There are several online directories (and some resources we’ve listed below) that can help you find a therapist. Though it is important to know where to locate a therapist, understanding what makes a therapist right for you can save time in the long run.
Determine Your Goals For Therapy
When you decide to go to therapy, one of the first questions they will ask you is “why did you want to try therapy?” and/or “what are your goals?” Before you begin, it’s good to know what you are going for. If you are having trouble determining the reason but know you want to go to therapy, think about the symptoms, situation, or overarching goal you want to meet.
In regards to symptoms, are you experiencing anger, frustration, stress, sadness, or any other emotions you’re having an issue working through? When it comes to situations, are there workplace-related issues, relationships, or life stresses you are seeking therapy for?
Determining your goals can help you decide if you want a specific therapist. Mental health professionals have different specializations and some areas of expertise. If you decide a specialized person will be best for you, you can determine that as you assess your goals.
What Do You Want in a Therapist?
As a Black person or person of color, having a therapist that understands your context can be crucial in being comfortable with sharing how you feel. You want to feel a sense of safety with your therapist and if they are able to understand or relate to the different cultural factors that have affected you can help make you feel seen. Give yourself some time to ask yourself what is important to you in this area. This can even include whether they are male/female, someone close in age, or older. These are all things that may seem small but they can help you become more comfortable with the person you are seeking help from.
Our blog on finding a culturally competent therapist can help you figure out how to determine this. In this blog, we explain what cultural competence is, why it’s important, and give you seven questions you can ask a therapist to determine their cultural competence.
Consider the Cost and Location
Payment options and whether or not your insurance is accepted are important considerations when you are looking for a provider. Therapy can be expensive and it is a significant factor in Black and people of color not partaking in therapy. With different payment options, there are ways to still invest in yourself without breaking the bank.
As a result of the pandemic, access to therapy was increased. Now, it is easier to find a provider that can meet your needs in an environment where you’re comfortable. When thinking about finding a therapist, consider how you would like to communicate with them. Many providers offer virtual, text, call, or in-person visits.
Resources to Find a Therapist
Here are some different resources to use when looking for a therapist:
- The Yellow Couch Collective
- Therapy for Black Girls
- Therapy for Black Men
- Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective (BEAM)
- Black Mental Health Alliance
- Ayana
When you have found a therapist you like, check out the how-to interview your (potential) therapist blog for more information. Remember, it is okay if you don’t like the first one you go to. Don’t let discouragement get in the way of getting the help you desire. Trial and error are normal when it comes to finding a therapist and with perseverance, you will find the right fit for you.