Throughout my career, I've become steeped in cultural competency. This means I have intimate knowledge of the cultures my client presents, from the many diverse cultures of the African diaspora to the unique Chinese and Mexican cultural celebrations of life and death.


I've assisted first-generation clients from immigrant families in navigating the values of their families as they develop in an outer world that is very different from their parents' experiences. Many traditional cultures honor the family's needs, not the individual's. This can create interpersonal conflicts that impede self-development in relationships and work settings.


It is the therapist's role to educate themselves about the cultures they serve. I have been truly blessed to have a diverse clientele that has introduced me to the reality of global pain. 


Of course, as an African American, my knowledge of the African diaspora is intimate. Traveling from countries like Ghana, Nigeria, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic, I've learned the nuances of different cultures, personally and up close. This knowledge allows my clients a comfortable, nonjudgmental environment where they feel understood and seen.

Throughout my career, I've become steeped in cultural competency. This means I have intimate knowledge of the cultures my client presents, from the many diverse cultures of the African diaspora to the unique Chinese and Mexican cultural celebrations of life and death.


I've assisted first-generation clients from immigrant families in navigating the values of their families as they develop in an outer world that is very different from their parents' experiences. Many traditional cultures honor the family's needs, not the individual's. This can create interpersonal conflicts that impede self-development in relationships and work settings.


 It is the therapist's role to educate themselves about the cultures they serve. I have been truly blessed to have a diverse clientele that has introduced me to the reality of global pain. 


Of course, as an African American, my knowledge of the African diaspora is intimate. Traveling from countries like Ghana, Nigeria, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic, I've learned the nuances of different cultures, personally and up close. This knowledge allows my clients a comfortable, nonjudgmental environment where they feel understood and seen.

About Therapy Works BX

Founded in 2012 by Shirley Taylor Dunn, Therapy Works BX was built to address the urgent need for culturally competent mental health care in underserved communities. After nearly three decades in the mental health and addiction treatment fields, Shirley launched the practice to offer high-quality, personalized care in the Bronx. As a licensed psychotherapist, she developed a space in New York where individuals, especially women of color, families, and adolescents, could begin meaningful healing in a safe environment.


At Therapy Works BX, Shirley aims to treat the whole person, mind, body, and soul, using holistic practices that honor each client’s background and lived experience. She proudly serves BIPOC clients seeking a trusted and licensed psychotherapist in New York with the insight and expertise to guide real transformation.

My Mission

My mission is to provide culturally responsive psychotherapy that acknowledges and respects cultural differences, empowering clients to improve their mental and emotional well-being.

Woman smiling during a counseling session. She is sitting on a sofa and looking at the counselor, who holds a clipboard.
Woman smiling during a counseling session. She is sitting on a sofa and looking at the counselor, who holds a clipboard.

I’m Shirley Taylor Dunn, Ph.D., ABD, LCSW-R, CSAC, and the founder of Therapy Works BX. My journey from a challenging family environment to healing through therapy shaped my life’s purpose and professional path. With over 30 years of experience as a licensed psychotherapist in New York, I’ve developed programs for adolescents, mothers, and families that address trauma and recovery through both traditional and alternative methods.


As a licensed psychotherapist, I integrate mindfulness, Reiki, EFT, cognitive behavioral, and psychodynamic therapy to help clients process their experiences and reclaim their strength. I am especially passionate about serving BIPOC communities, where culturally responsive treatment is not just necessary, it’s essential.

Read My Guide to Culturally Responsive Therapy

Discover the immense value of understanding cultural nuances in mental health care. My guide offers insights into providing effective therapy in New York's diverse communities.

READ MY GUIDE NOW

Why Choose Therapy Works BX?

As a licensed psychotherapist deeply committed to BIPOC healing in New York, I offer an approach that is intuitive, inclusive, and clinically grounded. Clients receive individualized care from a licensed psychotherapist in New York who blends evidence-based methods with holistic tools.


At Therapy Works BX, I don’t just treat symptoms—I nurture deep, lasting change.

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"Therapy Works BX has been a game-changer for me. Their culturally sensitive approach made me feel understood and valued."

- MARIA, BRONX

"I love the flexibility and affordability of their therapy options. It fits perfectly with my schedule and budget."

- JAMES. MANHATTAN


"The therapists at Therapy Works BX truly create a safe space for healing. I feel comfortable and supported in every session."

- AISHA, BROOKLYN

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