Derek Novacek, PhD

Only about 4 percent of U.S. psychologists are Black (APA, 2022), yet the demand is extraordinary. Black adults with major depression are half as likely as white adults to receive treatment, and Black youth suicide rates have doubled since 2007. Psychologists are doctoral-level providers who specialize in evidence-based therapy (CBT, DBT, EMDR), psychological testing, and neuropsychological evaluation. They do not prescribe medication. If you need meds, they partner with a psychiatrist or PCP.

Common reasons to see a psychologist

• Depression, anxiety, panic disorder
• Complex trauma, childhood trauma, racial trauma
• Relationship and attachment patterns
• ADHD evaluation (formal neuropsych testing)
• Learning disability evaluation
• Grief, burnout, and identity work

When to book

• Months of low mood, loss of interest, or sleep/appetite disruption
• Feeling stuck after prior therapy didn't work
• Need formal ADHD or learning disability testing for accommodations
• Racial trauma that previous therapists didn't understand

Advocacy prompts

• What therapy modality do you use, and why?
• How do you handle racial and cultural context in sessions?
• How long do you expect treatment to take for someone with my presentation?