Clinical hypnotherapy and motivational interviewing for black gay men

Why do I, a White immigrant from Moscow, Russia, have the audacity and boldness to put on my website a specialty that I serve gay Black men, and how do I serve you to begin with?

First, let me share with you my story. In 2013, when I landed in Chicago, IL, and started my personal and professional journey in the US, the only community that accepted me as an equal human being was the Black community.

Second, we do have an extreme shortage of Black therapists, psychologists, and other Black professionals who could provide professional services to gay Black men because of systemic racism, lack of access, religious beliefs, and a system that is not designed to support a community that is not rooted in whiteness and Eurocentrism.

Third, it would be extremely unethical to expect existing Black professionals to simply meet the demand from the community, including Black gay, bi, and trans men. This is why it is essential for professionals from other cultural backgrounds to learn cultural humility and the skills required for a multicultural approach and counseling.

How do I make sure that I am providing adequate culturally appropriate service for Black gay, bi, and trans men?

First, it’s through education; yes, I do take continuing education and college classes related to multicultural counseling. In fact, it’s a part of my curriculum for addiction counseling, so I am always up to date with the latest research and approaches.

Listening to the community, staying in touch. This is something that classes alone can’t teach me, but my church community, my family (my husband is Black; we stay with the family closely). Cultural humility: I don’t assume I know; I ask questions and listen.

Issues that Black gay men come to me with.

• Adjustment after a breakup or a divorce.

• Professional stress. Black gay men carry unique and heavy stress when it comes to running a business or navigating careers.

  Examples: microaggressions at work, slow promotions, unequal pay (I have seen where Black engineers were paid 15-20% less than engineers from other cultural groups.) Again this is my private observation.

• Interracial relationships.

• Non-monogamy.

• Spiritual and faith development that affirms your culture and sexuality.

• Body image.

• Pain management.

A little bit about myself.

I was born and raised in Moscow, Russia. I am part Russian, Tatar, and Ukrainian. I speak English, Russian, American Sign Language, Russian Sign Language, intermediate Spanish, Tatar, and a little bit of Turkish