Dr. Roslyn L. Ashford, LPC Nu Leaf Therapy

Black Women's issues

Ready to stop being strong for everybody and focus on you? Let's get started!

I help black women learn how to let go and find inner- peace by shedding outdated thinking and redefining what it means to be fantastic so that you can find your authentic voice and use it to support the things that are most important to you.

Have you lost much of the joy you once felt? Are you struggling in an abusive or toxic relationship? Do you have years of living with low self-worth resulting in a less-than-desirable life?

Throughout the ages, women have been called “the fairer sex.” And yet, were you to ask women about their life experiences, many would admit their life events haven’t always seemed so fair.

Women may experience certain environmental, psychological, and biological challenges related to gender that have a significant impact on their mental health and well-being. If not addressed properly, these challenges can turn into burdens that often lead to anxiety, depression, and a lost sense of self.

Are Black Women More at Risk of Developing Mental Health Issues?

Daniel Freeman, Oxford University clinical psychologist analyzed 12 large-scale studies and concluded that women may be between 20% and 40% more likely to develop a mental illness than men. According to Freeman, “Women tend to view themselves more negatively than men and that is a vulnerability factor for many mental health problems.”

And the problem is, we don’t feel safe enough to talk about it. Because we’re supposed to be good. Have it ALL together. Not true, Sis. 

Some common mental health issues experienced by black women include:

-Depression

-Anxiety

-Postpartum depression

-Postpartum psychosis

-Post-traumatic stress

-Eating disorders

-Borderline personality

-Mood-related challenges

-Low self-worth

-Self-harming behaviors

Why Seek Therapy for Women’s Issues?

Women’s issues can take a serious toll on a woman’s emotional, physical, and mental health. The effects can be mild to extreme, and in many cases, women are not able to cope with their issues on their own.

By seeking therapy, a woman can get the help she needs in overcoming an issue she has been struggling with.

There are several therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), that can offer coping tools and new perspectives. Seeking therapy can be an empowering first step on the road back to YOU. And while each step you take may, at times, feel challenging, uncertain, and scary, you will have someone right there with you listening and encouraging you to cross that finish line.

If you or someone you know would like to explore treatment options, please get in touch with me. I would be honored to walk with you on your journey.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.

The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.

Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the individual. I tailor my therapeutic approach to your specific needs.

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.

I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.

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