Debunking Common Myths About Therapy in Black Communities
4. Debunking Common Myths About Therapy in Black Communities: A Counsellor’s Perspective 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: Black Thrive London Mind in Hackney Therapy for Black Girls Let’s normalize seeking help and embracing mental health care. Our community deserves it
The Importance of Culturally Sensitive Mental Health Care
3. The Importance of Culturally Sensitive Mental Health Care As a counsellor born and raised in Hackney in the 1970s, I’ve witnessed the profound changes in my community over the decades. Hackney has always been a melting pot of cultures, with people from Afro-Caribbean, African, South Asian, and many other backgrounds living side by side. Growing up as a Black British man of Afro-Caribbean heritage, I experienced both the richness of my culture and the systemic barriers faced by my community. Today, as a counsellor practicing in Hackney, I see how these dynamics continue to shape mental health experiences. Culturally sensitive mental health care is not just a preference—it is a necessity. Our cultural backgrounds deeply influence how we perceive mental health, how we communicate distress, and how we seek and respond to help. When these factors are overlooked, the quality of care suffers, leaving many underserved and alienated. Why Culture Matters in Mental Health Culture shapes our values, beliefs, and ways of understanding the world. For example, in Afro-Caribbean communities, there is often an emphasis on resilience and collective strength, born from a history of enduring systemic racism, slavery, and colonialism. While these values are empowering, they can also make it harder to seek help for mental health struggles, as vulnerability might be misinterpreted as weakness (Mental Health Foundation, 2021). In mainstream mental health care, many therapeutic models are based on Western frameworks, which may not fully resonate with individuals from non-Western backgrounds. For example, a client from an Afro-Caribbean heritage may place a strong emphasis on family and community, while traditional therapy models often prioritize individualism. Without cultural sensitivity, these nuances can be missed, leaving clients feeling misunderstood or invalidated (British Psychological Society, 2020). Barriers to Accessing Mental Health Care Mistrust of the System In Black communities, historical and ongoing experiences of systemic racism have bred mistrust in institutions, including health care. Black people in the UK are disproportionately sectioned under the Mental Health Act, which reinforces fears of being over-policed or misunderstood in vulnerable moments (Mind, 2020). As a counsellor, I’ve heard clients share concerns about whether their therapist will truly understand their experiences of racism, cultural identity, or microaggressions. Without cultural sensitivity, therapy can feel like yet another space where they must explain or defend their existence. Stigma and Silence In many cultures, mental health struggles are stigmatized, and seeking professional help can be seen as a sign of weakness. Growing up in Hackney, I saw how mental health issues were often dismissed with phrases like, “Just pray about it” or “Man up.” Faith and resilience are important parts of many communities, but they should complement, not replace, mental health support. The Role of Culturally Sensitive Care Culturally sensitive mental health care addresses these barriers by acknowledging and respecting the cultural contexts in which people live. It doesn’t just consider symptoms and diagnoses—it takes into account the client’s cultural identity, values, and lived experiences. Building Trust and Understanding A culturally sensitive therapist is open to learning about the client’s cultural background and how it informs their mental health. This can include acknowledging systemic issues such as racism or gentrification, which are particularly relevant in places like Hackney. For example, the rapid changes in the area have left many long-term residents feeling displaced or invisible—a theme that often emerges in therapy. Adapting Therapeutic Approaches Cultural sensitivity also means tailoring therapeutic approaches to align with the client’s worldview. For some, this might mean incorporating discussions of spirituality or family dynamics into therapy. For others, it could involve addressing the impact of historical trauma, such as the legacy of slavery or colonialism, on their mental health. Representation Matters While cultural sensitivity is vital for all therapists, representation within the mental health field itself is equally important. Seeing a therapist who shares your cultural background can create an immediate sense of connection and understanding. As a Black British counsellor, I often hear from clients that they feel relieved to talk to someone who “gets it.” Representation validates experiences and challenges the notion that mental health care is only for certain groups. How We Can Move Forward Education and Training Therapists and mental health professionals must commit to ongoing education in cultural competency. This includes understanding the historical and social contexts that shape clients’ experiences, as well as addressing their own biases. Community-Based Interventions Bringing mental health care into community spaces can help bridge the gap for those who feel alienated by traditional systems. In Hackney, initiatives like culturally specific support groups and partnerships with faith leaders have shown promise in reducing stigma and increasing access to care (Hackney Council, 2021). Advocacy for Systemic Change Culturally sensitive care also requires systemic change. This means addressing the structural inequalities that disproportionately impact Black and minority ethnic communities, from housing and education to employment and health care access. A Call to Action As someone who grew up in Hackney and continues to serve its diverse population, I am passionate about making mental health care accessible and meaningful for everyone. Cultural sensitivity is not an optional extra—it is fundamental to providing effective support. If we want to break down barriers and truly address mental health in our communities, we must start by listening. Listening to the stories, struggles, and strengths of those we serve. By doing so, we can create a mental health system that is not only inclusive but transformative. References British Psychological Society. (2020). Understanding racial disparities in mental health. Hackney Council. (2021). Mental health and community support in Hackney. Mental Health Foundation. (2021). Black and minority ethnic mental health in the UK. (2020). Mental health in Black communities: Breaking barriers. Culturally sensitive mental health care is the bridge between understanding and healing. It acknowledges that every client brings their own story, shaped by culture, history, and identity, and it ensures those stories are heard and valued. Together, we can make mental health care work for everyone.
How to Start Therapy When You Don’t See Representation
2. How to Start Therapy When You Don’t See Representation Starting therapy is a big step, and for many, it’s a vulnerable leap into the unknown. For those of us from Black and minority ethnic communities, the journey to therapy can feel even more daunting when the professionals available don’t reflect our cultural background, experiences, or identities. As a Black British counsellor from Afro-Caribbean heritage, born and raised in Hackney, East London, I understand the challenges faced by those who don’t see representation in the mental health field. I also understand the immense courage it takes to begin therapy despite these obstacles. This blog is for anyone wondering how to take that first step when it feels like the system wasn’t built with you in mind. The Importance of Representation in Therapy Representation matters in every aspect of life, but in therapy, it can be especially important. When clients see therapists who share their cultural background, it can foster trust and understanding from the outset. For many in Black communities, therapy can feel inaccessible because of the perception that counsellors won’t understand our experiences of racism, cultural identity, or the nuanced dynamics within our families and communities (British Psychological Society, 2020). But what happens when you don’t have access to a therapist who looks like you or shares your cultural heritage? Is therapy still worth pursuing? The answer is yes. While representation enhances the therapeutic relationship, it’s not the only factor that determines whether therapy can work for you. Steps to Starting Therapy Without Representation 1. Reflect on What You Need from Therapy Before starting therapy, take some time to think about what you want from the process. Are you seeking support for specific issues, such as anxiety or depression? Do you want to explore your identity, family dynamics, or cultural experiences? Identifying your needs will help you find a therapist whose approach aligns with your goals, even if they don’t share your background. 2. Ask Questions During Initial Consultations Most therapists offer an initial consultation, which is an opportunity for you to ask questions and gauge whether you feel comfortable with them. Use this time to ask about their experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds or their understanding of cultural issues. A good therapist will listen without judgment and be open to learning from you. Questions to consider include: Have you worked with clients from Afro-Caribbean or Black British backgrounds? How do you approach issues of race, identity, or cultural dynamics in therapy? Are you comfortable discussing systemic racism or microaggressions? 3. Look for Therapists Committed to Cultural Competency Even if a therapist doesn’t share your background, they can still provide effective support if they’re culturally competent. Culturally competent therapists are those who actively educate themselves about diversity and are sensitive to the unique experiences of their clients (Mind, 2020). You can search for therapists who explicitly mention cultural sensitivity in their profiles. Organizations like the Black, African, and Asian Therapy Network (BAATN) or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) often highlight therapists who specialize in diversity. 4. Acknowledge the Power of Shared Humanity While cultural understanding is important, it’s also worth remembering that therapy is a relationship built on empathy, trust, and connection. A skilled therapist, regardless of their background, will prioritize creating a safe space where you feel heard and validated. The shared humanity between client and therapist can be a powerful bridge, even in the absence of cultural similarity (Royal College of Psychiatrists, 2021). 5. Consider Alternative Therapy Formats If you’re struggling to find representation locally, consider online therapy. Digital platforms expand your options, allowing you to connect with therapists from different parts of the country or even internationally. Additionally, group therapy or support groups focused on Black mental health can provide community and solidarity. Challenges and How to Navigate Them Fear of Being Misunderstood Many people worry that a therapist from a different background won’t understand their experiences. It’s okay to voice this concern during sessions. A good therapist will be receptive and willing to explore how their own biases or blind spots might affect the process. The Emotional Labor of Explaining It can feel exhausting to educate a therapist about your culture or experiences of racism. While this is valid, remember that therapy is your space. You are not obligated to explain your entire cultural history; instead, focus on what feels most relevant to your healing. Cost and Accessibility Therapy can be expensive, and private therapy may not always feel accessible. Consider exploring charities or community organizations that provide low-cost counselling, such as Mind in Hackney or culturally focused initiatives like BAATN. Moving Forward with Hope Despite the challenges, therapy can be a transformative journey. In my practice here in Hackney, I’ve seen how powerful it is when clients allow themselves the space to process their emotions, challenge old patterns, and embrace new perspectives. Even when representation isn’t available, healing is still possible. If you’re considering therapy, I encourage you to take that first step. Advocate for your needs, ask the difficult questions, and trust that you deserve support, even if it means navigating a system that doesn’t always reflect your identity. Hackney has changed since my childhood, but the diversity and resilience of its people remain its heartbeat. The same resilience that has sustained our community can guide you as you take this step toward your mental health. References British Psychological Society. (2020). Race and mental health: A call for action. (2020). Mental health experiences in Black communities. Royal College of Psychiatrists. (2021). The importance of cultural competence in therapy. Black, African, and Asian Therapy Network (BAATN). (2022). Directory of diverse therapists. These resources provide further information on navigating therapy and the importance of diversity in mental health. Remember, while representation is ideal, healing can happen in spaces where empathy, understanding, and trust are prioritized.
Understanding the stigma of Mental Health in Communities of Colour
1. Understanding the Stigma of Mental Health in Black Communities Growing up in Hackney in the 1970s and subsequent decades, I witnessed a community alive with vibrancy and resilience. My parents, part of the Windrush generation, instilled in me values of hard work, perseverance, and community solidarity. Yet, as I’ve grown older and pursued my career as a counsellor, I’ve come to see the silent struggles that often go unspoken in Black communities—especially when it comes to mental health. The stigma surrounding mental health in our community is complex, deeply rooted, and urgently needs addressing. A Historical Legacy of Strength For many of us with Afro-Caribbean heritage, there is a cultural emphasis on strength. Our ancestors survived the horrors of slavery, colonization, and systemic racism. My parents often reminded me that they came to the UK to build a better future for us, despite the discrimination they faced. In this narrative, strength was not just admirable; it was necessary for survival. But strength, when misunderstood, can become a barrier to vulnerability. Expressions like “man up” or “we don’t talk about that” are common. Mental health struggles, rather than being seen as part of the human experience, are often viewed as personal weaknesses—a failure to cope in a world already stacked against us. Growing up in Hackney, I saw this mindset all around me. Men worked long hours, often enduring the double burden of racism in the workplace and the pressures of being the family provider. Women juggled multiple roles with remarkable tenacity but rarely spoke of their own emotional needs. There was pride in resilience but little room for openness about emotional pain. Mistrust in Systems It’s impossible to discuss mental health stigma in Black communities without acknowledging the mistrust many feel towards the healthcare system. This mistrust is not without reason. Historically, Black people in the UK have been disproportionately diagnosed with severe mental health conditions and are more likely to be sectioned under the Mental Health Act (Mental Health Foundation, 2021). The over-reliance on coercive treatments like hospitalisation, and the underrepresentation of Black therapists, compounds feelings of alienation (Mind, 2020). I hear this mistrust echoed in the stories of my clients. They tell me about feeling misunderstood by professionals who don’t share their cultural frame of reference or fear being judged by friends and family if they seek help. In Hackney, where gentrification has transformed much of the borough, these issues are layered with a sense of cultural displacement—many feel their struggles are invisible in a changing community (Hackney Council, 2020). Faith and the Role of Religion Faith has always played a central role in the Black community. Growing up, the church was a cornerstone of my life. For many, the church is still a place of solace and strength. Spiritual leaders often provide emotional guidance, offering prayers and scripture as tools for overcoming difficulties. However, while faith can be a source of support, it can also contribute to stigma. Phrases like “leave it to God” or “pray it away” can discourage people from seeking professional help (Royal College of Psychiatrists, 2021). Some clients share their worry that acknowledging mental health struggles might be seen as a lack of faith or spiritual weakness. Breaking the Silence In my counselling practice, I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, heard, and understood—culturally and emotionally. Building this trust takes time, particularly in a community where silence around mental health has been the norm for generations. But I see signs of change. Younger generations are beginning to challenge the stigma, often drawing from their dual identities as Black British individuals who are more attuned to conversations about mental health in mainstream culture. As a counsellor, one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work is helping clients unpack the myths they’ve internalized about mental health. We talk about how seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step towards healing. We explore cultural and familial narratives, identifying how this shape their beliefs and behaviours. The Importance of Representation Representation matters. When I began my training as a counsellor, I was struck by how few people in the profession looked like me or shared my background. For Black clients, this lack of representation can reinforce feelings of disconnection (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, 2022). This is why I remain committed to practicing in Hackney, the community that raised me. My identity as a Black British counsellor with Afro-Caribbean roots allows me to bridge cultural gaps and offer a perspective that resonates with my clients. Moving Forward Together Addressing mental health stigma in Black communities requires a collective effort. Faith leaders, educators, families, and professionals must work together to normalize mental health conversations. Initiatives that bring therapy into community spaces—whether through churches, schools, or cultural centres—are vital. As a community, we must also challenge the notion that strength and vulnerability are mutually exclusive. True strength lies in recognizing when we need help and having the courage to seek it. Hackney has changed so much since I was a child, but its heart remains the same—a community bound by resilience and connection. My hope is that as we continue to evolve, we can foster a culture where mental health is no longer a taboo but an integral part of our collective well-being. Together, we can break the silence and begin to heal. References British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. (2022). The importance of diversity in counselling. Hackney Council. (2020). Gentrification and its effects on Hackney’s community. Mental Health Foundation. (2021). Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) mental health. (2020). The mental health experiences of Black people in the UK. Royal College of Psychiatrists. (2021). Faith and mental health in the Black community