Culturally Sensitive Therapists in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC

Photo of Deborah A Leighton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Deborah A Leighton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Blakeney, Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
I began working in the fields of Addiction/Dual Diagnosis more than 35 years ago. Graduated from Syracuse University in Psychology; completed a master's program at ASU in Clinical Psychology. Graduated from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (MSW). Extensively trained/experience with family systems, addiction, dual diagnosis, expressive arts, grief/bereavement therapy, clinical supervision & relapse prevention. I enjoy creative challenges and have an innovative approach with clients that emphasize individuality, personal growth and change. Accepting Medicare, Tricare, CBHA, BCBS (PPO), UHC, & Optum.
I began working in the fields of Addiction/Dual Diagnosis more than 35 years ago. Graduated from Syracuse University in Psychology; completed a master's program at ASU in Clinical Psychology. Graduated from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (MSW). Extensively trained/experience with family systems, addiction, dual diagnosis, expressive arts, grief/bereavement therapy, clinical supervision & relapse prevention. I enjoy creative challenges and have an innovative approach with clients that emphasize individuality, personal growth and change. Accepting Medicare, Tricare, CBHA, BCBS (PPO), UHC, & Optum.
(704) 729-7214 View (704) 729-7214
Photo of Dee Dockery, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Dee Dockery
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Blakeney, Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
Psychology is a science and an art. I see therapy through the same lens. As specific as the brain can be there also has to be some flexibility to really understand how someone thinks. I worked in psychology research for 10 years and have been a therapist for 7 years. I am a National Certified Counselor, a Qualified Supervisor, and will be finishing my PhD in 2023. Most of my research and focus in therapy is centered around women’s issues and the ups and downs that can come with being a female.
Psychology is a science and an art. I see therapy through the same lens. As specific as the brain can be there also has to be some flexibility to really understand how someone thinks. I worked in psychology research for 10 years and have been a therapist for 7 years. I am a National Certified Counselor, a Qualified Supervisor, and will be finishing my PhD in 2023. Most of my research and focus in therapy is centered around women’s issues and the ups and downs that can come with being a female.
(704) 275-0899 View (704) 275-0899
Photo of Heather Tidwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Heather Tidwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Blakeney, Charlotte, NC 28277
Do you ever lay awake at night thinking about things you want to change, thinking about how you want to be happier, thinking that you wish someone understood what you were going through? I am here to help guide you through the process to begin working towards your desired change. I sincerely believe in treating the whole person and understand that many of us have experienced previous trauma/negative experiences, excessive worries that effects our ability to be what and who we want to be in many different areas of our lives.
Do you ever lay awake at night thinking about things you want to change, thinking about how you want to be happier, thinking that you wish someone understood what you were going through? I am here to help guide you through the process to begin working towards your desired change. I sincerely believe in treating the whole person and understand that many of us have experienced previous trauma/negative experiences, excessive worries that effects our ability to be what and who we want to be in many different areas of our lives.
(551) 231-7817 View (551) 231-7817
Photo of Alison Abbott, Counselor in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Alison Abbott
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blakeney, Charlotte, NC 28277
Now accepting new clients! Taking the first step into therapy can be the hardest. I am here to help individual clients, adolescents ages 11 and up, and adults, navigate this process with ease. Right now more than ever things can seem so out of ones control. My goal is to help you navigate life's ups and downs and transitions that are thrown your way. My passion lies in helping those experiencing issues with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, relationship (peer) issues, and behavioral issues (teens) and general life transitions.
Now accepting new clients! Taking the first step into therapy can be the hardest. I am here to help individual clients, adolescents ages 11 and up, and adults, navigate this process with ease. Right now more than ever things can seem so out of ones control. My goal is to help you navigate life's ups and downs and transitions that are thrown your way. My passion lies in helping those experiencing issues with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, relationship (peer) issues, and behavioral issues (teens) and general life transitions.
(704) 440-5880 View (704) 440-5880
Photo of Donna Murray, Counselor in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Donna Murray
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Blakeney, Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Donna Murray and I look forward to connecting with you. I’ve had the joy of working in the counseling field for over 25 years in multiple settings including: private practice, inpatient and outpatient, home-based, school-based and residential detox. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the states of Ohio, West Virginia and North Carolina and have been offering counseling services since 1996. Currently, I also serve on the West Virginia Certification Board for Addiction & Prevention Professionals.
Hello! My name is Donna Murray and I look forward to connecting with you. I’ve had the joy of working in the counseling field for over 25 years in multiple settings including: private practice, inpatient and outpatient, home-based, school-based and residential detox. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the states of Ohio, West Virginia and North Carolina and have been offering counseling services since 1996. Currently, I also serve on the West Virginia Certification Board for Addiction & Prevention Professionals.
(704) 826-3245 View (704) 826-3245
Photo of Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCMHC-S, LCAS, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Blakeney, Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
Experiencing family, work or relationship issues that are overwhelming, you’re not alone. Counseling can support you in Managing Stress & Anxiety. All services are online Due to the PANDEMIC... connect thru telehealth on your Electronic Device to our secure platform for A Safe Place to share, Learn and for support of your mental and emotional health. We are Open Mornings, Evenings and Saturdays - Serving NC and NJ.
(980) 338-4035 View (980) 338-4035
Photo of Hutton Life Coaching, Certified Life Coach in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Hutton Life Coaching, Certified Life Coach
RMT, MBA
Verified Verified
Blakeney, Charlotte, NC 28277
I help people with problems and passions. What are you looking for more of?? Love, joy, excitement, peace, connection, success?? A new job, new or improved relationship, better health? What are you looking for less of??? Stress, depression, anxiety, loneliness, frustration?? Bad habits? My clients typically feel stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated but are also ready and motivated to TRY SOMETHING NEW!!
I help people with problems and passions. What are you looking for more of?? Love, joy, excitement, peace, connection, success?? A new job, new or improved relationship, better health? What are you looking for less of??? Stress, depression, anxiety, loneliness, frustration?? Bad habits? My clients typically feel stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated but are also ready and motivated to TRY SOMETHING NEW!!
(704) 272-2301 View (704) 272-2301
Photo of Art of Care Counseling, Counselor in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Art of Care Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blakeney, Charlotte, NC 28277
No phone tag - please book a consultation or appointment on my website for a fast response. I respect all clients and convey that at each meeting. I know each person has a path I also believe each person has their answers; my responsibility is to assist them in finding those answers to stand by each client in their discoveries and meaning. I advocate entirely to Cure the Stigma of Therapy for all cultures. I welcome the journey with each client to a better day and a more peaceful self.
No phone tag - please book a consultation or appointment on my website for a fast response. I respect all clients and convey that at each meeting. I know each person has a path I also believe each person has their answers; my responsibility is to assist them in finding those answers to stand by each client in their discoveries and meaning. I advocate entirely to Cure the Stigma of Therapy for all cultures. I welcome the journey with each client to a better day and a more peaceful self.
(704) 870-0406 View (704) 870-0406
Photo of Danielle DeFrancesco, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Danielle DeFrancesco
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, NCC, CCMHC, MCAP, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blakeney, Charlotte, NC 28277
Danielle has dedicated her time to improving the mental health of persons of all ages (2 y.o. and up) and from all backgrounds. She has a passion for working with a wide range of emotional and behavioral disorders, and excels in treating complex childhood trauma. She also specializes in treating drug and alcohol addiction. Danielle believes in the power of advocacy and empathic listening as tools for change in the form of empowerment, self sufficiency, and self esteem. She combines evidenced based practices with creativity and holistic wellness, to create an environment conducive to meeting the unique needs of her clients.
Danielle has dedicated her time to improving the mental health of persons of all ages (2 y.o. and up) and from all backgrounds. She has a passion for working with a wide range of emotional and behavioral disorders, and excels in treating complex childhood trauma. She also specializes in treating drug and alcohol addiction. Danielle believes in the power of advocacy and empathic listening as tools for change in the form of empowerment, self sufficiency, and self esteem. She combines evidenced based practices with creativity and holistic wellness, to create an environment conducive to meeting the unique needs of her clients.
(704) 246-3254 View (704) 246-3254
Photo of Ava Pollack, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Ava Pollack
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blakeney, Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Thank you for showing up for yourself today! We can often benefit from processing some of life's challenges and allowing others to help carry the weight of our lived experiences. I believe that humans are resilient by nature, and adversity sometimes offers the opportunity to build upon existing strength. With openness, courage, and support, you can approach difficult emotions and adapt to uncertainty. If you have struggled with eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, life stressors, and/or trauma, I can help you find healing. I am a strong advocate for Health At Every Size.
Thank you for showing up for yourself today! We can often benefit from processing some of life's challenges and allowing others to help carry the weight of our lived experiences. I believe that humans are resilient by nature, and adversity sometimes offers the opportunity to build upon existing strength. With openness, courage, and support, you can approach difficult emotions and adapt to uncertainty. If you have struggled with eating disorders, disordered eating, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, life stressors, and/or trauma, I can help you find healing. I am a strong advocate for Health At Every Size.
(704) 419-8069 View (704) 419-8069

Online Therapists

Photo of Soul Wellness Services PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Soul Wellness Services PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Waitlist for new clients
I work from a strength-based, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed perspective and my primary approach to therapy is an integration of person-centered, mindfulness-based, and cognitive behavioral therapies.
Welcome to Soul Wellness Services! As a Black Caribbean woman, I'm aware of the social and cultural stigma often associated with mental health in our community. Issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss can be challenging to deal with. For Black and Indigenous People of Color, these issues are often compounded by the stress and emotional exhaustion of code-switching, racial trauma, racism, discrimination, and other challenges specific to our community.
I work from a strength-based, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed perspective and my primary approach to therapy is an integration of person-centered, mindfulness-based, and cognitive behavioral therapies.
Welcome to Soul Wellness Services! As a Black Caribbean woman, I'm aware of the social and cultural stigma often associated with mental health in our community. Issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss can be challenging to deal with. For Black and Indigenous People of Color, these issues are often compounded by the stress and emotional exhaustion of code-switching, racial trauma, racism, discrimination, and other challenges specific to our community.
(704) 859-2265 View (704) 859-2265
Photo of Delynn Turner in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Delynn Turner
MS, CGPC, CLC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
I understand that as a Grief Diversity Specialist for those individuals dealing with grief requires being culturally sensitive, empathetic and understanding.
My ideal client is one whom is willing and ready to take care of themselves emotionally, spiritually, and physically for proper growth. If you are in need of grief counseling then I am the counselor that can help you by creating a safe and inclusive space by offering cultural spaces to those of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, LGBT+ community and people of color. Many times people enjoy having the right counselor that comes with an intersectional approach, understands the historical trauma and recognizes the impact of ones sexual orientation and racial idenity on their experiences of grief.
I understand that as a Grief Diversity Specialist for those individuals dealing with grief requires being culturally sensitive, empathetic and understanding.
My ideal client is one whom is willing and ready to take care of themselves emotionally, spiritually, and physically for proper growth. If you are in need of grief counseling then I am the counselor that can help you by creating a safe and inclusive space by offering cultural spaces to those of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, LGBT+ community and people of color. Many times people enjoy having the right counselor that comes with an intersectional approach, understands the historical trauma and recognizes the impact of ones sexual orientation and racial idenity on their experiences of grief.
(980) 372-6655 View (980) 372-6655
Photo of Cofield Counseling and Clinical Supervision, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Cofield Counseling and Clinical Supervision
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28273  (Online Only)
I tailor my approach to your mental and emotional needs by providing individualized, culturally sensitive services to help you embrace your authentic self and equip you with new ways to navigate life.
Welcome to the first step in your healing journey! I specialize in helping clients rediscover themselves, work through unresolved issues, and cope with life transitions while providing an authentic, comfortable and supportive environment. I believe the counseling relationship is crucial in the healing journey and I provide a laid back and relatable approach to therapy. Together we will work to process long standing behavior patterns and negative perceptions that are impacting your life.
I tailor my approach to your mental and emotional needs by providing individualized, culturally sensitive services to help you embrace your authentic self and equip you with new ways to navigate life.
Welcome to the first step in your healing journey! I specialize in helping clients rediscover themselves, work through unresolved issues, and cope with life transitions while providing an authentic, comfortable and supportive environment. I believe the counseling relationship is crucial in the healing journey and I provide a laid back and relatable approach to therapy. Together we will work to process long standing behavior patterns and negative perceptions that are impacting your life.
(704) 237-6516 View (704) 237-6516
Photo of Carla Zerger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Carla Zerger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
It is important to me that I engage with you in a culturally sensitive, nonjudgmental, and professional way to create safety and trust in the therapeutic relationship.
I have always been passionate about helping people find solutions to complex problems. As a therapist, I help you find the clarity you need to make big decisions, navigate life transitions, and process emotionally difficult experiences. I have experience in outpatient therapy clinics as well as experience in residential settings with people who are living with PTSD. Our initial session will be a discussion about what brings you to therapy and what you’d like to change. Our work will be collaborative; you will have choice and autonomy along the way.
It is important to me that I engage with you in a culturally sensitive, nonjudgmental, and professional way to create safety and trust in the therapeutic relationship.
I have always been passionate about helping people find solutions to complex problems. As a therapist, I help you find the clarity you need to make big decisions, navigate life transitions, and process emotionally difficult experiences. I have experience in outpatient therapy clinics as well as experience in residential settings with people who are living with PTSD. Our initial session will be a discussion about what brings you to therapy and what you’d like to change. Our work will be collaborative; you will have choice and autonomy along the way.
(910) 407-7259 View (910) 407-7259
Photo of Justin Jaesung Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Justin Jaesung Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! My name is Justin and I want to personally acknowledge your strength, courage, and determination for taking this next step in seeking help. I believe that exploring therapy demonstrates your willingness to better understand yourself, your relationships, and the world around you. I am passionate about empowering people from all backgrounds through culturally sensitive treatment and being actively present throughout your enriching and powerful journey of healing and growth. As individuals face challenges that are unique to them, I engage them with a therapeutic approach that is both personalized and dynamic.
Hi! My name is Justin and I want to personally acknowledge your strength, courage, and determination for taking this next step in seeking help. I believe that exploring therapy demonstrates your willingness to better understand yourself, your relationships, and the world around you. I am passionate about empowering people from all backgrounds through culturally sensitive treatment and being actively present throughout your enriching and powerful journey of healing and growth. As individuals face challenges that are unique to them, I engage them with a therapeutic approach that is both personalized and dynamic.
(919) 873-3347 View (919) 873-3347
Photo of Na'imah Sedegah, Psychologist in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Na'imah Sedegah
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSP-P
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
Although my primary theoretical approach to treatment can be best described as cognitive-behavioral and evidenced-based, I also rely heavily on diverse, culturally sensitive methods and approaches that are proven to best fit the needs and goals of each unique person.
Life is full of peaks and valleys—good times and bad times. Through our mutual collaboration, let's work towards reaching your true potential all while avoiding those really low valleys that can get you down. My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. My areas of expertise include psychological assessment, relationships issues, work and educational performance concerns, as well as mood and behavior related issues. My goal is to empower you to improve your life, reach your peak potential, and build upon your innate strengths!
Although my primary theoretical approach to treatment can be best described as cognitive-behavioral and evidenced-based, I also rely heavily on diverse, culturally sensitive methods and approaches that are proven to best fit the needs and goals of each unique person.
Life is full of peaks and valleys—good times and bad times. Through our mutual collaboration, let's work towards reaching your true potential all while avoiding those really low valleys that can get you down. My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. My areas of expertise include psychological assessment, relationships issues, work and educational performance concerns, as well as mood and behavior related issues. My goal is to empower you to improve your life, reach your peak potential, and build upon your innate strengths!
(980) 372-6877 View (980) 372-6877
Photo of Tanisha Mann, Pre-Licensed Professional in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Tanisha Mann
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
I am pledging to be culturally sensitive about your mental health while striving to ensure to make small steps to progression.
Life is not about how many times you fall but how many times you get back up. The difficulties we face in life are different based on each individual perspective. Maintaining a smile while facing adversities can become overwhelming and tiring. Maybe you feel unseen, need help creating healthy boundaries, challenges with anxiety or depression, or making new life transitions. I am here to help clients learn effective coping skills for their issues and set goals to overcome obstacles in their life. My life experiences as an African American, and combat veteran will help to address any barriers that are interrupting your daily life.
I am pledging to be culturally sensitive about your mental health while striving to ensure to make small steps to progression.
Life is not about how many times you fall but how many times you get back up. The difficulties we face in life are different based on each individual perspective. Maintaining a smile while facing adversities can become overwhelming and tiring. Maybe you feel unseen, need help creating healthy boundaries, challenges with anxiety or depression, or making new life transitions. I am here to help clients learn effective coping skills for their issues and set goals to overcome obstacles in their life. My life experiences as an African American, and combat veteran will help to address any barriers that are interrupting your daily life.
(704) 396-8802 View (704) 396-8802
Photo of Patricia S. Duggan, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Patricia S. Duggan
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
My values and approaches are anti-oppressive, decolonizing, LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex-positive, trauma and culturally sensitive.
Often our hurtful experiences are out of our control. You didn’t choose to live with pain & society makes it hard to heal. You are tired of feeling alone and misunderstood. The reality is our experiences and memories can shape our beliefs and worldviews, creating guilt, anxiety, shame, anger, and isolation. Living with chronic pain, illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief – does impact us. Even if you don’t feel like it at this very moment, there is part of you that knows they deserve something more, whether it’s self-compassion, healthy connections, pleasure, joy, or the chance to move from surviving to thriving. Let's get curious.
My values and approaches are anti-oppressive, decolonizing, LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex-positive, trauma and culturally sensitive.
Often our hurtful experiences are out of our control. You didn’t choose to live with pain & society makes it hard to heal. You are tired of feeling alone and misunderstood. The reality is our experiences and memories can shape our beliefs and worldviews, creating guilt, anxiety, shame, anger, and isolation. Living with chronic pain, illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief – does impact us. Even if you don’t feel like it at this very moment, there is part of you that knows they deserve something more, whether it’s self-compassion, healthy connections, pleasure, joy, or the chance to move from surviving to thriving. Let's get curious.
(910) 400-1524 View (910) 400-1524
Photo of LaKesha Shingler Howell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
LaKesha Shingler Howell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , LISW-CP, LCAS
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Whether you need a confidential ear to vent or support; my mission is to help you improve your life. I provide compassion and a non-judgmental, culturally sensitive environment that allows others to express themselves, uncover the barriers to achieving happiness, stability and success. You don't have to continue living with your struggles. You can receive the help you need. I am here to assist you. Your happiness and improvements in your life is near. Step into Your Destiny!!
Whether you need a confidential ear to vent or support; my mission is to help you improve your life. I provide compassion and a non-judgmental, culturally sensitive environment that allows others to express themselves, uncover the barriers to achieving happiness, stability and success. You don't have to continue living with your struggles. You can receive the help you need. I am here to assist you. Your happiness and improvements in your life is near. Step into Your Destiny!!
(704) 910-0136 View (704) 910-0136
Photo of Sherrie A. Galloway, Licensed Professional Counselor in Blakeney, Charlotte, NC
Sherrie A. Galloway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
My practice is trauma-informed and culturally sensitive.
Are you having a difficult time dealing with life challenges? Are you overwhelmed and tired but you’re unable to pinpoint the reason? Deciding to pursue therapy can be overwhelming. As your therapist, I walk alongside you, sharing your journey through life's challenges. My treatment approaches are tailored to individual needs and are built on honesty, compassion and authenticity. By providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere, I aim to help every person with navigating through some of life's toughest challenges. I use a variety of approaches and techniques to fit clients based on their personality and needs.
My practice is trauma-informed and culturally sensitive.
Are you having a difficult time dealing with life challenges? Are you overwhelmed and tired but you’re unable to pinpoint the reason? Deciding to pursue therapy can be overwhelming. As your therapist, I walk alongside you, sharing your journey through life's challenges. My treatment approaches are tailored to individual needs and are built on honesty, compassion and authenticity. By providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere, I aim to help every person with navigating through some of life's toughest challenges. I use a variety of approaches and techniques to fit clients based on their personality and needs.
(704) 275-0727 View (704) 275-0727

See more therapy options for Blakeney, Charlotte

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.