Photo of Amanda Mbata, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Amanda Mbata
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I have a special interest and expertise in marital and couples counseling, anxiety disorders, family trauma, premarital, attachment issues, Christian counseling, life transitions, and self worth.
Whether you are navigating unhealthy attachments, having relationship and marital concerns, or overwhelmed with anxiety and fear there is hope for you to overcome! My therapeutic approach remains the same whether there is one or more persons in my office, I believe the quality of our relationships is mostly determined by the quality of our individual lives, and I endeavor to help my clients understand how their thoughts, misalignment of values, and unresolved rejection and abandonment concerns impact every area of their lives.
I have a special interest and expertise in marital and couples counseling, anxiety disorders, family trauma, premarital, attachment issues, Christian counseling, life transitions, and self worth.
Whether you are navigating unhealthy attachments, having relationship and marital concerns, or overwhelmed with anxiety and fear there is hope for you to overcome! My therapeutic approach remains the same whether there is one or more persons in my office, I believe the quality of our relationships is mostly determined by the quality of our individual lives, and I endeavor to help my clients understand how their thoughts, misalignment of values, and unresolved rejection and abandonment concerns impact every area of their lives.
(919) 759-6423 View (919) 759-6423
Photo of Phillip C. Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Phillip C. Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27608  (Online Only)
I also provide Christian Counseling.
HEALING is available NOW...if you choose to accept it! Today, so many people are dealing with hurts that constantly impact their daily lives. Some struggle silently while others lash out looking for relief. Well, you can find that healing relief here. Therapy will allow you a safe place to express yourself while learning valuable skills to help you live a more balanced, enjoyable life.
I also provide Christian Counseling.
HEALING is available NOW...if you choose to accept it! Today, so many people are dealing with hurts that constantly impact their daily lives. Some struggle silently while others lash out looking for relief. Well, you can find that healing relief here. Therapy will allow you a safe place to express yourself while learning valuable skills to help you live a more balanced, enjoyable life.
(984) 646-5617 View (984) 646-5617
Photo of Christian Counseling Associates Raleigh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Christian Counseling Associates Raleigh
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, DMin, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Dr. Mike and Rhonda Garrett provide trusted Christian counseling and life coaching for individuals and couples in North Raleigh, NC. We specialize in marriages, communication, conflict resolution, infidelity, sexual addiction, trauma (EMDR), spiritual issues, anxiety, depression, grief and repairing and restoring relationships. We also offer adolescent and adult individual therapy and cover a broad range of needs and requests. Over 35 years of marriage, counseling, and ministry experience.
Dr. Mike and Rhonda Garrett provide trusted Christian counseling and life coaching for individuals and couples in North Raleigh, NC. We specialize in marriages, communication, conflict resolution, infidelity, sexual addiction, trauma (EMDR), spiritual issues, anxiety, depression, grief and repairing and restoring relationships. We also offer adolescent and adult individual therapy and cover a broad range of needs and requests. Over 35 years of marriage, counseling, and ministry experience.
(919) 439-6343 View (919) 439-6343
Photo of Hugo Izzo, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Hugo Izzo
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
I offer faith-based counseling from a Christian perspective if you desire, and have training in EMDR therapy.
Sometimes the strongest thing you can do is ask for help. Are you hurting, feeling anxious or depressed? Seeking EMDR therapy? Do you have a secret that is crushing you? I am here to help. With over 25 years experience helping people work through a variety of issues, I believe I can help you find hope and experience courage to overcome your challenges. Whatever you are experiencing and feeling, I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a wonderful place of safety and acceptance where you can process your thoughts and feelings, whatever they may be. Life is a struggle, but I will help you struggle in the right direction.
I offer faith-based counseling from a Christian perspective if you desire, and have training in EMDR therapy.
Sometimes the strongest thing you can do is ask for help. Are you hurting, feeling anxious or depressed? Seeking EMDR therapy? Do you have a secret that is crushing you? I am here to help. With over 25 years experience helping people work through a variety of issues, I believe I can help you find hope and experience courage to overcome your challenges. Whatever you are experiencing and feeling, I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a wonderful place of safety and acceptance where you can process your thoughts and feelings, whatever they may be. Life is a struggle, but I will help you struggle in the right direction.
(984) 203-7079 View (984) 203-7079
Photo of Philip Timothy Guistwite, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Philip Timothy Guistwite
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
I have specialized training to assist clients so inclined to use spiritually-integrated psychotherapy and I am also available to assist clients specifically with Christian counseling if they ask for this.
I enjoy working with anyone who desires to maximize their strengths and overcome weaknesses. A desire to change and improve life, together with a willingness to work are the only requirements for good therapy. Change is possible for everyone and I enjoy enhancing and utilizing the natural strengths of people as they address growth issues. While understanding from where you have come in family and individual background, together we will develop goals that address the issues you desire to change. I work with individuals, couples and families to assist with any issues of concern.
I have specialized training to assist clients so inclined to use spiritually-integrated psychotherapy and I am also available to assist clients specifically with Christian counseling if they ask for this.
I enjoy working with anyone who desires to maximize their strengths and overcome weaknesses. A desire to change and improve life, together with a willingness to work are the only requirements for good therapy. Change is possible for everyone and I enjoy enhancing and utilizing the natural strengths of people as they address growth issues. While understanding from where you have come in family and individual background, together we will develop goals that address the issues you desire to change. I work with individuals, couples and families to assist with any issues of concern.
(919) 701-5832 View (919) 701-5832
Photo of Dr. Timothy Rainey, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Dr. Timothy Rainey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCQS, LCASA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
The process of working with a new client is to gather pertinent information about the client's psychosocial, environment, and past family history to help accurately diagnose the client. Once a diagnosis is made then a treatment plan would be developed conjointly between the client and me utilizing S.M.A.R.T. goals. S.M.A.R.T. goals are​ specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based goals that would help the client be successful in treatment. If you are looking for a counselor who is genuine, compassionate, authentic, and who will listen and care about your concerns. Then I am here to help you restore your self-worth.
The process of working with a new client is to gather pertinent information about the client's psychosocial, environment, and past family history to help accurately diagnose the client. Once a diagnosis is made then a treatment plan would be developed conjointly between the client and me utilizing S.M.A.R.T. goals. S.M.A.R.T. goals are​ specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based goals that would help the client be successful in treatment. If you are looking for a counselor who is genuine, compassionate, authentic, and who will listen and care about your concerns. Then I am here to help you restore your self-worth.
(919) 480-2570 View (919) 480-2570
Photo of Jessica N Carter, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Jessica N Carter
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMFT, LCMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27614
I often look at life as a roller coaster. It's filled with ups and downs, twists and turns. Some of the things that life throws our way we are not prepared for and have felt as though we have no one to turn to. In the past therapy was frowned upon and what happens in the family was suppose to stay in the family, but if healing has never taken place and we have not learned new ways of handling the twist and turns of life we tend to repeat generational patterns. We were not meant to live alone so why should we have to go through difficult situations alone? We shouldn't! Professional help is available so let's start healing.
I often look at life as a roller coaster. It's filled with ups and downs, twists and turns. Some of the things that life throws our way we are not prepared for and have felt as though we have no one to turn to. In the past therapy was frowned upon and what happens in the family was suppose to stay in the family, but if healing has never taken place and we have not learned new ways of handling the twist and turns of life we tend to repeat generational patterns. We were not meant to live alone so why should we have to go through difficult situations alone? We shouldn't! Professional help is available so let's start healing.
(919) 980-9334 View (919) 980-9334
Photo of Shauna Lee Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Shauna Lee Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Thank you for visiting my page. I understand and appreciate that reaching out for support is not easy. Through the brave action of engaging in therapy, I believe clients gift themselves an opportunity to gain powerful insights, grow in self-awareness, cultivate a deeper connection to themselves and others, and ultimately move toward lasting change. My role as therapist is to facilitate and support this process within the structure of a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment where all - regardless of race, religion, identity, or background - are included and welcome.
Thank you for visiting my page. I understand and appreciate that reaching out for support is not easy. Through the brave action of engaging in therapy, I believe clients gift themselves an opportunity to gain powerful insights, grow in self-awareness, cultivate a deeper connection to themselves and others, and ultimately move toward lasting change. My role as therapist is to facilitate and support this process within the structure of a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment where all - regardless of race, religion, identity, or background - are included and welcome.
(336) 568-8991 View (336) 568-8991
Photo of Andrea Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Andrea Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
Hi there! I'm so excited to connect with you. I'm a bilingual Latina and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA). I offer therapy in both English and Spanish to teens, young adults, couples, and families. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, life transitions, family dynamics, relationship conflict, self-esteem, and managing stress. My goal is to create a personalized therapeutic journey for each person, centered around what resonates most with their individual needs and experiences while creating a warm, compassionate, and comfortable therapeutic space.
Hi there! I'm so excited to connect with you. I'm a bilingual Latina and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA). I offer therapy in both English and Spanish to teens, young adults, couples, and families. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, life transitions, family dynamics, relationship conflict, self-esteem, and managing stress. My goal is to create a personalized therapeutic journey for each person, centered around what resonates most with their individual needs and experiences while creating a warm, compassionate, and comfortable therapeutic space.
(984) 223-9417 View (984) 223-9417
Photo of Zack Ufland, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Zack Ufland
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I know you’re scared and exhausted. Most people don’t seek therapy until they are at the end of their rope. You and your partner are left in a constant loop of misunderstanding, isolation, and rejection. You don’t want to be alone and you don’t want to cause more pain. And yet you know your relationship cannot remain the same. But you and your partner have invested too many years into one another to become another statistic. I am happy to share, there is hope for change and healing even in the darkest situations.
I know you’re scared and exhausted. Most people don’t seek therapy until they are at the end of their rope. You and your partner are left in a constant loop of misunderstanding, isolation, and rejection. You don’t want to be alone and you don’t want to cause more pain. And yet you know your relationship cannot remain the same. But you and your partner have invested too many years into one another to become another statistic. I am happy to share, there is hope for change and healing even in the darkest situations.
(919) 443-9910 View (919) 443-9910
Photo of Brandi Gibson M.ed., Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Brandi Gibson M.ed.
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, CIMHP, CTMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610  (Online Only)
There is nothing off limits in terms of what we can discuss during your sessions—they are completely confidential. Together we will brainstorm each session & create achievable short-term plans so that before you know it—you are living & maintaining a life that feels healthiest & truest to you. Text me to get started ASAP at 919-971-4064. Meeting with a therapist is a healthy way to cope with daily life. It’s an investment in your personal growth & personal development. Feeling supported, emotionally validated, connected, & free from judgment, will help you feel better & develop more self-understanding and compassion.
There is nothing off limits in terms of what we can discuss during your sessions—they are completely confidential. Together we will brainstorm each session & create achievable short-term plans so that before you know it—you are living & maintaining a life that feels healthiest & truest to you. Text me to get started ASAP at 919-971-4064. Meeting with a therapist is a healthy way to cope with daily life. It’s an investment in your personal growth & personal development. Feeling supported, emotionally validated, connected, & free from judgment, will help you feel better & develop more self-understanding and compassion.
(919) 372-0527 View (919) 372-0527
Photo of Mark Howerton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Mark Howerton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27608  (Online Only)
Taking new clients. Start with a phone call TODAY! Feeling stressed or overwhelmed, depressed, unmotivated, or scattered? Are you struggling with direction or the next steps in what seems like a crazy world? Let me help. My clients are good people doing their best in the face of real-life challenges. I help individuals, couples, and families move forward in their lives. Whether you are seeking therapy for personal growth, relationship issues, divorce, parenting challenges, or life stage transitions my clients would tell you that the practical interventions they receive in our sessions significantly helped progress in their lives.
Taking new clients. Start with a phone call TODAY! Feeling stressed or overwhelmed, depressed, unmotivated, or scattered? Are you struggling with direction or the next steps in what seems like a crazy world? Let me help. My clients are good people doing their best in the face of real-life challenges. I help individuals, couples, and families move forward in their lives. Whether you are seeking therapy for personal growth, relationship issues, divorce, parenting challenges, or life stage transitions my clients would tell you that the practical interventions they receive in our sessions significantly helped progress in their lives.
(949) 401-9248 View (949) 401-9248
Photo of Grace in the Shadows, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Grace in the Shadows, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCMHC, PhD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27613  (Online Only)
In life, you seek out the ability to have peace, harmony, a fulfilling career, and a happy family. However, sometimes these things do not happen, or things go astray. Life happens, tragedy comes about, or situations arise to make you feel unhinged Sometimes, you just need someone with whom you can unload. Someone who will walk you through solutions to the problems at hand. I would like to be that person for you.
In life, you seek out the ability to have peace, harmony, a fulfilling career, and a happy family. However, sometimes these things do not happen, or things go astray. Life happens, tragedy comes about, or situations arise to make you feel unhinged Sometimes, you just need someone with whom you can unload. Someone who will walk you through solutions to the problems at hand. I would like to be that person for you.
(571) 462-2141 View (571) 462-2141
Photo of Holly Russell, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Raleigh, NC
Holly Russell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
Feeling lost in the sea of therapists online? You do not want to book an intake and tell someone your whole life story only to realize a few sessions in that they are just nodding, not saying much and you don't click. So, are we going to talk about feelings? Sure. And, I believe in a no nonsense approach to therapy. I will hold you accountable to create the change you want to see in your life. Whether we meet in my office, go for a walk outdoors, or have a virtual session, my aim is to provide a safe and supportive space where meaningful change and healing can happen.
Feeling lost in the sea of therapists online? You do not want to book an intake and tell someone your whole life story only to realize a few sessions in that they are just nodding, not saying much and you don't click. So, are we going to talk about feelings? Sure. And, I believe in a no nonsense approach to therapy. I will hold you accountable to create the change you want to see in your life. Whether we meet in my office, go for a walk outdoors, or have a virtual session, my aim is to provide a safe and supportive space where meaningful change and healing can happen.
(984) 265-2321 View (984) 265-2321
Photo of Emotivate Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Emotivate Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MDiv, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
Are you trying to navigate relationship difficulties? Do your conflicts seem to repeat themselves over and over? Perhaps, you and your partner have simply grown distant from each other, or you are just looking for a more intimate bond and connection. Whether you are newly weds, having trouble conceiving, facing infidelity, or empty nesters, there is a tried and true way to navigate these experiences. Your relationship doesn't have to suffer any longer, there is a way through your unique circumstances. Let us help you find the connection that you truly desire in your relationship.
Are you trying to navigate relationship difficulties? Do your conflicts seem to repeat themselves over and over? Perhaps, you and your partner have simply grown distant from each other, or you are just looking for a more intimate bond and connection. Whether you are newly weds, having trouble conceiving, facing infidelity, or empty nesters, there is a tried and true way to navigate these experiences. Your relationship doesn't have to suffer any longer, there is a way through your unique circumstances. Let us help you find the connection that you truly desire in your relationship.
(585) 501-3045 View (585) 501-3045
Photo of Eliza Burgess, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Eliza Burgess
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601
Waitlist for new clients
My style is personal, creative, relaxed (shoes in session are optional!), compassionate, and good-humored. I work with children and adults without discrimination based on race, gender/gender-orientation, sexual identity/orientation, culture, or religious beliefs. I'm here to help you delve deeper into where you are, where you've been, and where you want to go; in your relationships, in your life, and in your future! We will explore what being well really means to you and how to achieve your goals. Expect to try new things, be challenged, encouraged, and supported as we journey together in this sacred work.
My style is personal, creative, relaxed (shoes in session are optional!), compassionate, and good-humored. I work with children and adults without discrimination based on race, gender/gender-orientation, sexual identity/orientation, culture, or religious beliefs. I'm here to help you delve deeper into where you are, where you've been, and where you want to go; in your relationships, in your life, and in your future! We will explore what being well really means to you and how to achieve your goals. Expect to try new things, be challenged, encouraged, and supported as we journey together in this sacred work.
(919) 551-3640 View (919) 551-3640
Photo of Chris Bissell, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Raleigh, NC
Chris Bissell
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MACMHC, LCMHCA, CSAT-C, CST-C
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
I started my career as an electrical engineer in the aerospace industry, working and leading teams for the International Space Station and a satellite mission. Wanting to work more closely with people, I switched to business strategy consulting, traveling to Fortune 100 companies on a weekly basis for two years. While I got the chance to solve complex problems, I realized I wanted to help people solve the problems that mattered to them at a deeper level. This, coupled with my own recovery journey, is what drives me to do exceptional therapy work today.
I started my career as an electrical engineer in the aerospace industry, working and leading teams for the International Space Station and a satellite mission. Wanting to work more closely with people, I switched to business strategy consulting, traveling to Fortune 100 companies on a weekly basis for two years. While I got the chance to solve complex problems, I realized I wanted to help people solve the problems that mattered to them at a deeper level. This, coupled with my own recovery journey, is what drives me to do exceptional therapy work today.
(704) 459-1017 View (704) 459-1017
Photo of MBS Restorative Centre PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
MBS Restorative Centre PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27606  (Online Only)
Has life challenges, left you feeling overwhelm, unable to cope? MBS Restorative Centre employs a holistic approach of psycho-therapy counseling by incorporating the mind, body and spirit. Strength is the ability to recognize when to ask for help as asking for helping is the number one coping skill MBS Restorative Centre is a three clinicians, you can visit our website at MBs Restorative Centre Instagram.
Has life challenges, left you feeling overwhelm, unable to cope? MBS Restorative Centre employs a holistic approach of psycho-therapy counseling by incorporating the mind, body and spirit. Strength is the ability to recognize when to ask for help as asking for helping is the number one coping skill MBS Restorative Centre is a three clinicians, you can visit our website at MBs Restorative Centre Instagram.
(919) 336-0334 View (919) 336-0334
Photo of Zachary Rothwell in Raleigh, NC
Zachary Rothwell
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27608
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
(332) 244-3936 View (332) 244-3936
Photo of Sherrita Ried, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Sherrita Ried
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27602  (Online Only)
If you are a person who is looking for a compassionate provider that will meet you in the mental space you are in I am a good fit for you. I take the time to talk with you and not at you in order to learn more about what brought you to the point of seeing me. The clients that will find the most success with me is one that is open to feedback, ideas, homework and willing to work as hard or harder than I will to make progress for change.
If you are a person who is looking for a compassionate provider that will meet you in the mental space you are in I am a good fit for you. I take the time to talk with you and not at you in order to learn more about what brought you to the point of seeing me. The clients that will find the most success with me is one that is open to feedback, ideas, homework and willing to work as hard or harder than I will to make progress for change.
(910) 857-5287 View (910) 857-5287
Christian Therapists

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

Therapists and clients don’t need to share the same belief system or background to be able to work effectively together, but a therapist whose training includes a focus on cultural competence may be better able to form a therapeutic bond with individuals from a range of backgrounds, as they will have experience in tailoring their approach to each client—and will be prepared to acknowledge and consider the effects of culture, religion, and other factors on each individual.

Why is it important to find a therapist sensitive to Christian values?

Each person brings a unique history and background to therapy, making it important to find a licensed therapist who is trained in a broad range of treatment modalities. In addition, for people who grow up in a faith tradition that strongly influences the way they conduct their everyday life, finding a therapist who understands or shares that background can ease the disclosure of sensitive information and facilitate the therapeutic process. For some clients, a Christian therapist is likely to incorporate faith-based principles into emotional healing techniques.

How do I recognize an effective Christian therapist?

Christian therapists are licensed mental health professionals—holding a master’s or doctoral degree in medicine, nursing, psychology, counseling, social work, or marriage and family therapy—who are also familiar with Christian beliefs and values. They have an understanding of the importance that Christian principles play in the lives of individuals and families, which allows them to be especially sensitive to the kinds of struggles that can affect daily functioning. Like all effective therapists, a Christian therapist will have undergone training and certification in a variety of treatment modalities that help people through crises and enable them to master the challenges of life.

Why might someone feel comfortable with a Christian therapist?

While training, qualifications, and experience are always important, research has long established that a strong alliance between client and therapist is a major contributor to therapeutic success. An alliance is likely to be strengthened with a therapist who not only is responsive to questions and concerns but also shares a client’s faith and values. Sensitivity to spiritual matters as well as to everyday struggles can provide a welcome sense of safety and contribute to the bond between client and therapist, both of which support the therapeutic process.

Who is included in Psychology Today’s directory of Christian therapists?

The directory of Christian therapists includes professionals who have shared their background in their profiles. However, not all therapists choose to disclose this information, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. The directory also shows therapists who indicate that they have extensive experience working with Christian clients, regardless of their own background or religious affiliation.