Photo of Basmah Ahmed, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Stoney Creek, ON
Basmah Ahmed
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
Stoney Creek, ON L8E  (Online Only)
I'm so glad you're here. Whatever the reason is, I want you to know that I understand how overwhelming it can be to come therapy even if you know you “need” it. As a therapist I work from a supportive and strengths-focused lens, working with you at your pace. I work within a model of Internal Family Systems which means that I believe that all of your parts are valuable pieces of your internal system. Working with me means we will not only go deep together, but we will also laugh, explore joy and strengths because these are just as important as exploring our patterns and things we want to change.
I'm so glad you're here. Whatever the reason is, I want you to know that I understand how overwhelming it can be to come therapy even if you know you “need” it. As a therapist I work from a supportive and strengths-focused lens, working with you at your pace. I work within a model of Internal Family Systems which means that I believe that all of your parts are valuable pieces of your internal system. Working with me means we will not only go deep together, but we will also laugh, explore joy and strengths because these are just as important as exploring our patterns and things we want to change.
(289) 275-4681 View (289) 275-4681
Photo of Zarin Hakim-Griffith, Registered Psychotherapist in Stoney Creek, ON
Zarin Hakim-Griffith
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stoney Creek, ON L8G  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Does it feel like you are alone in your struggles? That it feels like finding connection and self-awareness is not possible? As a BIPOC and neurodivergent therapist, I understand the common challenges faced by marginalized communities. I recognize the significance of cultural humility in fostering an environment where you can be your authentic self. With a background focused on trauma, depression, anxiety, communication skills, relationship conflicts, and cultural/identity struggles, I am here to guide you through your therapeutic journey and growth.
Does it feel like you are alone in your struggles? That it feels like finding connection and self-awareness is not possible? As a BIPOC and neurodivergent therapist, I understand the common challenges faced by marginalized communities. I recognize the significance of cultural humility in fostering an environment where you can be your authentic self. With a background focused on trauma, depression, anxiety, communication skills, relationship conflicts, and cultural/identity struggles, I am here to guide you through your therapeutic journey and growth.
(365) 305-0350 View (365) 305-0350

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Uzma Hassan, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Stoney Creek, ON
Uzma Hassan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8S  (Online Only)
Are you seeking support for emotional dysregulation such as anxiety or depression? Trouble controlling your anger? Feeling invisible in your relationship? Or acclimating to a new culture. Therapy can be a safe, secure, and comfortable space where you can open up and we can process what's bringing you down. Let me offer you my experience and support to help bring calmness and clarity to your troubled mind. Also, as an immigrant with roots in South Asia, I can support managing the stress of acculturation and issues you might be experiencing due to stigma and taboos related to mental health within your culture.
Are you seeking support for emotional dysregulation such as anxiety or depression? Trouble controlling your anger? Feeling invisible in your relationship? Or acclimating to a new culture. Therapy can be a safe, secure, and comfortable space where you can open up and we can process what's bringing you down. Let me offer you my experience and support to help bring calmness and clarity to your troubled mind. Also, as an immigrant with roots in South Asia, I can support managing the stress of acculturation and issues you might be experiencing due to stigma and taboos related to mental health within your culture.
(365) 654-3361 View (365) 654-3361
Photo of Andrew Youssef (Phd Candidate), Pastoral Counsellor in Stoney Creek, ON
Andrew Youssef (Phd Candidate)
Pastoral Counsellor, MTS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8N
**See our website for other therapists accepting new clients** I am mental health therapist as well as a multi-faith spiritual and religious care provider (also known as a chaplain). My strength is working with anyone's faith and spirituality to help them with their mental health and spiritual journey. I work with all faiths and religious. In my practice, I see each client as a complex and unique person with stories, worldviews, and challenges. My goal is to aid you in accessing your inner resources such as the experiences you cultivate from your stories and the beliefs that find root in your worldviews to cope with challenges.
**See our website for other therapists accepting new clients** I am mental health therapist as well as a multi-faith spiritual and religious care provider (also known as a chaplain). My strength is working with anyone's faith and spirituality to help them with their mental health and spiritual journey. I work with all faiths and religious. In my practice, I see each client as a complex and unique person with stories, worldviews, and challenges. My goal is to aid you in accessing your inner resources such as the experiences you cultivate from your stories and the beliefs that find root in your worldviews to cope with challenges.
(289) 207-6729 View (289) 207-6729
Photo of Charmin Charania, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Stoney Creek, ON
Charmin Charania
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8R  (Online Only)
Is it hard keeping up with life's demands? Are you feeling stuck? I know this is a difficult and you may be feeling uncertain whether change is possible and if therapy is the right move for you. It's hard managing everything on your own, and I want you to know that you don't have to go through it alone, I am here to help. I take on a client-centred approach that is integrative of other therapies, so I can follow your lead and individualize care to fit your needs. This is your journey and you are the true expert of your life.
Is it hard keeping up with life's demands? Are you feeling stuck? I know this is a difficult and you may be feeling uncertain whether change is possible and if therapy is the right move for you. It's hard managing everything on your own, and I want you to know that you don't have to go through it alone, I am here to help. I take on a client-centred approach that is integrative of other therapies, so I can follow your lead and individualize care to fit your needs. This is your journey and you are the true expert of your life.
(289) 276-8453 View (289) 276-8453
Photo of Building Bridges Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Stoney Creek, ON
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9C
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 210-5106 View (289) 210-5106
Photo of Ikram Haji, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Stoney Creek, ON
Ikram Haji
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, CCC, EMDR, CCTS-I, EFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8N  (Online Only)
Hello and Warmest Welcome! I am Ikram and I offer telehealth across Canada. Reaching out for support is not easy and can be a scary and ovewhelming process. I get that the hardest thing we ever do is ask for help and I am so glad that you made it this far. Are you ready to deal with unresolved trauma? Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or anxious? Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationships, feeling shame, lost, or misunderstood? Is that voice in your head getting louder and stronger at reminding you of your shortcomings or that you are not good enough? If any of this resonates with you, keep reading…
Hello and Warmest Welcome! I am Ikram and I offer telehealth across Canada. Reaching out for support is not easy and can be a scary and ovewhelming process. I get that the hardest thing we ever do is ask for help and I am so glad that you made it this far. Are you ready to deal with unresolved trauma? Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or anxious? Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationships, feeling shame, lost, or misunderstood? Is that voice in your head getting louder and stronger at reminding you of your shortcomings or that you are not good enough? If any of this resonates with you, keep reading…
(226) 401-5516 View (226) 401-5516
Photo of Deborah Birkett, Registered Psychotherapist in Stoney Creek, ON
Deborah Birkett
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8S  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Your religion, spirituality, or culture has become a source of distress, or even suffering—rather than of strength. You’re struggling with feeling pressured to make choices based on cultural/religious expectations and beliefs that don’t work for you, with conflicts in interfaith or multicultural relationships, or perhaps whether to leave or join a religious community. You’ve found yourself thinking, "I don't know who I am anymore, or what I'm doing with my life." Relentless uncertainty or confusion can leave you feeling too drained to cope with life, much less enjoy it. At this point, you just want to feel "not broken."
Your religion, spirituality, or culture has become a source of distress, or even suffering—rather than of strength. You’re struggling with feeling pressured to make choices based on cultural/religious expectations and beliefs that don’t work for you, with conflicts in interfaith or multicultural relationships, or perhaps whether to leave or join a religious community. You’ve found yourself thinking, "I don't know who I am anymore, or what I'm doing with my life." Relentless uncertainty or confusion can leave you feeling too drained to cope with life, much less enjoy it. At this point, you just want to feel "not broken."
(289) 382-9103 View (289) 382-9103
Photo of Building Bridges Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Stoney Creek, ON
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8E
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS: IN-PERSON & PHONE/VIDEO*** We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 207-6240 View (289) 207-6240
Photo of Maryam Almasi, Registered Psychotherapist in Stoney Creek, ON
Maryam Almasi
Registered Psychotherapist, HBA, MA, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Burlington, ON L7R  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients - Are you feeling weighed down and overwhelmed? Struggling with relationships, trauma, anxiety, ADHD, &/or stress? Seeking help can be daunting, but here, you'll find a compassionate, judgement free, & holistic approach tailored to your unique self. I offer a safe space for you to share, express emotions, & embark on a journey of healing & empowerment. Whether you need tools to manage anxiety, trauma, or stress, explore your identity, process day-to-day events, or improve relationships/intimacy, I'm here to listen and walk alongside you.
Accepting new clients - Are you feeling weighed down and overwhelmed? Struggling with relationships, trauma, anxiety, ADHD, &/or stress? Seeking help can be daunting, but here, you'll find a compassionate, judgement free, & holistic approach tailored to your unique self. I offer a safe space for you to share, express emotions, & embark on a journey of healing & empowerment. Whether you need tools to manage anxiety, trauma, or stress, explore your identity, process day-to-day events, or improve relationships/intimacy, I'm here to listen and walk alongside you.
(647) 901-3017 View (647) 901-3017
Photo of Lorna Anderson, Registered Psychotherapist in Stoney Creek, ON
Lorna Anderson
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8P  (Online Only)
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** It’s a privilege and honour to be doing this work, and to walk alongside clients on their respective healing journeys. I believe that everyone is the expert of their own lives and life experiences. By working collaboratively and through meaning-making, I aim to support clients in connecting with their needs, dreams, hopes, as well as to the answers I believe each person has inside them. My approach is trauma-informed, non-directive, strength-based, and client-centered. Healing, the discovery of possibilities, one’s resilience, and one's gifts can all be part of the therapy process.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** It’s a privilege and honour to be doing this work, and to walk alongside clients on their respective healing journeys. I believe that everyone is the expert of their own lives and life experiences. By working collaboratively and through meaning-making, I aim to support clients in connecting with their needs, dreams, hopes, as well as to the answers I believe each person has inside them. My approach is trauma-informed, non-directive, strength-based, and client-centered. Healing, the discovery of possibilities, one’s resilience, and one's gifts can all be part of the therapy process.
(289) 272-7293 View (289) 272-7293

Online Therapists

Photo of Shazia Arif, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Stoney Creek, ON
Shazia Arif
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1K
As a South Asian Muslim woman, I have had the privilege of seeing the world through those identities and gained a deep understanding of the systems in play. I support individuals navigate through the struggles they experience in identity, relationships, emotional regulation, self-esteem, anxiety and other mental health issues. I also work with challenges related to faith, spirituality, cultural differences, and discrimination. If you can relate to these struggles and are looking for a way to navigate through this, I would be happy to create an environment that promotes growth and work towards a positive outcome.
As a South Asian Muslim woman, I have had the privilege of seeing the world through those identities and gained a deep understanding of the systems in play. I support individuals navigate through the struggles they experience in identity, relationships, emotional regulation, self-esteem, anxiety and other mental health issues. I also work with challenges related to faith, spirituality, cultural differences, and discrimination. If you can relate to these struggles and are looking for a way to navigate through this, I would be happy to create an environment that promotes growth and work towards a positive outcome.
(289) 216-6829 View (289) 216-6829
Photo of Sumara Riaz, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Stoney Creek, ON
Sumara Riaz
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSc, ADMH, MACP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6S  (Online Only)
As being a Muslim woman, mother, and first generation Canadian, I found it’s difficult to navigate through too many roles and responsibilities that lead us towards facing many mental health issues of anxiety, depression, stress, and low self esteem, at times. I can help you with navigating through these challenges, staying focused, engaged, working towards and achieving your life goals as well as in attaining an authentic self. I have graduated in Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology, qualified to provide virtual counselling and psychotherapy under the supervision of an approved supervisor.
As being a Muslim woman, mother, and first generation Canadian, I found it’s difficult to navigate through too many roles and responsibilities that lead us towards facing many mental health issues of anxiety, depression, stress, and low self esteem, at times. I can help you with navigating through these challenges, staying focused, engaged, working towards and achieving your life goals as well as in attaining an authentic self. I have graduated in Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology, qualified to provide virtual counselling and psychotherapy under the supervision of an approved supervisor.
(289) 806-5015 View (289) 806-5015
Photo of The H Factor Solutions, Psychologist in Stoney Creek, ON
The H Factor Solutions
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5B
Dr. Afsheen Anwar is a registered clinical and counselling psychologist in Ontario and a member of CPA. She obtained her PhD in Psychology from Pakistan in 2012. From a Southeast-Asian, Muslim background, Dr. Anwar has been passionately involved with teaching, consulting & clinical practice since 2000 at a national & international level. She has over 23 years of clinical experience including assessment & therapy with individuals, couples & families, and has worked in both individual and group settings. She works with clients to address various issues including mood disturbances and anxiety, relationship conflict & personal growth.
Dr. Afsheen Anwar is a registered clinical and counselling psychologist in Ontario and a member of CPA. She obtained her PhD in Psychology from Pakistan in 2012. From a Southeast-Asian, Muslim background, Dr. Anwar has been passionately involved with teaching, consulting & clinical practice since 2000 at a national & international level. She has over 23 years of clinical experience including assessment & therapy with individuals, couples & families, and has worked in both individual and group settings. She works with clients to address various issues including mood disturbances and anxiety, relationship conflict & personal growth.
(289) 768-6185 View (289) 768-6185
Photo of Leena, Registered Social Worker in Stoney Creek, ON
Leena
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5L  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
She is the founder of Canadian Muslim Addiction Association and often provides workshops on substance abuse and addictive behaviors in the community.
Sarah Ahmed completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Masters of Social Work degree from University of Toronto, specializing in Mental Health and Addictions. Sarah has worked with a diverse clientele within a multitude of clinical inpatient and outpatient settings. Sarah provides individual and group counselling to individuals suffering from mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, coupled with co-occurring substance use issues. Additionally, Sarah also provides support for loved ones on how to sustain healthy relationships and manage life stressors.
She is the founder of Canadian Muslim Addiction Association and often provides workshops on substance abuse and addictive behaviors in the community.
Sarah Ahmed completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Masters of Social Work degree from University of Toronto, specializing in Mental Health and Addictions. Sarah has worked with a diverse clientele within a multitude of clinical inpatient and outpatient settings. Sarah provides individual and group counselling to individuals suffering from mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, coupled with co-occurring substance use issues. Additionally, Sarah also provides support for loved ones on how to sustain healthy relationships and manage life stressors.
(647) 490-8723 View (647) 490-8723
Photo of Reena Vanza, Registered Psychotherapist in Stoney Creek, ON
Reena Vanza
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, MA, RP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6J
Life experiences past and present can both contribute to underlying mental health issues that decrease the quality of your life. I am here to listen to your story and guide you through the painful parts, overcome challenges and help you reach your goals. I help people piece together their past and work towards a meaningful present. With over 15 years in the field, I bring both life and professional experience to my work. I support people with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression and other mood and emotional disorders. Over the years I have also supported professionals who experience burnout, various trauma and compassion fatigue.
Life experiences past and present can both contribute to underlying mental health issues that decrease the quality of your life. I am here to listen to your story and guide you through the painful parts, overcome challenges and help you reach your goals. I help people piece together their past and work towards a meaningful present. With over 15 years in the field, I bring both life and professional experience to my work. I support people with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression and other mood and emotional disorders. Over the years I have also supported professionals who experience burnout, various trauma and compassion fatigue.
(289) 805-3574 View (289) 805-3574
Photo of Denise Taher, Registered Psychotherapist in Stoney Creek, ON
Denise Taher
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T
Do you often feel anxious or uneasy? Do you struggle with disturbing and intrusive thoughts? Are your habits getting harder and harder to change? Life can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to defeat you. You don’t have to do this alone – if you’re considering taking the next step on your healing journey, or perhaps the first, I would be honoured to support you. My laid approach to counselling makes it easy for you to feel comfortable to explore your deepest, darkest problems, and become a better version of you. Welcome to your next chapter!
Do you often feel anxious or uneasy? Do you struggle with disturbing and intrusive thoughts? Are your habits getting harder and harder to change? Life can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to defeat you. You don’t have to do this alone – if you’re considering taking the next step on your healing journey, or perhaps the first, I would be honoured to support you. My laid approach to counselling makes it easy for you to feel comfortable to explore your deepest, darkest problems, and become a better version of you. Welcome to your next chapter!
(289) 210-6274 View (289) 210-6274
Photo of Rameet Singh, Registered Psychotherapist in Stoney Creek, ON
Rameet Singh
Registered Psychotherapist, EdD, MEd
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1X
Our psychotherapy sessions are holistic & address healing at the level of mind, body & spirit. Some of the issues addressed include depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, grief & loss, spiritual issues & more. We combine the best of modern psychology with eastern wisdom teachings. I also specialize in feminine empowerment & divine feminine awakening, in a signature 3 month program called "The True Feminine Rising". In this program we combine psychology, spirituality, goddess work, chakra healing and yoga psychology.
Our psychotherapy sessions are holistic & address healing at the level of mind, body & spirit. Some of the issues addressed include depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, grief & loss, spiritual issues & more. We combine the best of modern psychology with eastern wisdom teachings. I also specialize in feminine empowerment & divine feminine awakening, in a signature 3 month program called "The True Feminine Rising". In this program we combine psychology, spirituality, goddess work, chakra healing and yoga psychology.
(647) 492-7336 View (647) 492-7336
Photo of Anooshy Shahid, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Stoney Creek, ON
Anooshy Shahid
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1R  (Online Only)
We often encounter many challenges that cause feelings of worry, hopelessness, and burnout, making it feel impossible to keep up with daily life. Anxiety and uncertainty become a norm, causing us to feel overwhelmed and often alone. We begin to push our needs aside, failing to make time for ourselves and disconnecting from those we love. We wonder what it would feel like if things were different. What if things were better? I believe you have the power to create this change and work towards a better life.
We often encounter many challenges that cause feelings of worry, hopelessness, and burnout, making it feel impossible to keep up with daily life. Anxiety and uncertainty become a norm, causing us to feel overwhelmed and often alone. We begin to push our needs aside, failing to make time for ourselves and disconnecting from those we love. We wonder what it would feel like if things were different. What if things were better? I believe you have the power to create this change and work towards a better life.
(289) 806-1710 View (289) 806-1710
Photo of Naaila Ali, Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist in Stoney Creek, ON
Naaila Ali
Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5S  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am so happy you're here. As a therapist, I hope to join you on your individual and collective healing journeys in the ways that feel best - navigating paths unknown, tender moments to slow down and rest, and all that is between and beyond. I work primarily with BIPOC and 2SLGBTQ+ clients, including first-generation children of immigrants, and queer and trans Muslims. I draw from somatic, narrative, expression-based practices, and Internal Family Systems. My therapy is political and slow; embracing of pleasure and joy, and holding space for the impacts of navigating the world in bodies that are marginalized and oppressed.
Welcome! I am so happy you're here. As a therapist, I hope to join you on your individual and collective healing journeys in the ways that feel best - navigating paths unknown, tender moments to slow down and rest, and all that is between and beyond. I work primarily with BIPOC and 2SLGBTQ+ clients, including first-generation children of immigrants, and queer and trans Muslims. I draw from somatic, narrative, expression-based practices, and Internal Family Systems. My therapy is political and slow; embracing of pleasure and joy, and holding space for the impacts of navigating the world in bodies that are marginalized and oppressed.
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See more therapy options for Stoney Creek


Muslim Counsellors

Why is it important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive?

A culturally sensitive therapist will be respectful of faith, race, sexual orientation, gender, age, disabilities, or anything that is relevant to an individual’s reasons for seeking therapy. This mental health practitioner will therefore be able to recognize the role of faith in a client’s life, and they can appreciate the cultural values and beliefs of others. Cultural sensitivity on the part of the therapist may enhance the possibility of a strong therapeutic bond, even if the clinician does not have an extensive understanding of a client’s background before therapy begins.

How might I inquire about a therapist's experience with Muslim clients?

It is best to ask directly whether a therapist has worked with Muslim clients, and if so, the extent to which cultural or religious principles factored into their work together. You can also ask whether a therapist who is familiar with Islamic practices, values, and beliefs incorporates them into their professional work, and if so, how. If the therapist does not have a sufficient knowledge base, they may well know and can refer you to someone who has such experience.

What if the therapist does not have my exact background?

It is not necessary for a therapist to share one’s exact religious background for therapy to be successful. A qualified and culturally sensitive therapist will appreciate diversity within the Muslim community as well as diversity overall, and will have a sense of how religious and cultural issues can contribute to mental health. In addition, a good therapist would be willing to learn from their clients.

How do I recognise an effective Muslim therapist?

Like all therapists, a Muslim therapist who is effective will have the requisite training and expertise in evidence-based techniques, as well as the ability to connect with you on a personal level. An effective Muslim therapist may also demonstrate a clear understanding of your cultural background and faith. A therapist with such cultural sensitivity will set the stage for a strong therapeutic alliance.

Who is included in Psychology Today's directory of the Muslim faith?

The directory of Muslim therapists includes mental health providers who have shared their cultural background in their profiles. Psychology Today uses this information to assist clients in finding a therapist with a similar background. However, not all therapists choose to disclose this information, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. When the number of therapists identified as Muslim is limited, the directory will also show therapists with extensive experience working with clients from relevant backgrounds.