Dear Dr. Faith, I started therapy, but sometimes I spend more time explaining my culture than explaining my pain. There are things about race, family, faith, and the way I was raised that do not seem to translate. My therapist is kind, but I am beginning to wonder whether kindness is enough. How do I know whether someone really understands my Black experience, and does my therapist have to be Black to help me? Dear reader, what you are describing is real, and it can be exha

Dear Dr. Faith,People keep telling me to try therapy, but honestly, I don't trust the system. I've seen Black people misunderstood, labeled, and treated differently. I've had doctors dismiss my concerns before. How am I supposed to become vulnerable with another professional when part of me is wondering whether they will really hear me? How do I get help without ignoring what history and my own experiences have taught me? Dear Reader,I want to start here: your mistrust makes

Dear Dr. Faith, I know I haven't been myself. I'm overwhelmed, tired, and carrying things I don't know how to fix. But in my family, counseling isn't something we talk about. We're supposed to pray, be strong, and keep family business inside the family. Part of me knows I need help. Another part feels ashamed for even saying it. Does asking for help mean I'm weak, or that my faith isn't strong enough? Ask Dr. Faith! Dear Great Motivator, thank you for contacting us at Ask D