Why Is Therapy Still Taboo in the Black Community?

In this episode of Brit & The Chick, Melissa Knowles and Errol Barnett explore a topic many people are still hesitant to talk about openly: therapy and mental health in the Black community.

Melissa and Errol share their personal therapy journeys, and together they unpack the stigma that still surrounds seeking professional mental health support. From cultural expectations to financial barriers, the conversation examines why therapy has historically been viewed with skepticism — and why that mindset is beginning to shift.

They also discuss high-functioning depression, the importance of finding therapists who understand cultural context, and how faith and therapy can work together rather than in opposition.

This episode is about reframing therapy as a tool for growth, healing and generational change.

What We Talk About

• The stigma around therapy in the Black community
• Melissa’s personal experience with therapy
• Why high-functioning depression often goes unnoticed
• The financial barriers that prevent people from seeking help
• Why culturally competent therapists matter
• Faith and therapy working together
• Why therapy should be seen as mental health maintenance

Resources & Links Mentioned

Mental health resources referenced in this episode:

• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Minority Health
Mental & Behavioral Health in Black/African American Communities
https://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/mental-and-behavioral-health-blackafrican-americans

• Dr. Judith Joseph (Mental Health Researcher & Psychiatrist)
https://www.instagram.com/drjudithjoseph/

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• Brit & The Chick
https://www.instagram.com/britandthechick/

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Brit & The Chick is a weekly podcast hosted by longtime friends Melissa Knowles and Errol Barnett exploring culture, identity, purpose, and the questions we’re all quietly asking.

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New episodes every Thursday.