“Caring for myself is not self-indulgent, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”
Originally created for Strategic Community Partners' breakout session at the 2021 Upswell Summit, this guide was born from the belief that wellness is an essential foundation for sustainable Black leadership. Click here to view the original session.
Now, in 2024, the need for self-care and wellness within Black leadership has only grown more critical. Being a Black leader today means navigating systemic barriers, fostering resilience, and leading with authenticity—all while prioritizing mental, physical, and emotional well-being. This updated guide is designed to support Black leaders in caring for themselves and their communities.
Within, you’ll find resources focused on mental health, physical wellness, financial health, and self-care, curated to address the unique challenges and triumphs of Black leaders. From therapy directories to mindfulness apps and peer support groups, these tools empower Black leaders to prioritize self-care as a powerful, necessary act of resilience
Mental Health Provider Directories
Inclusive Therapists: Virtual directory of culturally competent and social justice-oriented therapists; includes a list of therapists currently offering reduced-fee teletherapy
Black Emotional And Mental Health (BEAM) Virtual Therapist Network: Virtual directory of Black mental health clinicians who provide virtual (i.e. telemedicine) services
Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation Resource Directory: Virtual directory of mental health providers, programs, and resource materials for the African-American community
Black Mental Health Alliance: Virtual directory of culturally competent and patient-centered licensed mental health professionals
Melanin & Mental Health Directory: Virtual directory of culturally competent mental health clinicians for Black & Latinx/Hispanic communities
Therapy for Black Girls Directory: Virtual directory of culturally competent therapy providers for Black women and girls, searchable by location. Fellowships and financial assistance are available through the Loveland Foundation
Therapy for Black Men Directory: Virtual directory of clinicians providing therapy for Black men
Online Support Groups
Therapy for Black Girls: Online space founded by Dr. Joy Bradford dedicated to encouraging the mental wellness of Black women and girls, including a free podcast aimed at making mental health topics accessible
Sister Afya Online Sister Support Group: Support group for learning from other women and learning life skills to improve mental well-being ($10/session fee but can contact booking@sistaafya.com if the fee is prohibitive)
Self-Guided Virtual Resources
The Safe Place: Free smartphone app focused on psychoeducation and self-care for minority mental health, geared towards the Black community
Racial Trauma Guide: Virtual guide on coping with racial stressors and being an ally, developed by the EMPOWER (Engaging Minorities in Prevention Outreach Wellness Education & Research) Lab
Black Emotional and Mental Health (BEAM) Toolkit & Resources