Photo of Hira A. Silat, Psychiatrist in Charlotte, NC
Hira A. Silat
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207  (Online Only)
As a psychiatrist and psychotherapist, my goal is to create a safe, warm and compassionate space for healing and personal growth. In my work, I aim to delve beyond diagnostic labels to uncover the core issues underlying clinical symptoms. This process acknowledges each individual’s unique experience and helps minimize reliance on medications. Together, I work with my clients to help them understand the unconscious impact of early childhood experiences on their current ability to love, work and play, and help them gain inner freedom to live fuller, more wholesome lives.
As a psychiatrist and psychotherapist, my goal is to create a safe, warm and compassionate space for healing and personal growth. In my work, I aim to delve beyond diagnostic labels to uncover the core issues underlying clinical symptoms. This process acknowledges each individual’s unique experience and helps minimize reliance on medications. Together, I work with my clients to help them understand the unconscious impact of early childhood experiences on their current ability to love, work and play, and help them gain inner freedom to live fuller, more wholesome lives.
(919) 328-3961 View (919) 328-3961

Muslim Psychiatrists

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 recognize 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.