Photo of Erica M. Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 60622, IL
Erica M. Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
Therapy transformed my life when I was referred to a counselor years ago as a teen. Since then, I have wanted to provide this type of support and to serve as a guide for others through difficult times in life. I aspire to help my clients tap into their own inner strengths, so they can ultimately live more freely, fully and authentically. I take a client-centered approach, and help my clients identify their own goals for themselves.
Therapy transformed my life when I was referred to a counselor years ago as a teen. Since then, I have wanted to provide this type of support and to serve as a guide for others through difficult times in life. I aspire to help my clients tap into their own inner strengths, so they can ultimately live more freely, fully and authentically. I take a client-centered approach, and help my clients identify their own goals for themselves.
(773) 207-3235 View (773) 207-3235
Photo of Katty Li, Licensed Professional Counselor in 60622, IL
Katty Li
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
Do you find yourself caught in a cycle of self-criticism, leading to persistent feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness? Do your emotions sometimes overwhelm you, resulting in reactions that feel disproportionate to the situation? Navigating relationships can become even more challenging when affected by family dynamics. Maybe you have been having concerns with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/ loss, life transitions, career/school stress, self-harm, and relationship challenges. Perhaps you’ve become discouraged by your attempts to help yourself. That’s what I’m here for.
Do you find yourself caught in a cycle of self-criticism, leading to persistent feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness? Do your emotions sometimes overwhelm you, resulting in reactions that feel disproportionate to the situation? Navigating relationships can become even more challenging when affected by family dynamics. Maybe you have been having concerns with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/ loss, life transitions, career/school stress, self-harm, and relationship challenges. Perhaps you’ve become discouraged by your attempts to help yourself. That’s what I’m here for.
(708) 381-2655 View (708) 381-2655

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.