Using data from the National Survey of Black Americans, this paper explores the role of African American ministers in the help seeking of African Americans for serious emotional problems. Four research questions are addressed. First we ask what demographic characteristics and psychosocial factors are related to contacting Black clergy for help. Second, we explore whether certain types of personal problems increase the likelihood of clergy contact. Third, the paper asks whether those who go to ministers are also likely to seek help from other professional help sources. Finally, the paper describes the specific types of help offered by ministers and whether help seekers are satisfied with that help. Results indicate that women are more likely than men to seek help from ministers. People with economic problems are less likely to contact clergy while those with death or bereavement problems are more likely to seek help from the clergy. Regardless of the type or severity of the problem, those who contact clergy first are less likely to seek help from other professionals. This pattern is especially true for death, illness, and emotional adjustment problems. The most common type of help offered by ministers is related to religious activities and socio-emotional support. The results are understood within the context of multiple, sometimes conflicting, professional conceptualizations of appropriate interventions for emotional pain and problematic behavior. It is recommended that African American clergy and mental health professionals engage in a mutual exchange of information in order to increase a ccess to professional care among African Americans with serious personal problems. Future research directions for public mental health education are outlined.