A Space for Your Full Black Self—No Code-Switching Required

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The clients I work in with in Washington State share a common experience: not feeling “Black enough” in society. Many grew up in families that bullied or teased them for their interests, calling them “too sensitive” when they reacted appropriately or accusing them of “acting white” for liking things outside of what was considered culturally acceptable. Some felt ostracized because they grew up with corporal punishment but never “turned out fine.” Others carry deeper wounds—traumas from family members, the church, or the communities they were supposed to feel safe in.

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These experiences shape us, yet many of us never had the language to describe what we were going through. Instead, the weight of these experiences manifests as symptoms that look a lot like mental illness. In my practice, I provide a non-judgmental and affirming space to be your full Black self, however you show up. You don’t have to worry about code-switching, microaggressions, or being misunderstood. And while we are all Black here, I know that my Black experience isn’t yours—so I take the time to understand your unique journey.

Why a Black Therapist?

The first therapist I saw in the Pacific Northwest was a white man. After I told him I was a therapist myself, his first question was, "How do you think therapy will be affected by me being a white man and you being a Black man?"

The second was a white woman. I opened up about a specific racial trauma I had experienced, and she began crying—inconsolably.

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The third, another white woman, listened to me describe my experiences and then complimented me on being “well-spoken” before suggesting that my racial trauma was simply “coloring” my thoughts and that I was seeing racism where it didn’t exist.

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It is rough out here.

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But what’s worse is that therapists hold tremendous power—more than most people realize. A single diagnosis can alter the entire trajectory of your personal and professional life. Unfortunately, many therapists from the majority fail to recognize the effects of covert racism, often mistaking its impact for mental illness.

So it makes sense that you’d want to see a therapist who looks like you.

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Specializing in Black Professionals & Code-Switching Fatigue

 

 While I work with a variety of concerns, I focus on a very specific experience that many Black professionals endure: masking in the corporate world—better known as “code-switching.” Over my 8 years as a therapist, I’ve worked with Black professionals from a variety of backgrounds. Sometimes they came to me specifically looking for a Black therapist. Other times, they didn’t realize how much it mattered—until they experienced the difference.

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At first, many were reserved, worried about being judged. But through my authenticity—showing up as my full Black self—we were able to connect on a much deeper level.

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Therapy That Understands You

But therapy isn’t just about being Black. You deserve to have all your mental health concerns addressed.

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• Need help getting accommodations?

• Curious if you may have ADHD?

• Have other mental health questions?

 

Sign up for a free 30-minute consultation. I’ll walk you through my approach, what to expect, and payment options. And if I’m not the right fit, I’ll help you find someone who is. You have nothing to lose.

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Therapy does not mean you are crazy. It does not mean something is wrong with you.

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You are doing the best you can with what you know. I want to help you come to know something different.

I look forward to your appointment request.

 

 ​​-Derrick J. Hoard

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