Working with a Black Therapist in Houston
At Grief Recovery Center, we understand the unique barriers Black individuals often face when seeking mental health support, from the lack of therapist diversity to concerns about being fully understood. Representation matters, especially in therapy. That’s why we’re committed to offering compassionate, culturally competent care from therapists who share and respect your lived experience.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 19.7% of Black and African American adults have experienced a mental health condition in the past year. Yet too many still struggle to find care that feels safe, validating, and tailored to their needs.
Our mission is to bridge that gap by improving access to Black therapists in Houston and creating a welcoming, inclusive, and non-judgmental space. Whether you’re navigating grief, trauma, anxiety, or life transitions, our team is here to support your healing, growth, and empowerment.
Why Culturally Responsive Therapy Matters
Working with a Black therapist can offer numerous advantages, particularly in a diverse city like Houston. A shared cultural background and lived experiences often create an instant connection and understanding between therapist and client.
Black therapists are deeply familiar with racial challenges and systemic inequalities, allowing clients to feel seen, heard, and validated, without the added burden of having to explain their cultural context. They bring a unique lens to addressing mental health within the Black community, tailoring care with cultural, historical, and sociopolitical awareness.
This connection fosters greater trust, emotional safety, and openness in therapy. It invites honest dialogue, encourages vulnerability, and supports deep healing through culturally attuned communication and compassion
The Benefits of Working With a Black Therapist
Choosing a Black counselor can create a deeper sense of trust and understanding, especially when navigating grief, trauma, or racial identity. Our therapists provide a safe, affirming space where your experiences are seen, heard, and respected.
- Shared cultural understanding that fosters quicker connection and mutual respect
- Reduced need for code-switching or having to explain racialized experiences
- Greater trust, comfort, and emotional safety in the therapeutic relationship
- Specialized insight into grief, trauma, and race-related stressors
- Culturally affirming care that validates identity and lived experiences
Meet Our Black Therapists in Houston
Courtney Cardenas
Hello there! I am Courtney Cardenas, a Licensed Professional Counselor providing exceptional psychotherapy and counseling services to teens (15) through senior adults (60). I have experience with grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, self-esteem, family issues, and marriage problems.
I enjoy working with clients to help them identify and overcome personal obstacles that may hinder their progress, such as issues that interrupt their lives. For more information about Courtney, please visit her bio.
Kaneisha Perry
Hi, my name is Kaneisha Perry, a highly skilled and compassionate mental health therapist dedicated to fostering a supportive and collaborative therapeutic environment that promotes healing and growth. With a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), my extensive experience and commitment to ongoing professional development enable me to tailor therapeutic interventions to meet individual needs. For more information about Kaneisha, please visit her bio.
Monique Harvey
Hello, I’m Monique Harvey, a Licensed Professional Counselor with six years of experience. I began my career working in mental health hospitals and now work in private practice. My mission is to equip and empower my clients with effective coping strategies, decision-making skills, and the tools needed to facilitate healthy behavior changes. For more information about Monique, please visit her bio.
Melissa Gates
For the past ten years, I have walked alongside individuals navigating some of life’s most difficult moments: whether it’s grief, anxiety/ depression, trauma, or mania. For more information about Melissa, please visit her bio.
Our Specialties and Areas of Expertise
Our therapists approach individual experiences with sensitivity, empathy, and a keen awareness of racial dynamics. Their areas of expertise include:
- Grief, loss, and heartache.
- Stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Anger management.
- Relationship dynamics and conflicts.
- Trauma and abuse, including racial trauma and discrimination.
- Bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
- Motivation and constant distractions.
- Dwindling hope, self-esteem, and confidence.
- Uncertainty and navigating life’s transitions.
- Imposter syndrome.
We also recognize that challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief, discrimination, and racial trauma can be more prevalent in the Black community. This is why we offer tailored and culturally competent support based on each individual’s background.
Why Choose a Black Therapist in Houston from Grief Recovery Center
Our African-American therapists in Houston offer care that’s not only clinically sound but also culturally affirming and rooted in empathy.
Here’s what you can expect when you begin your journey with us:
- Flexible Session Structure: We offer both in-person and virtual therapy options to fit your schedule and comfort level. Whether you prefer the privacy of your home or the connection of face-to-face sessions, we meet you where you are.
- What to Expect in Your First Session: The first session is designed to help you understand your goals, concerns, and medical history. It’s a safe space to share what’s bringing you in, ask questions, and begin building a relationship with your therapist—no pressure, no judgment.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Therapy is not one-size-fits-all. Together, we’ll create a tailored plan based on your specific needs and goals. The length and structure of therapy will depend on your situation and preferences.
- Commitment to Confidentiality: Your privacy matters. We maintain strict confidentiality and uphold ethical standards to ensure your experience is safe, respectful, and client-centered.
- Culturally Affirming and Trauma-Informed
Our team brings a deep understanding of the cultural, historical, and social contexts that shape mental health. - Convenient Appointments Across Houston
With flexible scheduling and accessible locations, getting the care you need has never been easier. Our virtual therapy services are also available to residents across Texas.
Black Therapist FAQ’s for Houston
Can therapy help with racial trauma and discrimination?
Yes, therapy can be a powerful tool for healing racial trauma. Our counselors in Houston understand the impact of generational wounds, systemic oppression, and daily microaggressions. In a safe, affirming space, we help you unpack these experiences, process emotions, and build resilience through culturally grounded approaches.
Are your therapists licensed and accepting new clients?
Absolutely. All of our therapists are fully licensed professionals with extensive training in grief, trauma, anxiety, and more. Many are currently accepting new clients for both in-person and virtual sessions. We work to match you with the right therapist based on your specific needs and preferences.
How can culturally responsive therapy help me?
Culturally responsive therapy acknowledges your identity, values, and lived experiences as integral to the healing process. It helps you feel seen and understood, not explained. Working with a therapist who shares or respects your cultural background can enhance trust, deepen connection, and support more meaningful progress.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
We offer flexible scheduling and strive to get you in quickly, often within a few days. With multiple therapists and virtual options available, you won’t need to wait weeks to get the support you need.
Take the First Step Toward Healing
You don’t have to navigate this alone. At Grief Recovery Center in Houston, TX, we offer both in-person sessions at 2000 North Loop West, Suite 100, and convenient virtual therapy for those who prefer to connect from home. Whether you choose video or phone sessions, our licensed therapists are here to meet you where you are—literally and emotionally.
Please note that we are in-network with Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Cigna, Magellan, and United Healthcare/Optum. Clients are welcome to use their out-of-network benefits. Benefits will need to be verified before the initial appointment.
Schedule your first session with a compassionate Black therapist in Houston today.
Contact Us
Contact us to schedule an appointment or call (832) 413-2410. Our friendly team is ready to answer any questions. If you’re ready to take the next step, click the button below to request an appointment. We look forward to supporting you on your path to wellness.
