By Melissa Matthews
Since March of 2020, we’ve been in a constant state of anxiety and grief. Naturally, you might be looking for mental health resources—or even online mental health resources—to help you cope. In the wake of the pandemic’s arrival, we’ve lost millions of people globally to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Some of us have experienced financial strain, worried about job security, or felt deeply concerned for someone we love whose livelihood was affected by the pandemic. Parents have taken on remote schooling for their kids. We’ve seen the harrowing disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on many communities of color. And, of course, we witnessed relentless acts of brutality and discrimination against people in marginalized communities, which led to more open conversations about movements like Black Lives Matter and Stop AAPI Hate. These traumas ignited conversations about mental health and, crucially, inequities in mental health care access that make it difficult for some people to get the care they may need.
“We know that people of color aren’t using psychological services at the same rate as white people, and they’re ending treatment earlier,” Christopher Liang, Ph.D., professor and chair of the counseling psychology program at Lehigh University, tells SELF. Additionally, research shows that cisgender straight people are more likely to seek mental health care compared with LGBTQ+ individuals. Accessibility, stigma, lack of diversity among therapists, and fear of discrimination are a few reasons people in marginalized communities might feel like therapy is unattainable for them. In 2015, 86% of therapists were white, and 90% of therapists identified as heterosexual, according to a survey of 5,325 psychologists conducted by the American Psychological Association. All of this adds up to a reality in which white cisgender straight people are more likely to seek, receive, and stick with mental health care.
Of course, you can have a really great therapist who doesn’t share some similarities with you. But speaking to a stranger about some pretty intimate experiences and feelings can feel really intimidating. For groups who have been the targets of discrimination, such as Black people and other communities of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and more, opening up to someone you think may understand certain cultural aspects or experiences could make it easier to start therapy, says Rita Chi-Ying Chung, Ph.D., professor emerita at George Mason University.
“You may find a therapist who is very understanding but it may not feel as safe a space for you,” Dr. Chung tells SELF. “It’s easier to walk through the door and see someone who looks like you.”
Everyone could use a little extra support processing their emotions and experiences after the year-plus we’ve had. However, over the past few years, there’s been an increase in discriminatory rhetoric toward people of various marginalized identities, like those in different communities of color and those who are LGBTQ+. So these groups, in particular, may benefit from finding mental health resources that align with their identities, says Dr. Chung.
To that end, we rounded up 101 online mental health resources that you may find useful depending on your identity and needs. The goal here is not to say that this list is a be-all, end-all—there are many more excellent resources in this realm beyond just those on this list. This is also not to say that only these groups of people are marginalized and deserving of increased mental health awareness and resources. Instead, this is meant to be a starting point for this much-needed conversation.
Another thing to note: Some of these resources are about finding a therapist, but not all.
“I think it’s important to use whatever helps in terms of de-escalating or decreasing your stress level,” Dr. Chung says. “We’re living in such volatile times. Utilize the resources that you can.”
That’s why you’ll find collectives, organizations, and people who have interesting mental wellness insights and strategies, in addition to traditional mental health practitioners and resources. We include resources for specific communities, since these groups may benefit from the comfort of connecting with others who share aspects of their identity, but also broader resources. We also realize that some of the popularized terms used to generally describe various communities may not be fully representative and that many people have intersecting identities on this list. We have tried to make each of the sections inclusive and helpful with that in mind.
Collectives, organizations, and people for communities of color
1. Mendü: This feed serves as a journaling companion for people of color, according to the account’s bio. In addition to tips and prompts to guide your journaling, Mendü offers virtual events that will help you think of journaling in new ways.
2. Ayana: This account hopes to erase stigma and eliminate barriers to finding mental health support. It does this by connecting people with culturally sensitive therapists on its website. On its IG feed, Ayana covers timely topics like self-care and activism, and what it means to be a culturally competent therapist.
3. Immigrant History Initiative: “We seek to educate and empower communities through the untold stories of immigrant diasporas in America,” says the group’s bio. It posts resources for undocumented immigrants, guides for talking about racism with children, and easy-to-understand lessons about immigration policies in the U.S.
4. Mixed in America: This community discusses common issues people from mixed cultural backgrounds experience. One recent post that nearly every multicultural person can relate to: How do you answer the question “What are you?” Follow for content that examines the unique position of growing up as a mixed-race person in America.
5. Daughter of an Immigrant: If you have parents who immigrated, you may relate to this account that celebrates that shared experience through memes, tweets, and personal stories. In addition to the relatable posts, the account sells clothing that proudly proclaims, “daughter of an immigrant.”
6. Jennifer Noble, Ph.D.: Noble calls herself a teen whisperer and parent coach for biracial kids. Head to this page for her posts exploring the nuanced experiences of raising biracial kids.
7. Jessica Jackson, Ph.D.: Jackson is a self-described culturally centered care advocate. On this feed you’ll find advice on caring for your own mental health as well as tips for helping your children manage racial stressors.
Asian collectives, organizations, and people to follow
8. Asians for Mental Health: Jenny Wang, Ph.D., manages this account to talk about mental health topics unique to the Asian community. You’ll find posts about discussing Asian American violence with your elders as well as validating messages for anyone who is the child of immigrants. You can also find a directory of Asian therapists at the Asians for Mental Health website if you are looking to work with someone.
9. Doodled Wellness: Come here for calming and relatable self-care doodles from Amy Tran, a clinical psychology doctorate student. Some recent posts covered how to talk to yourself with grace, signs that you may be invalidating your own feelings, and coping with racism.
10. Asian Mental Health Collective: Here you’ll find links to peer support groups, providers who offer reduced-fee therapy, and information about virtual events covering relevant topics, like mental health and politics.
11. Dear Asian Americans: This resource describes itself as a “podcast for and by Asian Americans, focusing on authentic storytelling rooted in origin, identity, and legacy.” Host Jerry Won speaks to Asian Americans from diverse backgrounds about their successes to help inspire listeners. You can learn more and listen to episodes on the Dear Asian Americans podcast website.
12. Asian Mental Health Project: This page provides support in dealing with some very difficult situations, like caring for aging immigrant parents and safety planning in light of the rise in anti-Asian hate crimes. You’ll also find advice for managing anxiety and prioritizing your mental health.
13. The Korean Vegan: You don’t have to be vegan to consume Joanne Molinaro’s cooking videos. Although you might come for the food, you’ll leave with life lessons on love, grief, and growing up Korean. If you grew up in an immigrant household or ever felt like you weren’t enough, then Molinaro’s stories may resonate with you.
14. Noona’s Noonchi: This account intersects “mental health and K-dramas through deep dives and reactions,” according to its Instagram bio. Jeanie Chang, licensed marriage and family therapist, uses storylines from Korean dramas to highlight how we can better communicate with the people we love.
15. Curly_Therapist: Managed by therapist Sana Powell, a South Asian licensed professional counselor, this feed offers so many useful tips for being kinder to yourself and others. You’ll find posts about navigating mental health stigma at home and why depression can be so numbing.
16. Chanel Miller: Miller is the author of Know My Name, a memoir recounting her sexual assault and healing process in the aftermath. The feed highlights Miller’s artwork along with her thoughts on processing racism, violence, the pandemic, and love.
17. Chinese American Voices: According to its Instagram bio, this account is about “finding community through our collective stories.” It posts regular thought-provoking questions such as, “What food reminds you of home?” The community can answer in the comments and connect with others who share similar cultural traditions.
18. Cathy Park Hong: Hong is the author of Minor Feelings, an autobiography exploring the shame she felt as a Korean American. Her insights in the book reflect the ways she felt pressured to be submissive, suppress her Korean identity, and ignore racism toward Asians. On her personal feed, Hong shares her thoughtful reflections on racism and amplifies other Asian authors.
19. Don’t Say Sorry: This podcast features “two Southeast Asian womxn talking about sex, relationships, and healing,” according to its Instagram bio. Episodes like “Don’t Apologize for Orgasming” aim to take the shame and guilt out of what some may consider taboo topics.
20. The Mind Health Spot: If you ever discount your own challenges, then head to this account managed by Laura Lu, a graduate student studying clinical psychology. Here you’ll find posts reassuring you that “your struggles are valid, even if someone else has it worse.” She also posts insight about dealing with racial trauma, impostor syndrome, and more.
21. South Asian Mental Health: The organization offers a directory of South Asian therapists for anyone who wants to work with a professional mental health practitioner. On the feed, you’ll find mental health insight geared toward the South Asian community as well as tips for getting the most out of your therapy sessions.
22. Ivy Kwong, LMFT: The posts from Kwong, a therapist and author, revolve around self-love, boundaries, and decolonizing mental health. This feed includes a mix of personal stories, news, and information on mental health events.
23. Vania Manipod, D.O.: Dr. Manipod, a psychiatrist, wants to motivate you to “take charge of your well-being,” according to her Instagram bio. She offers tips for things like managing anxiety and burnout, which many of us can relate to.
Black collectives, organizations, and people to follow
Last year we published this list of 44 mental health resources for Black folks. Below you’ll find a condensed version of that list highlighting groups and people with new projects or resources.
24. Alishia McCullough, LCMHCA, NCC: McCullough emphasizes accepting your body and rejecting fatphobia on her Instagram account. Earlier this year McCullough began working with Sage and Spoon, to lead a peer support group for Black people who want to improve their relationships with food and their body. (Sage and Spoon offers a second support group for this that is open to all individuals of color who are 18 and older.)
25. Therapy for Black Girls: The popular resource for finding diverse and inclusive mental health providers also has an Instagram feed and weekly podcast covering topics such as dating, COVID-19 vaccinations, and intimate-partner violence. Therapy for Black Girls recently launched the TBG Sister Circle, a paid community that includes exclusive events and networking opportunities with members in your area. The Sister Circle starts at $10 a month.
26. Mariel Buquè, Ph.D.: Follow along for self-care tips to help you through really heavy weeks, insight into intergenerational trauma, and periodic soul checks that prompt you to think about how you’re really doing. This year Buquè started posting free sound-bath meditations on her Instagram page so you can practice meditation with her.
27. Morgan Harper Nichols: On Nichols’s feed you’ll find powerful messages like “You are worth no less when you look or feel different” on beautifully designed backgrounds. Earlier this year she published her gorgeous book, How Far You Have Come. Nichols also shares how her autism diagnosis has affected her emotionally, which can go a long way toward helping others feel less alone.
28. Nedra Glover Tawwab, MSW, LCSW: Setting boundaries in your work and personal relationships can be really difficult. Tawwab, a licensed clinical social worker and “boundaries expert,” offers reassurance that firm boundaries are essential for your mental health—and she offers guidance on how to set them. For more in-depth help with setting boundaries, you can read Tawwab’s latest book, Set Boundaries, Find Peace.
29. The Loveland Foundation: This much-loved resource, founded by writer, lecturer, and activist Rachel Elizabeth Cargle, is continuing with its Therapy Fund to increase Black women and girls’ access to affordable therapy. But they’re also expanding their mental wellness efforts, like with their just-launched podcast, The Unfolding presented by The Loveland Foundation, which aims to help listeners “prioritize community, compassion, and responsibility.”
30. Cleo Wade: Wade offers inspirational reminders and life lessons in her books Heart Talk and Where to Begin: A Small Book About Your Power to Create Big Change in Our Crazy World. With her newest children’s book, What the Road Said, Wade shares her poetic touch and uplifting messages with young ones.
31. Black Female Therapists: This feed is loaded with affirmations and information about virtual events like meditations; plus, it showcases Black mental health practitioners across the U.S. It’ll send affirmations straight to your phone if you sign up for its text messaging at BlackFemaleTherapists.com. One weekly text is free, or you can pay $2 a month for daily texts. What’s more, the team is launching Black Male Therapists this month, according to its Instagram.
32. Black Girl in Om: This community envisions “a world where womxn of color are liberated, empowered, and seen.” The brand offers virtual events and discussions and was actually planning to create a physical space in Minneapolis with apothecary and wellness classes. While that plan appears to be on pause, the team is diverting funds raised through that GoFundMe to creating a trauma-informed care program, among other efforts.
33. Black Mental Wellness: This organization was founded by Black mental health professionals, and you’ll find plenty of mental health insight on this Instagram feed. Recent highlights include affirmations for Black people, tips for self-care, and spotlights on Black mental health practitioners. The group has also teamed up with Moodfit, an app that aims to improve your mood through breathing exercises, guided meditations, a gratitude journal, and more.
34. Brown Girl Self-Care: The group proclaims, “Self-preservation is resistance,” on its Instagram bio and helps you practice this by offering affirmations and tips to care for your mental health. If you’d prefer to start a tech-free affirmation practice while making your space a bit more soothing, Brown Girl Self-Care released a line of affirmation candles that may be up your alley.
35. Heal Haus: This Brooklyn-based wellness space expanded its online classes after temporarily closing due to the pandemic. On the brand’s Instagram, you’ll find information about its upcoming classes and workshops, including different types of yoga, along with breath work, tarot, and more.
36. The Nap Ministry: It’s far too easy to keep going without taking a break. The Nap Ministry reminds followers that “rest is a form of resistance.” To practice what it preaches, the account took a two-month sabbatical starting on March 1. On May 1, the account resumed posting and broke the news that founder Tricia Hersey will publish two books next year: the manifesto Rest Is Resistance and the meditative gift book We Will Rest. And more recently it shared plans to launch a sound installation and collective daydreaming activation in Atlanta.
37. Sista Afya: A Chicago-based organization, Sista Afya connects Black people to affordable and accessible mental health services, like free or reduced-fee therapy. In November, the organization will host a free virtual Black Mental Wellness Weekend specifically for Black mental health practitioners.
Indigenous collectives, organizations, and people to follow
38. Indigenous Circle of Wellness: Operated by a Native-owned practice in California, this feed posts information about virtual mental health events facilitated by Indigenous mental health practitioners. Events cover a wide range of topics, including community wellness, intimate-partner violence in the Indigenous community, and parenting.
39. Michelle Chubb, Indigenous Baddie: Chubb is Nehinaw with ties in treaty 1 (each treaty number signifies an agreement between Canada and the First Nations included in that agreement) who posts about social justice issues like the Land Back movement and dancing powwow. And the 23-year-old doesn’t shy away from sharing painful experiences dealing with racism, which other Indigenous people may relate to.
40. Shayla Oulette Stonechild: Stonechild, who is Mètis and Nehiyaw Iskwew, according to her website, posts powerful messages discussing Indigenous erasure in Canada, where she lives. She also encourages followers to honor their ancestors, rest, and take up space, and shares how she learned to celebrate her Indigenous culture.
41. Matriarch Movement: This podcast was created by Stonechild, but the Instagram feed focuses on celebrating other Indigenous people. Matriarch Movement is working on “amplifying Indigenous womxn’s voices through story, meditation, movement, and medicine.” Visit the Matriarch Movement website to listen to the episodes and hear some inspiring stories or to take a guided breathing class.
42. Diné Aesthetics: Run by Charlie/Amáyá who describes themself as “Indigenous and trans-femme w/ great hair,” the account inspires joy and justice. On the feed you’ll find posts about being kind to yourself, links to other trans and Indigenous accounts, and cultural information about the Diné nation (the name people from the Navajo Nation widely prefer to call themselves).
43. Seeding Sovereignty: This Indigenous-led collective believes in “acting in kinship and building community, like our grandparents taught us to.” The organization hosts regular events tackling a variety of topics around identity, colonization, and environmentalism. You’ll also find posts that offer helpful reminders to “unclench your jaw and move your body,” because it’s so easy to forget that these days.
44. All My Relations podcast: This project describes itself as “a podcast to discuss our relationships as Native peoples—to land, ancestors, and each other.” Hosted by photographer Matika Wilbur, sociologist Desi Small-Rodriguez, Ph.D., and assistant professor at Brown Adrienne Keene, Ed.D, each episode explores a topic revolving around Indigenous people, from traditional birthing ceremonies to speaking out against Native team mascots. The feed includes recaps of episodes on beautifully illustrated backgrounds.
45. Rising Hearts: Founded by runner Jordan Marie Daniel, the organization hopes to provide an accessible wellness community where Indigenous people feel accepted. They do this by offering donation-based virtual sessions led by Indigenous wellness instructors, allies, and advocates. Classes vary in practice and include yoga, breath work, and safety planning. Follow Daniel’s personal page, Nativein_LA, for gorgeous photos of Daniel running on the Tongva land in California. Accompanying the photos is Daniel’s insight about navigating through moments of anxiety and joy.
46. Native Wellness Institute: According to its Instagram bio, “NWI exists to promote the well-being of Native people through programs and trainings that embrace the teachings and traditions of our ancestors.” The organization’s website is filled with wellness resources for Native people. And every day on their Facebook page, the institute hosts a Power Hour on Facebook Live during which Native people share uplifting messages and tips for navigating this uneasy time. Recent Power Hours discussed parenting babies and toddlers, managing anxiety, and dealing with grief.
47. Rosales Meza, Ph.D.: Meza received her doctorate in counseling psychology but explains she isn’t a licensed practitioner because she wanted to work free from traditional colonial institutions, according to her website. On her feed Indigenous people will find inspiring messages encouraging them to embrace their ancestral strength.
48. St. Paul Therapy: This Minnesota-based practice was founded by Stephanie Jensen, an Indigenous and Latinx licensed clinical social worker. Hit the “follow” button for some very useful mental health insight, like how to deal with self-destructive behaviors or impostor syndrome.
49. Well for Culture: A self-described “Indigenous wellness initiative,” this organization studies and shares the teachings of various Indigenous communities in relation to health. It does this by implementing what it calls the 7 Circles of Wellness, which explores how food, movement, sleep, community, your connection to the earth, sacred spaces, and peace can affect your health. The collective has also produced Well for Culture podcast episodes.
50. Vaelupe Ma’aele, LMFT: Licensed marriage and family therapist Ma’aele recently launched her practice in California and Utah, but she shares her mental health insights with people all over the world on her feed. Although her page is still growing, you can already find insights about how group therapy works and tips for finding a therapist.
51. Native WYSE Choices: This group is a project from the Colorado School of Public Health to expand mental health access to American Indian and Alaska Native Health, according to the group’s website. On Instagram you’ll find links to Indigenous musicians, authors, and businesses that may create work or products you identify with.
Latinx collectives, organizations, and people to follow
52. Latinx Therapists Network: This organization works to destigmatize mental health in the Latinx community through its feed and bilingual podcast, Latinx Therapy. Episodes cover a wide range of topics, from acting as the English translator in your family to healing after sexual trauma. It also offers a directory of Latinx therapists for people who want to find someone to speak with.
53. Yesenia Dominguez, LCSW: A licensed clinical social worker practicing in California, Dominguez calls herself a “Latina trauma therapist.” This feed offers practical tips for managing conflict. A few recent helpful posts talk about starting difficult conversations and how exactly to form “I” statements.
54. Kim Guerra, MFT: Marriage and family therapist Guerra runs the popular Brown Badass Bonita account. In her posts Guerra encourages mariposas (butterflies in Spanish) to “give themselves wings” and to own their power. In addition to positive affirmations, Guerra posts about sexuality, liberation, relationships, and self-acceptance.
55. Marcela Sabiá: A Brazilian illustrator, Sabiá offers words of affirmation, love, and reassurance posted with her artwork. Follow along to read her posts about anxiety, body acceptance, and uplifting others.
56. Latinx Grief: Created by Paulina Isabel Almarosa, a licensed clinical social worker and counselor, this feed offers “grief support and education via storytelling.” During a very painful time, this resource may help you process some difficult feelings. As a second-generation Mexican American, Almarosa pays special attention to the particular forms of grief experienced in immigrant communities.
57. Contigo Wellness: This organization hopes to provide “equity and access to mental health education and care to underrepresented Latinx individuals and decrease mental health stigma.” They do this by posting inspirational messages and resources in English and Spanish.
58. Latinx Parenting: Focused on social justice and intergenerational healing for Latinx families, this account gives parents validation and resources to break harmful generational cycles. The feed includes information on virtual parenting events and news for the Latinx community.
59. Therapyforlatinx: This brand wants to make it easy for Latinx individuals to connect with a Latinx mental health professional. You can find a therapist using its directory or browse its feed for valuable and relatable mental health insights.
60. Maria Laguna, LCSW: Laguna is a bilingual English- and Spanish-speaking psychotherapist. This feed includes a mix of mental health resources, inspirational quotes, and reminders to care for yourself and to “use your PTO.”
61. Nalgona Positivity Pride: This account takes aim at diet culture, raises awareness about eating disorders, and encourages body liberation with bright and beautiful imagery. The brand also sells merchandise on Etsy with messages like, “Eating disorders are a social justice issue” and “F**k diet culture.”
62. Latina to Latina: Each Monday this podcast brings a weekly dose of “Latina greatness,” according to its Instagram bio. In every episode, host Alicia Menendez talks to a new guest about the challenges of existing and thriving as Latinas. You’ll hear from a variety of people, including editors, medical professionals, farmers, and chefs.
63. Jacqueline Mendez, LMFT: Mendez is a licensed marriage and family therapist as well as a certified sex therapist, according to her website. Her Instagram feed includes insights on sexual health, relationships, and validating your emotions.
64. Eliza Boquin, M.A., LMFT: According to her bio, Boquin is a psychotherapist and sex therapist who is committed to supporting Black and brown people. Her thoughtful posts touch on social justice, sex, grief, and self-love.
65. Poderistas: A poderista is someone who “elevates, amplifies, and builds power through their actions and by harnessing the power of the collective,” according to the brand. This feed showcases poderistas in a variety of industries, posts positive affirmations, and provides information about virtual wellness events.
LGBTQ+ collectives, organizations, and people to follow
66. Queer Sex Therapy: This account from Casey Tanner, licensed clinical professional counselor, provides sex-positive insight on soothing, colorful backgrounds. She also poses thoughtful questions to the community and offers templates to help you be more mindful about your own sexuality.
67. The Trevor Project: This account was created by the producers of Trevor, a short film about a gay teen during the 1980s who contemplates suicide. The organization provides immediate mental health support to LGBTQ+ youth by phone, text, or online messaging through The Trevor Project website. On this feed you’ll find supportive messages, like “You are worth it” alongside happy and vibrant illustrations.
68. Transgender District: This account is dedicated to The Transgender District, the first legally recognized transgender district in the world. Located in San Francisco, the district encompasses six blocks of the southeastern Tenderloin area, parts of Market Street, and two blocks of 6th Street. Parts of this district have been renamed after transgender people who have contributed to furthering transgender rights. The Instagram feed celebrates transgender people and shares their stories and achievements. In addition, there are inspirational posts and information about virtual events for the trans community.
69. Mentally LGBTQ: “You’re safe here,” the account proclaims on its bio. The feed is made up of an assortment of Twitter posts, memes, infographics, and reaffirming posts for the LGBTQ+ community.
70. Make Daisy Chains: Self-described queer artist Hannah Daisy posts her beautiful illustrations depicting LGBTQ+ love on this account. You’ll also find advice for practicing what Daisy calls “boring self-care,” which can include just getting out of bed or surviving a day at work.
71. It Gets Better Project: This community’s mission is to “uplift, empower, and connect LGBTQ+ youth around the globe.” They do this by sharing videos of inspiring LGBTQ+ individuals, tips to care for your mental health, and positive quotes.
72. Trans Lash: According to its bio, “#TransLash tells trans stories to save trans lives.” Journalist Imara Jones hosts this podcast and discusses important matters in the trans community as well as how we can all work together to create a fairer world. On the feed you’ll find a variety of virtual events, news, and information about the episodes.
73. Gender Spectrum: The organization looks forward to a “gender-inclusive world for all youth.” This feed posts about critical LGBTQ+ topics like gender-inclusive health care and why it’s important to use people’s correct pronouns—and tips for doing that. This is an informational resource for both LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.
74. Liberal Jane: Follow this page to glimpse queer feminist artist Caitlin Blunnie’s stunning illustrations celebrating people of all identities. Each image boasts a message, some of which are inspirational (“Don’t burn out, super star”), while others are strong, reassuring assertions (“Poverty is not a personal failure”).
75. Hello My Name Is Wednesday: Queer illustrator Wednesday Holmes describes their art as a “calming massage for your eyeballs.” The colorful cartoons include a mix of cheerful messages like “I’m cute” to affirmations such as “I am strong” and reminders to take care of yourself by drinking water.
76. Pink Mantaray: Swimmer Schuyler Bailar is the first trans D1 NCAA men’s athlete. His feed is filled with informative and reassuring messages, like: “Being transphobic is a choice. Being transgender is not.”
77. NYC Affirmative Psychotherapy: This New York City–based practice offers sliding-scale psychotherapy to queer communities of color, according to its bio. Each post on this feed offers a thought-provoking message set among one of the colors from the LGBTQ+ Pride flag.
78. Alex Jenny, LCSW: Jenny, a licensed clinical social worker, calls herself The Drag Therapist. Her feed is an eclectic mix of mental health information, gorgeous photographs, and reflections on her Asian identity.
79. Lucia Bennett, LPC: Bennett is a queer mental health professional who specializes in working with people who have eating disorders. Her encouraging, body-positive posts are featured on beautiful nature photos. Follow along for calming imagery and self-affirming messages.
Arab, Middle Eastern, and Muslim collectives, organizations, and people to follow
80. Muslim Association for Psychological Services (MAPS): This organization aims to end mental health stigma in the Muslim community. On the MAPS website, you can find a directory of Muslim therapists if you’re looking to work with a counselor. On Instagram, the organization includes reminders to practice self-care, offers contact information for Muslim mental health practitioners, and provides a grief support toolkit for anyone who needs it.
81. Huma Saeedi, MSC, M.A.: Saeedi is a Muslim psychotherapist practicing in Canada. Her feed provides guidance on working through trauma and anxiety in addition to Islam-specific topics, such as ways that Ramadan can trigger anxiety.
82. Hina Mirza, M.A.: Mirza is an Ontario-based psychotherapist who wants to help people make meaningful changes, according to her bio. The mental health practitioner hosts a Therapy Thursday series during which she posts videos discussing various topics like forgiveness, anger management, and mood regulation.
83. Arab-American Family Support Center: This New York–based organization provides social services to all immigrant families, according to its Instagram bio. It does this by offering services like a healthy relationships education curriculum for families, virtual mental health counseling sessions in Arabic and English, and virtual U.S. citizenship readiness classes. On its feed you’ll find updates about virtual seminars and more.
84. Sarah Bahbah: Bahbah is an artist who shares her experiences as a Palestinian woman through photographs. Her project, Fool Me Twice, explores the complicated dynamics between anxious and avoidant attachment relationship types.
85. Randa Jarrar: Jarrar writes about life as a queer Arab American in her memoir, Love Is an Ex-Country. Her feed is a mix of empowering messages touching on body positivity, self-doubt, and self-love.
86. Seham Kafafi: A Middle Eastern American mindfulness teacher based in Texas, Kafafi shares posts about how we can all be more present with ourselves and others. For example, she offers tips for being mindful when listening to friends, practicing self-care, or managing stress.
87. Amar Husain, LMHC: As a licensed mental health counselor, Husain posts about dealing with ancestral trauma as well as depression and anxiety. On her feed you’ll find mental health insight that may help you better understand and communicate with yourself and with loved ones.
88. The LightHouse Arabia: Cofounded by Saliha Afridi, Psy.D., and Tara Wyne, D.Clin.Psy., this Dubai-based organization aims to “make the [United Arab Emirates] happier and healthier.” Its feed offers a soothing mix of affirmations, support group updates, and more. Additionally, through its Raymee Grief Center, The LightHouse Arabia offers free grief support services to anyone living in the UAE.
89. Yalla! Let’s Talk: This account aims to “capture the voices of real Arab millennials and Gen Z.” On its page you’ll find advice about how to be an Arab LGBTQ+ ally, reminders to surround yourself with people who accept you, and posts about mental health (in addition to memes and videos).
90. Ally Salama: Salama is the founder of EMPWR, a magazine dedicated to mental health in the Middle East. On his Instagram, where some posts are written in English and Arabic, Salama talks about his own mental health and discusses topics like body-shaming in Arab culture or how fasting can affect mental health.
91. Sarah Sultan, LPC, LMHC: Sultan is a therapist who says she’s “passionate about Islam, growth, healing, and contentment” in her bio. This feed includes posts melding faith and mental health by covering topics like the effects of trauma on your faith. You can also find grounding exercises and tips for managing anxiety, which are undoubtedly useful right now.
Even more mental health collectives, organizations, and people to follow
92. Lisa Olivera: Follow writer Olivera’s feed for thoughtful posts that inspire you to live authentically. Reassuring posts like, “It’s okay to hold multiple feelings about one thing or experience,” may boost your confidence whenever you doubt yourself.
93. Allyson Dinneen, M.Ed.: Dinneen runs the popular Notes From Your Therapist Instagram account, where she shares handwritten insights. You’ll find wisdom on relationships, anxiety, self-love, and more. She also published a book, Notes From Your Therapist, with the same advice.
94. I Go to Therapy: The account wants to destigmatize therapy for everyone. If you go to therapy or are interested in going to therapy, you’ll find information to assist you in your endeavors. (One particularly helpful post explains what to do if you don’t think therapy is working for you.)
95. Jaime Castillo, LCSW: Castillo runs the Instagram account for Arizona-based Find Your Shine Therapy, a practice of mental health practitioners specializing in trauma and anxiety. Its feed offers numerous sample scripts you can use when setting boundaries on dates, at work, or with loved ones.
96. We’re Not Really Strangers: “WARNING: Feelings may arise!!!” cautions the Instagram bio for this illuminating card game aimed at helping people connect on a deeper level. The brand’s Instagram feed features similarly thoughtful prompts that you can use to learn more about yourself and the people in your life.
97. People I’ve Loved: This account showcases “art, objects, and other things to help you feel a little less alone” according to its Instagram bio. The posts feature art by Carissa Potter Carlson paired with uplifting thoughts, observations, and notes that reflect how complicated and confusing it is to be human.
98. The Body Love Society: If you’re struggling with body image or eating concerns, it can be helpful to surround yourself with messages about body acceptance and being anti-diet. This account, which also produces the How to Love Your Body podcast, offers refreshing reminders that can help to counteract the limiting beliefs that diet culture perpetuates.
99. The Gottman Institute: If you’re looking to communicate more effectively with a partner or just want to better understand your romantic relationships, this account may provide some guidance. The Gottman Method is one approach to couple’s counseling that begins with a thorough assessment of the pair’s relationship, and this account posts about working through relationship challenges, such as parenting, disagreements, and money problems.
100. Terrible, Thanks for Asking: When someone asks how you’re doing, it’s easy to just say, “Fine, thanks,” even when you’re not at all okay. Host Nora McInerny asks people to share how they really feel in this honest podcast. On this feed you’ll find highlights from each episode.
101. Just Between Us: The Just Between Us podcast openly discusses a variety of subjects that historically have been stigmatized, such as sex and mental health. The show’s Instagram feed provides recaps and previews of shows, in addition to prompts that ask for your feedback and questions to be included in future shows. Recent podcast topics include what to do if you can’t afford therapy and using psychiatric medication.
And a few tips for seeking therapy
Online mental health resources you can engage in certainly have their place. But sometimes that’s not enough. If you decide that you’d like to work with a therapist, know that it is a really courageous step. If you have insurance, then you may want to start by contacting your insurance provider for a list of mental health practitioners licensed in your state. If you don’t have insurance, you can try to find counselors who offer sliding-scale or reduced-fee sessions by using websites like Open Path. (Here’s more information about how to find accessible and affordable mental health care.)
Once you’ve pinpointed some possible therapists, finding someone that you connect with and feel comfortable with may take some time, says Dr. Liang. He recommends asking to schedule a 15-minute consultation to learn more about their approach and background. If you’re looking for a therapist who is culturally sensitive, you may want to ask about their experience working with people who share your identity.
It’s rare that you’ll find a therapist who perfectly matches your culture and identity, says Dr. Chung. It’s also not necessarily a requirement for a good fit. But it’s important to find someone you can speak with openly and who is flexible in adapting their approach to suit your needs. Getting started with therapy can feel really intimidating, but taking this big step can be a great way to care for yourself.
