As someone born and raised in Hackney, East London, in the vibrant cultural mix of the 1970s, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs of Black communities in this area. Growing up Afro-Caribbean in Hackney, mental health wasn’t a topic that came up often at the dinner table or during community gatherings. Today, as a counsellor practicing in my hometown, I see both the progress we’ve made and the persistent myths that keep some from seeking the support they need.
Therapy is not—and never was—meant to be an experience reserved for others. It is for us too. However, there are misconceptions about therapy in Black communities that need addressing. Here, I aim to debunk some of these myths, providing clarity and encouragement to those who may be hesitant.
Myth 1: “Therapy is for white people.”
This myth is deeply rooted in the historical exclusion and marginalization Black communities have faced in healthcare and mental health systems. Growing up, many of us saw therapy as something irrelevant to our struggles, something distant from our lived realities.
However, therapy is for everyone. Black people face unique stressors—racial discrimination, microaggressions, and systemic inequalities—that can significantly impact mental health. Culturally sensitive therapists, many of whom are Black themselves, understand these dynamics and can provide a safe space to explore these experiences.
Therapists like myself have trained to honor cultural backgrounds and lived experiences. Seeking therapy doesn’t mean aligning with “other people’s” ideas of wellness—it’s about reclaiming your mental health on your own terms.
Myth 2: “Talking to family or friends is enough.”
Our Afro-Caribbean heritage places high value on community and familial support. Growing up, our elders were often our counsellors, offering wisdom drawn from life’s hardships. While these connections are invaluable, they can’t replace professional mental health care.
A therapist provides a neutral, nonjudgmental perspective that friends and family may not be equipped to offer. Therapy involves evidence-based techniques that help you process trauma, manage anxiety, or navigate life changes in ways that even the most loving relative may not know how to support.
Family and community are vital, but they don’t negate the need for a trained professional who can provide tailored tools for healing and growth.
Myth 3: “Therapy means something is wrong with you.”
One of the most damaging misconceptions is that seeking therapy is an admission of weakness or failure. This belief, unfortunately, often leads to suffering in silence.
The truth is, therapy is a proactive step toward self-improvement and empowerment. Much like going to the gym strengthens your body, therapy strengthens your mind. It’s not about “fixing” something broken but about enhancing your resilience and well-being.
I’ve worked with clients from all walks of life—students, parents, professionals—who’ve come to therapy not because they’re “broken,” but because they want to thrive. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Myth 4: “Therapists won’t understand me.”
It’s true that mental health services haven’t always been welcoming or inclusive for Black communities. The lack of Black therapists and cultural competence in the profession has historically been a barrier. However, this is changing.
In Hackney and beyond, there is a growing movement of Black therapists, myself included, who are committed to understanding and addressing the specific needs of our communities. Therapists who are not Black are increasingly being trained in cultural sensitivity to ensure they can provide effective care.
If you’ve had a negative experience in the past, I encourage you not to give up. Finding the right therapist is a bit like finding the right pair of shoes—you might need to try a few before you find the perfect fit.
Myth 5: “Prayer or faith should be enough.”
Faith and spirituality are cornerstones for many in the Black community, offering comfort and strength in difficult times. However, therapy and faith don’t have to be mutually exclusive.
I often work with clients who integrate their spiritual beliefs into their therapeutic journey. Therapy isn’t about replacing your faith—it’s about complementing it. Both can coexist, providing a fuller, richer approach to mental health and well-being.
Moving Forward
Breaking the stigma around therapy in Black communities starts with open conversations and accessible resources. In Hackney, initiatives like Black Thrive and the Black and Minority Ethnic Counselling Service are working to bridge the gap, ensuring that mental health support is culturally relevant and accessible.
As a counsellor who grew up in this borough, I see how much strength exists in our community. Therapy doesn’t take away from that strength—it enhances it. The more we challenge these myths, the more we create space for healing and growth, not just for individuals but for entire families and communities.
If you’re considering therapy, I encourage you to take that step. It’s not just a choice for yourself; it’s a choice that ripples outward, breaking barriers for others to follow.
Resources for Further Support:
Let’s normalize seeking help and embracing mental health care. Our community deserves it