As we pause to honor Black History Month, we at Geode Health are reflecting on the importance of recognizing not only the achievements and contributions of Black individuals throughout history but also the significance of diversity, inclusion, and understanding in mental healthcare.
In the realm of mental health, it’s essential that people feel seen, heard, and understood. We recognize that seeking therapy is a deeply personal decision and that the journey often comes with both courage and vulnerability. For many individuals, finding a provider who resonates with their lived experiences—someone who relates—can be a crucial part of the healing process. The idea of someone who looks like them and may have faced similar challenges can make the difference between feeling comfortable and isolated.
Breaking Down Barriers of Stigma
We understand that in some communities, cultural stigmas surrounding mental health may prevent individuals from seeking help when they need it the most. There is still work to be done to ensure that seeking support is viewed as a strength, not a sign of weakness, and that people from all walks of life can feel safe and welcome in the mental health space. This is especially true for marginalized communities, where the fear of judgment or not being understood can often keep someone from taking the first step toward healing.
Diversity That Speaks for Itself
At Geode, we are incredibly proud of our diverse team of professionals. As a national organization spanning five states with varying geographies and demographics, our commitment to cultural diversity should be reflected not just in our words but also in the faces of our providers.
It’s not something we always talk about because it’s simply who we are. However, during this Black History Month, we feel it’s essential to make it clear: we see you. We understand that, for some, the image of a psychiatrist or therapist may fit a narrow mold or stereotype, but we want to challenge that perception. At Geode, you’ll see a different story when you explore our locations and scroll through our providers. It is a story that defies that “cookie-cutter” image many may have expected regarding mental health professionals.
“While it’s not always openly acknowledged, many of us have a mental image of what a doctor, nurse, therapist, or other healthcare provider ‘should’ look like,” shares William Hunter, therapist at Geode Health in Allen, Texas. “This image creates a narrow expectation, limiting the depth of our experiences and hindering our natural ability and desire to truly connect.“
Our organization proudly welcomes a diverse team of providers from varied backgrounds and cultures, each offering a unique perspective. Whether you’re seeking someone who shares similar experiences or just looking for a compassionate professional who understands the importance of cultural sensitivity, we have someone for you.
“Empathy plays a big part in therapy,” adds Hunter. “Finding the right provider and connection plays a big role in someone’s healing journey.”
A Commitment to Cultural Competence
But diversity at Geode isn’t just about what our providers look like—it’s about who they are and the experiences they bring to their work. We understand that cultural competence is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Some of our providers specialize in cultural diversity issues, trauma-related concerns, and other topics that may carry specific stigmas in different communities. We know that a person’s background, identity, and lived experiences play a significant role in their mental health journey, and we honor that deeply.
“Cultural competence and personalized care are essential in mental health care, as they ensure that individuals are understood, respected, and supported in a way that acknowledges their unique backgrounds and needs,” shares Chibogu Obianwu, a psychiatric nurse practitioner at Geode Health in Libertyville, Illinois.
It’s our mission to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, can find a provider who not only sees them for who they are but who can relate to their unique needs. This extends beyond ethnicity or race—it includes gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and any other aspect of identity that shapes a person’s life.
A Place for Everyone
This month, in particular, we celebrate the richness of Black culture and heritage and remind our community that Geode Health is a place where diversity thrives, where everyone is seen, heard, and respected. But this is not just for the Black community—it’s for any community, anywhere. Whether you’re in Texas, Illinois, Georgia, or a future home to Geode, we will likely have a provider who can relate to you and understand your needs on a deeper level.
“As an African American mental health professional, I’ve seen firsthand how cultural diversity fosters deeper trust and understanding in treatment, ultimately improving outcomes,” said Kahari Scott, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner based in Atlanta, Georgia, practicing at Geode’s North Druid Hills location. “When patients feel their unique experiences and cultural backgrounds are validated, it empowers them to fully engage in the healing process. Honoring cultural identity is not just an approach—it’s a bridge to better mental health.”
As a team, we strive to foster an environment where all people, regardless of their background, can access the care they need. When individuals feel understood, they are more likely to trust the therapeutic process and find the healing they seek.
Looking Ahead
Mental health is a universal need, but the path to healing is not always the same for everyone. At Geode Health, we are committed to meeting people where they are and offering compassionate care tailored to their individual needs. We believe in the power of a supportive relationship with a provider who not only listens but relates.
This Black History Month, we celebrate and reflect on the incredible value of diversity in mental healthcare. But more importantly, we reaffirm our commitment to providing the most inclusive, culturally competent care possible every day of the year.
At Geode Health, we’re here for you—not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because it’s who we are.
Visit book.geodehealth.com to find a provider who suits your needs.
