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black therapy 101
Black Therapy 101 is a community series designed to make conversations about mental health feel safe, accessible, and rooted in Black experiences. Each event invites therapists, healers, and mental health practitioners to engage directly with attendees, offering both education and hands-on wellness practices that participants can immediately apply in their daily lives.
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Through this program, we’ve learned that our community is not only eager to learn about therapy but also wants access to a wider range of wellness tools and practitioners. By bridging that gap, Black Therapy 101 helps participants understand what therapy can look like—from traditional counseling to holistic healing—and how to find approaches that truly fit their needs.
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Over the past two years, more than 350 community members have attended three Black Therapy 101 events, each one creating space for meaningful dialogue, connection, and healing within the Black community.
Past Panelist
Black Therapy 101: The First Conversation
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Dr. Darla Timbo, Psy.D., LPC – Professional psychologist, licensed professional counselor, and owner of Atlas Counseling Services in Pittsburgh’s East End.
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Dr. Johnnie Geathers – Therapist at HandinHand Counseling Services, specializing in anxiety, mindfulness, and life transitions.
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Dr. Sylvester Hanner – Professional school counselor with Pittsburgh Public Schools, focusing on youth mental health and wellness.
Black Therapy 101: The Next Layer
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Dr. Darla Timbo, Psy.D., LPC – Owner, Atlas Counseling Services; Faculty, PennWest University–California Campus; 15+ years of experience serving underrepresented communities.
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Mauri Tate, LCSW – Licensed therapist and founder of Bridging the Gap Services, LLC, providing therapy and training for historically marginalized communities.
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Dr. Rueben Brock, Psy.D. – Psychologist, author, professor, and motivational speaker passionate about holistic wellness and creative expression.
Black Therapy 101: Healing Through Community
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Julius Boatwright, Founder & Managing Director, Steel Smiling
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Rakeem Collins, Beams to Bridges Graduate, Team Lead, Violence Disruptors
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Sydney Davis, Founder & CEO, Artist Talk Mental Health
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Treble, Artist & Therapeutic Spaces Graduate
