Chicago Black Therapists

What is our mission? 

Our mission is to provide a safe and accepting environment where cultural, societal, and racial experiences can be validated and celebrated.

What is The Problem We Are Solving?

Only 4% of mental health professionals identify as Black, and 50% of Black Americans who suffer from mental health related issues do not receive treatment, which is usually taught from a white lens. African Americans are disproportionately affected by a wide range of health and quality of life outcomes and risks. 

What Do We Do? 

Recirculate Funds: The directory allows us to fund this program and our foundation, In Good Wealth. Online Presence: 13k Google search impressions on our website per month + 1280 Black therapists and community members engaged through our email list and social media. Decolonize mental health: Through our resources, DEI services, and direct service programming with the help of partners and sponsors. A Resource: We create digital mental health resources and education for the community and host a directory of Black therapists.

Who is the Founder & CEO?

Cicely is a social entrepreneur decolonizing wellness. She is an Aerialist, Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Yoga Teacher, Model, and 6x Marathoner. Through her journey, Cicely has noticed one common theme - the lack of others in wellness spaces whom also identify as Black womxn. This inspired her to utilize her platform and expertise to create spaces in wellness and movement for Black-identifying individuals. Cicely is the founder of the nonprofit foundation, In Good Wealth, the Chicago Black Therapist Directory, BIPOC Circus Alliance Midwest, and contributor of various wellness and racial justice initiatives.

How We Will Use the Funds? 

Direct business impact through compensating our team, operational costs, building our digital presence, and direct wellness service programming. Health exploration through innovative ways for the Black community to access healing as well as eliminating mental health stigma. Establish an environment and resources that are accessible, inclusive & culturally sensitive. Assist with our future plans of building a private practice and form partnerships and brand sponsorships that support direct service programming. 

Are donations tax deductible? 

No, because we are an LLC. 

What are some suggested donations to make? 

• $100 donation will help cover one month of a HIPAA compliant Electronic Health Record such as Simple Practice
• $350 covers on year of malpractice insurance or annual fee to keep directory visible on our website
• $500 will cover one year of marketing and communications
• $1000 will cover quarterly fees to my accountant and lawyer so that I can manage my finances and stay in compliance
• $2000 is equivalent to the amount of PTO needed each month to prevent burnout
• If you would like to set up a recurring donation, please do so by visiting chicagoblacktherapists.com/donate