Therapists in 49503
Sarah K Parks-Pittman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CHT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (Online Only)
We are living in tender times. Many of us are undergoing internal shifts and personal transformations while the world at large is also shifting beneath our feet. Working together, we can find ways to cope creatively with life's many challenges. My work is inspired by each individual client’s unique potential for wholeness. I enjoy working with individuals on issues of gender, sexuality, relationships, intimacy, spirituality, wellness and authenticity. I am LGBTQIA+ friendly & aware. My other areas of competence include anxiety, depression, grief, and adjustment to life transitions.
We are living in tender times. Many of us are undergoing internal shifts and personal transformations while the world at large is also shifting beneath our feet. Working together, we can find ways to cope creatively with life's many challenges. My work is inspired by each individual client’s unique potential for wholeness. I enjoy working with individuals on issues of gender, sexuality, relationships, intimacy, spirituality, wellness and authenticity. I am LGBTQIA+ friendly & aware. My other areas of competence include anxiety, depression, grief, and adjustment to life transitions.
Axel Francisco Hettinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
Axel Hettinger (he/him) specializes in client-focused therapeutic techniques. His work incorporates the arts and any special interests clients may have. Axel is a queer therapist who strives to create a welcoming, affirming and warm environment for all clients, and specifically works with LGBTQIA+ clients seeking gender-affirming care. For several years he’s worked with adolescents as a counselor, mentor, and community organizer. Axel is a regular collaborator and facilitator with the Grand Rapids Pride Center and speaks at Universities and schools to promote cultural understanding of underserved communities.
Axel Hettinger (he/him) specializes in client-focused therapeutic techniques. His work incorporates the arts and any special interests clients may have. Axel is a queer therapist who strives to create a welcoming, affirming and warm environment for all clients, and specifically works with LGBTQIA+ clients seeking gender-affirming care. For several years he’s worked with adolescents as a counselor, mentor, and community organizer. Axel is a regular collaborator and facilitator with the Grand Rapids Pride Center and speaks at Universities and schools to promote cultural understanding of underserved communities.
Andrea C Sims
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (Online Only)
You deserve to have a safe space to engage in exploration and healing. Life can be an overwhelming experience, especially for those of us that hold marginalized identities. Therapy is a collaborative process, and through this collaborative process we can both explore what healing may look like for you. I enjoy an eclectic and holistic style of healing, emphasizing a client-centered approach for selecting treatment styles. Black femmes, POC, and LGBTQIA2SP+ folx are prioritized. I look forward to collaborating with you.
You deserve to have a safe space to engage in exploration and healing. Life can be an overwhelming experience, especially for those of us that hold marginalized identities. Therapy is a collaborative process, and through this collaborative process we can both explore what healing may look like for you. I enjoy an eclectic and holistic style of healing, emphasizing a client-centered approach for selecting treatment styles. Black femmes, POC, and LGBTQIA2SP+ folx are prioritized. I look forward to collaborating with you.
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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.