Supporting Mental Health in McKinney During BIPOC Mental Health Month

July marks BIPOC Mental Health Month—a time set aside to raise awareness about the unique mental health challenges faced by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. While the month itself may be nationally recognized, the real work happens in local communities like ours here in McKinney, Allen, Frisco, and surrounding areas.

Mental health concerns affect everyone, but for BIPOC communities, the barriers to accessing care can be higher—and the stressors more complex. Between systemic inequality, cultural stigma, and a shortage of providers who truly understand these layered experiences, many people are left feeling like therapy isn’t for them. The truth is: it should be.

The Facts Behind the Need

According to the nonprofit organization Mental Health America, Black and Hispanic adults in the U.S. seek mental health care at significantly lower rates than white adults—around 35–37% compared to 52%. This isn’t because the need is any lower. In fact, rates of psychological distress are often higher among BIPOC individuals. What’s different is the access, representation, and trust in the system.

These numbers reflect what we see in practice. It’s not uncommon to hear from clients who’ve waited years to explore therapy because they weren’t sure they’d be heard, understood, or accepted. That hesitation is valid. It’s also something we can work to change—starting with the kind of care we offer.

Culturally Responsive Therapy Matters

At my practice, Acadia Psychotherapy& Associates, in McKinney, cultural responsiveness isn’t a buzzword. It’s part of how I approach every session. That means I take time to understand the context of your lived experience—how your identity, culture, history, and community impact your mental health.

Whether you’re managing anxiety, navigating trauma, dealing with burnout, or just trying to figure out what’s next, therapy should be a space where you feel safe to be your full self. That’s the standard I hold myself to.

Offering Space to Start the Conversation

To support those who may be considering therapy for the first time, I’m offering a free 15-minute consultation through the end of July. This gives you a chance to ask questions, learn a little about how we work, and see if we’re a good fit. There’s no pressure—just space to talk.

On you become our client, sessions are available in-person at my office in downtown McKinney or virtually for clients anywhere in Texas, including Plano, Frisco, Allen, Princeton and other nearby communities.

Mental Health Should Be Accessible

If you’ve been thinking about therapy and haven’t found the right time, consider this an invitation. Whether you're part of a BIPOC community or simply looking for a therapist who understands how life intersects with identity, I’m here to help.

You don’t have to navigate everything alone. And you don’t have to figure it all out before reaching out. Sometimes the first step is just starting the conversation.