Finding the right therapist is crucial for effective mental health treatment, especially when you’re looking for someone who understands the unique experiences of being both Black and LGBTQ+. The initial consultation is your opportunity to assess whether a therapist has the cultural competency, clinical skills, and personal qualities needed to support your healing journey. Here are essential questions to ask potential therapists.
Questions About Training and Credentials
Professional Qualifications
“What are your educational background and professional licenses?”
Look for therapists with appropriate graduate degrees (Master’s or Doctoral) in mental health fields and current licensure in your state. Common licenses include LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor), LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist), or equivalent.
“What specific training do you have in working with LGBTQ+ clients?”
Seek therapists with specialized training in LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, not just general diversity training. Look for continuing education, certification programs, or specialized coursework in sexual orientation and gender identity issues.
“How much training and experience do you have working with Black or African American clients?”
Cultural competency requires both education and experience. Ask about multicultural counseling training, cultural humility practices, and specific experience working with Black communities.
“What ongoing continuing education do you pursue related to cultural competency?”
Mental health best practices evolve constantly. Effective therapists commit to ongoing learning about cultural competency, LGBTQ+ issues, and working with intersectional identities.
Specialized Training Areas
“Do you have training in trauma-informed care?”
Given high rates of trauma in Black LGBTQ+ communities, trauma-informed care is essential. Ask about specific trauma therapy training like EMDR, CBT for trauma, or somatic approaches.
“What experience do you have with [specific issues]?”
Be specific about your concerns: depression, anxiety, family rejection, relationship issues, substance use, career challenges, or other specific areas you want to address.
“Are you trained in any specific therapeutic modalities?”
Ask about their training in evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), or other specific modalities.
Questions About Cultural Competency
Understanding Intersectional Identities
“How do you understand the intersection of racial and LGBTQ+ identities?”
Look for therapists who understand that being Black and LGBTQ+ creates unique experiences, not just the sum of separate identities. They should understand concepts like minority stress and intersectionality.
“What is your experience with minority stress and its impact on mental health?”
Effective therapists understand how discrimination and marginalization affect psychological well-being and can address these systemic issues in treatment.
“How do you approach the different ways that racism and homophobia/transphobia can intersect?”
Your therapist should understand experiences like facing racism in LGBTQ+ spaces or homophobia/transphobia in Black communities, and how these create unique stressors.
“What do you know about Black family dynamics and cultural factors that might influence therapy?”
Cultural competency includes understanding family structures, religious influences, communication patterns, and cultural values that may impact treatment.
Specific Cultural Knowledge
“How familiar are you with Black LGBTQ+ history and community?”
A culturally competent therapist should have knowledge of Black LGBTQ+ pioneers, community organizations, cultural expressions, and historical context.
“What role do you see spirituality and religion playing in mental health for Black LGBTQ+ individuals?”
Many Black LGBTQ+ individuals have complex relationships with faith. Your therapist should be able to address religious trauma while respecting spiritual beliefs.
“How do you address internalized oppression and shame in therapy?”
Look for therapists who understand how systemic oppression becomes internalized and have specific strategies for addressing shame and self-hatred.
“What is your understanding of the chosen family and its importance in Black LGBTQ+ communities?”
Your therapist should understand and validate chosen family relationships and their role in healing and support.
Questions About Clinical Approach
Therapeutic Style and Methods
“How would you describe your therapeutic approach or style?”
Some therapists are more directive, others more collaborative. Some focus on insight, others on behavioral change. Find someone whose style matches your preferences and needs.
“How do you typically structure therapy sessions?”
Understand whether they focus on immediate problem-solving, long-term insight, or a combination. Ask about homework, between-session contact, and treatment planning.
“How do you handle situations where my experiences of discrimination might be affecting my mental health?”
Your therapist should be able to address how external oppression impacts internal well-being and help you develop coping strategies.
“What role do you see family relationships playing in therapy?”
Depending on your situation, you may want someone who can work with family dynamics, support you through family rejection, or help you build a chosen family.
Treatment Planning and Goals
“How do we decide on treatment goals and plans?”
Look for collaborative approaches where your input is valued and you have agency in your treatment decisions.
“How do you measure progress in therapy?”
Understand how you’ll know if therapy is working and what benchmarks you’ll use to assess improvement.
“What happens if the therapeutic approach isn’t working well for me?”
A good therapist should be flexible and willing to adapt their approach or provide referrals if needed.
“How long do you typically work with clients, and how do you decide when therapy should end?”
Understand their approach to treatment duration and termination planning.
Questions About Practical Matters
Logistics and Accessibility
“What is your fee structure, and do you accept my insurance?”
Understand all costs, including copays, deductibles, and out-of-network fees. Ask about sliding scale options if cost is a concern.
“What is your cancellation policy?”
Understand policies around missed appointments, late cancellations, and any associated fees.
“Do you offer telehealth options?”
This can be especially important for accessing specialized therapists who may not be geographically close.
“How do you handle scheduling and appointment changes?”
Understand their flexibility and responsiveness to scheduling needs.
Communication and Boundaries
“What is your policy on between-session contact?”
Understand when and how you can contact them between appointments and what constitutes an emergency.
“How do you handle crisis situations or mental health emergencies?”
Know their after-hours policy and emergency procedures. Ask for crisis contact information.
“What are your boundaries around social media and personal relationships?”
Understand their policies about social media connections, community events, and dual relationships.
Questions About Specific Identity Factors
Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
“What experience do you have working with [gay men/lesbian women/bisexual individuals/transgender people/non-binary individuals]?”
Be specific about your identity and ask about their experience with your specific community.
“How do you stay current on LGBTQ+ terminology and community issues?”
Language and understanding evolve. Look for therapists committed to staying current.
“What is your approach to supporting clients through coming out processes?”
If relevant to your situation, understand their experience and approach to coming out in support.
“How do you handle issues around disclosure and privacy regarding sexual orientation or gender identity?”
Understand their approach to confidentiality and any limits on privacy.
Racial and Cultural Identity
“How do you approach discussions about racism and discrimination in therapy?”
Your therapist should be comfortable discussing race and racism and understand their impact on mental health.
“What experience do you have addressing workplace or educational discrimination?”
If you’re facing discrimination in professional or academic settings, ensure your therapist can provide relevant support.
“How do you help clients navigate predominantly white spaces while maintaining cultural identity?”
Many Black LGBTQ+ individuals need support navigating primarily white environments while staying connected to their cultural identity.
Questions About Their Personal Background
Therapist Identity and Background
“What drew you to working with Black LGBTQ+ clients?”
Understanding their motivation can help you assess their genuine commitment to culturally competent care.
“How do you examine your own biases and assumptions?”
Look for therapists who engage in ongoing self-reflection and are aware of their own limitations and biases.
“What identities do you hold, and how might they impact our work together?”
While therapists don’t need to share all personal information, understanding their identity and perspective can be helpful.
“How do you handle situations where you don’t understand something about my experience?”
Look for humility and willingness to learn, as well as commitment to cultural competency.
Professional Development and Community Engagement
“Are you connected to Black LGBTQ+ communities or organizations?”
While not required, community engagement can indicate deeper understanding and commitment.
“Who do you consult with when you have questions about cultural or identity issues?”
Good therapists have supervisors, colleagues, or consultants they can turn to for guidance.
“What professional organizations or associations are you involved with?”
Look for involvement in organizations focused on multicultural competency or LGBTQ+ affirmative care.
Red Flags to Watch For
Warning Signs
Be cautious of therapists who:
- Can’t answer basic questions about LGBTQ+ terminology or issues
- Seem uncomfortable discussing race or discrimination
- Make assumptions about your experiences based on stereotypes
- Suggest your identity is the problem rather than discrimination
- Lack training or experience with your specific concerns
- Seem inflexible or unwilling to adapt their approach
- Don’t understand the concept of minority stress or intersectionality
- Express religious or moral objections to LGBTQ+ identities
Concerning Responses
Watch for responses that indicate:
- Limited understanding of cultural factors
- Bias or prejudice about your identities
- Inability to separate their own beliefs from professional practice
- Lack of awareness about systemic oppression
- Focus on changing your identity rather than supporting it
- Discomfort with strong emotions or difficult topics
- Rigid adherence to approaches that don’t fit your needs
Making Your Decision
Evaluating Responses
Consider:
- Do their answers demonstrate genuine competency and understanding?
- Do you feel heard and understood during the consultation?
- Are they willing to admit limitations and seek consultation when needed?
- Do they seem genuinely committed to culturally responsive care?
- Are their practical arrangements feasible for your situation?
Trusting Your Instincts
Remember that:
- You should feel comfortable and safe with your therapist
- Cultural competency is essential, not optional
- It’s okay to interview multiple therapists before choosing
- You can change therapists if the fit isn’t right
- Your healing deserves skilled, affirming care
Following Up
After your consultation:
- Take time to process your impressions
- Discuss with trusted friends or family if helpful
- Trust your instincts about the therapeutic relationship
- Remember that finding the right therapist may take time
- Don’t settle for inadequate care due to limited options
Finding a culturally competent therapist who understands your intersectional identities is worth the effort. These questions can help you identify providers who have the skills, knowledge, and commitment needed to support your mental health journey effectively. Remember that you deserve care that honors all aspects of who you are.