Joy Harden Bradford, Ph.D.

Joy Harden Bradford, Ph.D., is a prominent African American clinical psychologist and the founder of Therapy for Black Girls, LLC, a mental health platform dedicated to addressing the unique mental health needs of Black women and girls. Born in 1979 and raised in Paincourtville, Louisiana, she pursued her education at Xavier University of Louisiana for her bachelor's degree, followed by a master's in vocational rehabilitation counseling from Arkansas State University, and a Ph.D. in counseling psychology from the University of Georgia.12

Career and Contributions

Dr. Harden Bradford established Therapy for Black Girls in 2014 to create an accessible space for discussing mental health issues relevant to Black women. The platform includes a popular podcast that has garnered millions of downloads, addressing various topics from personal development to navigating relationships.14 She emphasizes culturally competent practices in her work and aims to destigmatize therapy within the Black community.23

In addition to her podcast, she has developed a therapist directory specifically for Black women, recognizing the demand for culturally responsive mental health resources.14 Her work has earned her several accolades, including awards for her podcast from the Webby Awards and the NAACP Image Awards.12

Personal Philosophy

Dr. Harden Bradford advocates for community care and self-care as vital components of mental health. She believes in normalizing therapy and prioritizing mental wellness among Black women, often discussing the impact of social media and lifestyle choices on mental health.34 Her approach combines professional expertise with personal experiences, making her insights relatable and impactful.

Current Focus

As of now, Dr. Harden Bradford continues to lead Therapy for Black Girls while engaging with broader audiences through speaking engagements and media contributions. She remains committed to fostering discussions around mental wellness and providing resources that empower Black women to prioritize their mental health.235