Photo of Megan Smith, Counselor in 96746, HI
Megan Smith
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kapaa, HI 96746
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes life's every day challenges and our underlying struggles make it difficult to realize our true potential. Motivated by grief, depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, and a range of other experiential states we can find our deepest well of inner strength and guidance. There is support available for anyone wanting to engage in a collaborative relationship to enhance your well-being and quality of life.
Sometimes life's every day challenges and our underlying struggles make it difficult to realize our true potential. Motivated by grief, depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, and a range of other experiential states we can find our deepest well of inner strength and guidance. There is support available for anyone wanting to engage in a collaborative relationship to enhance your well-being and quality of life.
(808) 278-9446 View (808) 278-9446
Photo of Dr. Steve, Psychologist in 96746, HI
Dr. Steve
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kapaa, HI 96746
Aloha :) Currently accepting new Kaiser Permanente and HMSA clients. I welcome individuals of all backgrounds and life experiences into this shared work. I provide professional therapeutic services to couples, families, individual adults, adolescents, and children addressing a range of clinical issues. I honor wherever you are on your journey and believe in cultivating space, and curiosity as we navigate this path together. I believe that understanding and compassion are vital for building trust, mutual respect, and openness, all of which are essential in forming a therapeutic relationship that can encourage change. ​
Aloha :) Currently accepting new Kaiser Permanente and HMSA clients. I welcome individuals of all backgrounds and life experiences into this shared work. I provide professional therapeutic services to couples, families, individual adults, adolescents, and children addressing a range of clinical issues. I honor wherever you are on your journey and believe in cultivating space, and curiosity as we navigate this path together. I believe that understanding and compassion are vital for building trust, mutual respect, and openness, all of which are essential in forming a therapeutic relationship that can encourage change. ​
(808) 707-7839 View (808) 707-7839
Photo of Chie Takahashi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 96746, HI
Chie Takahashi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kapaa, HI 96746
We all encounter challenges and lessons in our lives. Like a life of a lotus flower, we grow through muddy water of lessons in order to blossom as a beautiful lotus flower. We all have the power to grow through the lessons the life present to us which make us strong and resilient. Together, we will navigate through the muddy water of trauma, anxiety, depression, identity, and challenging life circumstances. I will support you in your personal journey of creating your happiness, finding your true self and manifesting the life you love. You deserve living the life you love.
We all encounter challenges and lessons in our lives. Like a life of a lotus flower, we grow through muddy water of lessons in order to blossom as a beautiful lotus flower. We all have the power to grow through the lessons the life present to us which make us strong and resilient. Together, we will navigate through the muddy water of trauma, anxiety, depression, identity, and challenging life circumstances. I will support you in your personal journey of creating your happiness, finding your true self and manifesting the life you love. You deserve living the life you love.
(808) 201-2270 View (808) 201-2270

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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.