Breaking Barriers: The Black Therapy Network is Closing the Mental Health Gap for Black Americans
The Californer/10305503

NEW YORK - Californer -- With Black mental health gaining national attention, The Black Therapy Network (BTN) is launching to ensure culturally competent therapy is accessible to all. Black Americans are 50% less likely to receive treatment, despite facing mental health challenges at similar or higher rates than white Americans. With only 4% of therapists in the U.S. being Black, many struggle to find culturally competent care. BTN is bridging this gap by making therapy accessible, affordable, and stigma-free.

Unlike mainstream therapy platforms, BTN is built for Black clients by Black professionals, ensuring a deeper understanding of cultural experiences and identity-related stressors. This movement is dedicated to normalizing therapy in the Black community by breaking systemic barriers and providing a trusted space for healing.

Why This Matters

• Black Americans face significant barriers to mental health care, including stigma, financial constraints, and a lack of culturally competent providers.
• Mistrust in the medical system, along with systemic disparities, makes therapy harder to access.
• BTN offers affordable, virtual therapy with licensed Black professionals who understand their lived experiences.

"Far too often, Black individuals struggle to find therapy that speaks to their lived experiences," says Kerry Shipman, J.D., MPA, Founder of The Black Therapy Network. "BTN provides a space for Black clients to receive culturally aligned, accessible, and stigma-free care."

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BTN: A Solution Designed for the Black Community

• Black Therapists, Black Clients – All therapists on the platform are licensed Black professionals.
• Affordable Therapy Packages – Flexible pricing ensures accessibility.
• 100% Virtual Therapy – Clients receive care securely from anywhere in the U.S.
• A Focus on Stigma-Free Support – Encourages mental wellness as a community priority.

Now Accepting Clients Nationwide

BTN invites clients across the U.S. to join the waitlist for early access. Those who sign up will:

• Connect with licensed Black professionals
• Receive an exclusive discount on their first session
• Enter to win a Wellness Package Giveaway

Spots are filling up fast – sign up now at blacktherapy.net!

Therapists Support the Mission

"For many Black clients, finding a therapist who truly understands their experience can be life-changing," says Lethea Pittman, LCSW, LCAS. "The Black Therapy Network creates a safe space where healing can happen without barriers."

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Beyond Therapy: A Movement to Normalize Black Mental Health

BTN is more than a platform—it's a movement. The organization actively partners with Black-led organizations, mental health advocates, and community groups to expand awareness.

BTN is calling on media partners, corporate sponsors, and nonprofit organizations to join the movement. Together, we can break barriers to Black mental health care and create lasting change.