Photo of Lauren Shelly Jefferson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08542, NJ
Lauren Shelly Jefferson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08542
Waitlist for new clients
I have had the pleasure of working with a varied clientele. For many years I have built rapport with and facilitated the progress of youth who are on the spectrum, who have attention disorders, who struggled with emotion regulation, who are mute, who are transgender, and have exhibited self-harming behaviors. I have also worked with families as a parent coach and as a provider of psycho-education. Many of my adult clients have had issues with abandonment, attachment, trauma, and self-harm. The goals I have facilitated my clients progression in are myriad. However, one goal most of my clients aspire to attain is self-love.
I have had the pleasure of working with a varied clientele. For many years I have built rapport with and facilitated the progress of youth who are on the spectrum, who have attention disorders, who struggled with emotion regulation, who are mute, who are transgender, and have exhibited self-harming behaviors. I have also worked with families as a parent coach and as a provider of psycho-education. Many of my adult clients have had issues with abandonment, attachment, trauma, and self-harm. The goals I have facilitated my clients progression in are myriad. However, one goal most of my clients aspire to attain is self-love.
(609) 881-1809 View (609) 881-1809
Photo of Belinda Seiger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 08542, NJ
Belinda Seiger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08542  (Online Only)
Anxiety is a part of being human, but when chronic worry, panic attacks, unwanted and intrusive repetitive thoughts, behaviors and compulsions take over, you may need new strategies and professional support. For over 28 years, I have worked with people of all ages who experience these symptoms, as well as those with ADHD, compulsive eating, neurodiversity, perfectionism and low self esteem. I offer a practical approach to recovering from compulsive and binge eating & managing symptoms of anxiety, OCD and ADHD. I partner with you to offer both a path to developing insight as well as tools for the behavioral changes you envision.
Anxiety is a part of being human, but when chronic worry, panic attacks, unwanted and intrusive repetitive thoughts, behaviors and compulsions take over, you may need new strategies and professional support. For over 28 years, I have worked with people of all ages who experience these symptoms, as well as those with ADHD, compulsive eating, neurodiversity, perfectionism and low self esteem. I offer a practical approach to recovering from compulsive and binge eating & managing symptoms of anxiety, OCD and ADHD. I partner with you to offer both a path to developing insight as well as tools for the behavioral changes you envision.
(609) 454-6638 View (609) 454-6638
Culturally Sensitive Therapists

How does culturally sensitive therapy work?

A culturally sensitive therapist will tailor their approach to therapy based on the individual client’s background. This may include changing their style of interaction (asking open-ended questions vs. being the “expert” voice), their affect (seeming warm or “neutral”), how much personal information they disclose about themselves, and more. It’s also important for a culturally sensitive therapist to acknowledge larger societal forces that may impact their client due to the client’s background.

How effective is culturally sensitive therapy?

Some professionals have expressed concern about highlighting cultural differences in therapy, suggesting that it might promote stereotypes and harm the therapeutic bond; however, many experts agree that cultural sensitivity tends to strengthen the connection between therapist and client and help clients feel heard and understood. A culturally sensitive approach to therapy can be especially helpful for those not in the cultural majority, especially when combined with proven therapies like Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

What are the limitations of a culturally sensitive approach to therapy?

While being culturally sensitive is generally a valuable skill to have, a therapist cannot treat every client from a similar background the same way. Each client is an individual with their own values, personal preferences, and life experiences that will need to be explored during therapy. In addition, it’s rare for a therapist and client to have identical backgrounds, so there may be some cross-cultural differences to navigate during therapy, but a culturally sensitive therapist can do so with empathy and respect.

Can culturally sensitive therapy be done online?

Yes, online therapy using a culturally sensitive approach can be beneficial. Therapy can sometimes be difficult to access for clients from diverse backgrounds and socioeconomic standing. The array of mental health support available through the internet makes it possible for clients to find a good therapist match regardless of where they live.