by Ashley Sowers
Yes you… but in reality, everyone could benefit from therapy. Whether you’ve been considering it for a while now or you feel like you’re doing just fine without it, you’re actually in the perfect place to get started! No matter what end of the mental health spectrum you are currently on, having a therapist in your life’s toolbox is invaluable.
According to the American Psychiatric Association, only 1 in 3 African Americans receives the mental health care that they need. There are a number of barriers leading to this statistic, including stigma, socioeconomic disparities, provider bias, and inequality of care, but if you find yourself willing and able—it might be time to bite the bullet.
Whether or not you are suffering from mental illness, we all have past traumas that impact our choices. Therapy will help you unpack your experiences and improve the way you approach life. Speaking with a licensed professional will healthily take you out of your comfort zone to make positive changes. With the right therapist, you will inevitably learn how to cope with the things you cannot control and genuinely become more in tune with yourself.
Contrary to what you may think, going to therapy does not automatically mean you are struggling with something. For you, therapy may be for general life maintenance. See your therapist as an accountability partner. A person dedicated to regularly helping you achieve your emotional and personal goals.
Finding the Right Therapist
Finding the right therapist is like dating. Beware, you might have to kiss a few toads before finding your perfect match but stay the course. The energy you put into finding the right support will definitely be worth it in the end. There are some important things to consider initially. For example, do the gender and/or race of your provider matter to you? If so, you are not alone and research supports your concern. A 2018 Stanford study found that health outcomes for Black patients are better when treated by a Black physician (attributed to better communication).
Ultimately, you have to determine what matters to you. It’s more than okay to be selective and the resources you need to find your therapist are within your reach:
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Ask a friend! More likely than not, you know someone in therapy. Not only will you get the real on a potential provider; it’s also great to have someone to talk to about your therapy journey.
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If you’re uncomfortable with surveying your circle for recommendations, there are a number of great online directories featuring Black therapists. A favorite of mine is Therapy for Black Girls, but a quick Google search will certainly reveal others.
Remember to trust the process—do not give up if your first therapist is a toad!
What to expect
During your first visit, expect to be asked probing, but necessary, questions about your life from childhood to the present. This allows your therapist to understand who you are and why you have sought out services. Do not be discouraged by this visit. Subsequent sessions will probably be more in line with your current perception of therapy. A good therapist will develop a structured treatment plan based on your individual needs and goals. You will be provided with practical tools to cope with everyday issues, whether you are dealing with mental illness or the general stress that life brings as a Black woman in America.
Take the leap!