Embracing Therapy: A Pathway to Healing

Let’s be real—therapy wasn’t built with us in mind. Many of us were raised with the notion to tough it out, pray, and keep pushing forward. The medical system has not always earned our trust. Therefore, it’s no surprise that we often look skeptically at anything tied to mental health.

But healing belongs to us as well. Therapy isn’t about being “crazy” or weak. It’s a space where you can unload some of the emotional weight you’ve carried for too long. The right therapist truly sees you and is willing to listen. No code-switching is required.

Understanding Mental Health and Mental Wellness

Defining Mental Health

Mental health is the foundation of our emotional and psychological well-being. It is always there, whether we acknowledge it or not. It encompasses how we think, feel, and act. It also influences how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.

What is Mental Wellness?

Mental wellness, on the other hand, refers to the active work we do to protect and enhance our mental health. This involves setting boundaries, prioritizing rest without guilt, and talking through our feelings instead of bottling them up. Importantly, it also means making room for joy, even when life feels heavy.

Release the heavy pressures around you.

Examining Therapy & the Black Experience

Our relationship with therapy is often complicated. The pain in our community has frequently been ignored or mislabeled. In some instances, it has even been criminalized. However, healing spaces can certainly be for us too.

Fortunately, there are now more Black therapists than ever. Many allies stand ready to provide care and respect in these healing spaces. Therapy isn’t about fixing you—because you’re not broken. Instead, it’s an additional tool to help you thrive and flourish.

How to Find a Therapist

Starting your therapy journey can be daunting. Consider checking with your insurance or searching for free and low-cost clinics. For culturally centered services, here are some excellent resources:

• Black Therapists Matter

• Therapy for Black Girls

• Open Path

  
  

If in-person therapy doesn’t fit into your schedule, consider virtual therapy options. They can be just as effective while adding convenience.

Find a Black therapist near you.

You Deserve This Space

Therapy does not take away from your strength, family, or faith—it enhances it. You deserve a space where you can show up fully and authentically, without needing to apologize for your emotions. Healing is indeed your birthright, and it’s time to embrace it.