Photo of Anne R Elliott, PhD, NCPsyA, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Anne R Elliott
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Are you seeking a culturally sensitive therapist who will not make stereotypical assumptions, but will honor your unique story, history and journey? Have you been told that therapy is for the weak or for those whose faith is not strong enough? Are you looking for a place where you can feel safe enough to say everything you need to without feeling as though you need to take care of the therapist?
Are you seeking a culturally sensitive therapist who will not make stereotypical assumptions, but will honor your unique story, history and journey? Have you been told that therapy is for the weak or for those whose faith is not strong enough? Are you looking for a place where you can feel safe enough to say everything you need to without feeling as though you need to take care of the therapist?
(914) 302-5834 View (914) 302-5834
Photo of Tanzina Rahman, LMSW
Tanzina Rahman
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10166
I offer culturally sensitive therapy and have experience working with, though not limited to, South Asians affected by nontraditional unions like arranged marriages.
I encourage you to get comfortable with discomfort by building resilience together. I know that therapy can be both daunting and uplifting. It requires you to open up in ways that can be painful but it's a process you don’t have to do alone. I will challenge you to restructure core beliefs and unlock hidden strengths. Together, we will navigate transitional moments in life, such as relationship conflicts, career issues, and complex family dynamics. My goal as a therapist is to work with individuals from all backgrounds experiencing trauma from systems of power. My therapeutic style is supportive, honest and collaborative.
I offer culturally sensitive therapy and have experience working with, though not limited to, South Asians affected by nontraditional unions like arranged marriages.
I encourage you to get comfortable with discomfort by building resilience together. I know that therapy can be both daunting and uplifting. It requires you to open up in ways that can be painful but it's a process you don’t have to do alone. I will challenge you to restructure core beliefs and unlock hidden strengths. Together, we will navigate transitional moments in life, such as relationship conflicts, career issues, and complex family dynamics. My goal as a therapist is to work with individuals from all backgrounds experiencing trauma from systems of power. My therapeutic style is supportive, honest and collaborative.
(718) 865-2496 View (718) 865-2496
Photo of Fredrick Bush, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fredrick Bush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Change is arduous, but it can be managed through personal assessment, individual reflection, establishing attainable objectives, and investigating new perspectives to repeated challenges that have a significant impact on life. ETC offers a mindfully candid, nonjudgmental and culturally sensitive environment for people of color to work through their adversities and frustrations. Individuals and couples with negative or stigmatized beliefs around emotional issues are encouraged to come in and consider the benefits of integrative counseling.
Change is arduous, but it can be managed through personal assessment, individual reflection, establishing attainable objectives, and investigating new perspectives to repeated challenges that have a significant impact on life. ETC offers a mindfully candid, nonjudgmental and culturally sensitive environment for people of color to work through their adversities and frustrations. Individuals and couples with negative or stigmatized beliefs around emotional issues are encouraged to come in and consider the benefits of integrative counseling.
(646) 362-1275 View (646) 362-1275
Photo of Alaa M. Shareef, MA, EdM, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alaa M. Shareef
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, EdM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manhasset, NY 11030
She uses a person-centered model coupled with an eclectic approach to integrate skills from multiple modalities while adapting her interventions to be culturally sensitive.
I believe that every individual has great potential and deserves to live a fulfilling life; I also recognize that difficulties and obstacles are inevitable. My goal for therapy is to create a safe space for my clients to explore how those difficulties and obstacles may affect them — physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually — and to use the therapeutic space to practice bringing forward their strengths so that they can see themselves beyond their problems. When you come to me, you’re not just my client. You’re a fellow human with hopes, dreams, vulnerabilities, strengths, weaknesses and ultimately potential.
She uses a person-centered model coupled with an eclectic approach to integrate skills from multiple modalities while adapting her interventions to be culturally sensitive.
I believe that every individual has great potential and deserves to live a fulfilling life; I also recognize that difficulties and obstacles are inevitable. My goal for therapy is to create a safe space for my clients to explore how those difficulties and obstacles may affect them — physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually — and to use the therapeutic space to practice bringing forward their strengths so that they can see themselves beyond their problems. When you come to me, you’re not just my client. You’re a fellow human with hopes, dreams, vulnerabilities, strengths, weaknesses and ultimately potential.
(516) 788-6170 View (516) 788-6170
Photo of Minze Huang, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Minze Huang
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Hi! I'm Minty, a Licensed Therapist in NY, NJ and CA state. I work with people from a diverse background using culturally sensitive approach -we learn from each other. I work with adults dealing with issues of depressive mood, low self-esteem, anxiety and stress, cultural adjustment, as well as relationship struggles. I also work with Children and Adolescent. I had clinical experience in hospital psychiatric department, outpatient clinic and public schools. I received training in Child Family Therapy from NYU and is in a 3 year post-master Child & Adolescent training program.
Hi! I'm Minty, a Licensed Therapist in NY, NJ and CA state. I work with people from a diverse background using culturally sensitive approach -we learn from each other. I work with adults dealing with issues of depressive mood, low self-esteem, anxiety and stress, cultural adjustment, as well as relationship struggles. I also work with Children and Adolescent. I had clinical experience in hospital psychiatric department, outpatient clinic and public schools. I received training in Child Family Therapy from NYU and is in a 3 year post-master Child & Adolescent training program.
(332) 900-3982 View (332) 900-3982
Photo of Dr. Ferdinand A. Madaki, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Dr. Ferdinand A. Madaki
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Pelham, NY 10803  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping clients explore the disparity between where they are now and where they want to be with their desired goals in life. I provide empathic listening, compassionate presence, and nonjudgmental support to my clients. I subscribe to the core values of trust, respect, empathy, warmth, and genuineness, which have been shown to elicit insight, healing, change, and growth in clients. My culturally sensitive approach makes me aware and appreciative of the layers of difference among the multiculturally diverse populations I work with.
I am passionate about helping clients explore the disparity between where they are now and where they want to be with their desired goals in life. I provide empathic listening, compassionate presence, and nonjudgmental support to my clients. I subscribe to the core values of trust, respect, empathy, warmth, and genuineness, which have been shown to elicit insight, healing, change, and growth in clients. My culturally sensitive approach makes me aware and appreciative of the layers of difference among the multiculturally diverse populations I work with.
(914) 483-5266 View (914) 483-5266
Photo of Awab Shawkat, MHC
Awab Shawkat
MHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I specialize in providing culturally sensitive therapy for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ individuals, focusing on OCD, anxiety, depression, and identity issues.
My ideal client is someone from a BIPOC or LGBTQIA+ community who feels marginalized, struggling with OCD, anxiety, depression, or identity issues. They need a culturally attuned therapist who understands their unique experiences and offers a safe, supportive space to explore their identity. Their goals include healing, self-discovery, and building resilience. They seek therapy to feel seen, heard, and empowered, wanting to co-create a path toward their best self, rooted in their cultural identity and personal experiences. They desire to thrive, not just survive, in today’s world.
I specialize in providing culturally sensitive therapy for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ individuals, focusing on OCD, anxiety, depression, and identity issues.
My ideal client is someone from a BIPOC or LGBTQIA+ community who feels marginalized, struggling with OCD, anxiety, depression, or identity issues. They need a culturally attuned therapist who understands their unique experiences and offers a safe, supportive space to explore their identity. Their goals include healing, self-discovery, and building resilience. They seek therapy to feel seen, heard, and empowered, wanting to co-create a path toward their best self, rooted in their cultural identity and personal experiences. They desire to thrive, not just survive, in today’s world.
(929) 547-3736 View (929) 547-3736
Photo of Rose Lugtu, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rose Lugtu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
Grounded in psychodynamics and mindfulness practice, my therapeutic style is client-centered, culturally sensitive, gentle, and collaborative.
Our social world can be an overwhelming, stressful place that leaves parts of ourselves unseen and unheard. I believe in creating a holding space, a place of openness and compassion, where you can dare to be yourself. In psychotherapy, we come together to better understand how elements of your internal and external worlds are interacting (or not interacting). Sometimes what has long been unseen and unheard can transform into awareness. Together, we can look at whatever emerges to find new ways of understanding your experiences. With care and support, small steps forward, however subtle, can yield transformation.
Grounded in psychodynamics and mindfulness practice, my therapeutic style is client-centered, culturally sensitive, gentle, and collaborative.
Our social world can be an overwhelming, stressful place that leaves parts of ourselves unseen and unheard. I believe in creating a holding space, a place of openness and compassion, where you can dare to be yourself. In psychotherapy, we come together to better understand how elements of your internal and external worlds are interacting (or not interacting). Sometimes what has long been unseen and unheard can transform into awareness. Together, we can look at whatever emerges to find new ways of understanding your experiences. With care and support, small steps forward, however subtle, can yield transformation.
(332) 895-1736 View (332) 895-1736
Photo of Mary Olivia Verhulst, LMHC, MA, PMH-C, Counselor
Mary Olivia Verhulst
Counselor, LMHC, MA, PMH-C
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
My approach is trauma-informed & culturally sensitive.
Now Accepting New Pts NY/ NJ/ FL. Starting with a new therapist can feel a little overwhelming for some. I will walk you through the process gently, transparently and with compassion. My goal is to build upon the resilience you already possess, that brought you here to ask for support you need in the first place. I may be a good fit if you are here seeking to heal from previous life traumas, manage work-life or family stress better, develop new coping/boundary skillsets, work through relationship patterns, or if you are struggling with maternal or paternal mental health concerns. Healing IS possible for you- and I am happy to help.
My approach is trauma-informed & culturally sensitive.
Now Accepting New Pts NY/ NJ/ FL. Starting with a new therapist can feel a little overwhelming for some. I will walk you through the process gently, transparently and with compassion. My goal is to build upon the resilience you already possess, that brought you here to ask for support you need in the first place. I may be a good fit if you are here seeking to heal from previous life traumas, manage work-life or family stress better, develop new coping/boundary skillsets, work through relationship patterns, or if you are struggling with maternal or paternal mental health concerns. Healing IS possible for you- and I am happy to help.
(332) 263-3620 View (332) 263-3620
Photo of Earl D O'Brien Jr, MHC-LP, CCATP
Earl D O'Brien Jr
MHC-LP, CCATP
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747  (Online Only)
My varied background in counseling and research will help you through techniques that are accepting, emotionally guiding, culturally sensitive, strengths based, motivational, and solution focused.
Do you desire to be your whole and authentic self? Let's connect! Do feelings of wrath, anxiety, despair, and/or excessive stress weigh you down? Is there trouble in paradise? You can still have faith. Human beings are social creatures. Talking to a professional who cares can be the catalyst for positive, long-lasting change. My hope in working with you is that together we will be able to overcome whatever is holding you back from becoming the kind of person, spouse, parent, and/or professional that you want to be.
My varied background in counseling and research will help you through techniques that are accepting, emotionally guiding, culturally sensitive, strengths based, motivational, and solution focused.
Do you desire to be your whole and authentic self? Let's connect! Do feelings of wrath, anxiety, despair, and/or excessive stress weigh you down? Is there trouble in paradise? You can still have faith. Human beings are social creatures. Talking to a professional who cares can be the catalyst for positive, long-lasting change. My hope in working with you is that together we will be able to overcome whatever is holding you back from becoming the kind of person, spouse, parent, and/or professional that you want to be.
(347) 609-7512 View (347) 609-7512
Photo of Hena Ali-Bernard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hena Ali-Bernard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375
With expertise in trauma-informed care, CBT, family systems therapy, and strength-based approaches, I offer culturally sensitive, personalized treatment tailored to each client's needs.
Life can be overwhelming, often leading to struggles with confidence, mood, and navigating personal or professional challenges. If you’re feeling stuck or uncertain, finding a therapist you can trust is essential for healing. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space where we can address your unique needs, whether you’re seeking relief from anxiety, improving self-esteem, or working through life transitions. Together, we’ll form a partnership, with you as the expert in your own life. My role is to support your growth, helping you use your strengths and insights to achieve your goals and thrive.
With expertise in trauma-informed care, CBT, family systems therapy, and strength-based approaches, I offer culturally sensitive, personalized treatment tailored to each client's needs.
Life can be overwhelming, often leading to struggles with confidence, mood, and navigating personal or professional challenges. If you’re feeling stuck or uncertain, finding a therapist you can trust is essential for healing. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space where we can address your unique needs, whether you’re seeking relief from anxiety, improving self-esteem, or working through life transitions. Together, we’ll form a partnership, with you as the expert in your own life. My role is to support your growth, helping you use your strengths and insights to achieve your goals and thrive.
(646) 798-5259 View (646) 798-5259
Photo of Cherie Brown, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cherie Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11212  (Online Only)
My therapeutic style is a collaborative, client-centered and culturally sensitive approach.
Life can feel like a cluster of challenging, confusing, and never-ending hurdles. When left to tackle them on your own, it can sometimes feel draining and overwhelming. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate, and empowering space to process past difficulties, current stressors, and future anxieties. I aim to create an atmosphere of emotional safety, trust, and respect.
My therapeutic style is a collaborative, client-centered and culturally sensitive approach.
Life can feel like a cluster of challenging, confusing, and never-ending hurdles. When left to tackle them on your own, it can sometimes feel draining and overwhelming. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate, and empowering space to process past difficulties, current stressors, and future anxieties. I aim to create an atmosphere of emotional safety, trust, and respect.
(929) 810-2985 View (929) 810-2985
Photo of Katarzyna Fiorita, LMHC, CASAC M, EMDR 3, FOT, ICADC, Counselor
Katarzyna Fiorita
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC M, EMDR 3, FOT, ICADC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211
I work from a collaborative strength-based relational approach and utilize active listening, process therapy, body center therapy like Focusing Oriented Relational Therapy, EMDR, spiritual and culturally sensitive experience.
Therapy is a wonderful experience being with someone who can hold space for you, guide you and support your grow. There are many life areas where therapy could be helpful. In my practice, we work collaboratively to create a safe non-judgmental space, learn how to slow down, listen to your body, listen to ourselves, develop new insight on our problems, create fresh language which can describe our process, learn coping skills, access inner wisdom. We develop a therapeutic relationship which will support our process with gaining clarity, relief, balance, inner peace, hope and reconnecting with all parts of us which are suffering.
I work from a collaborative strength-based relational approach and utilize active listening, process therapy, body center therapy like Focusing Oriented Relational Therapy, EMDR, spiritual and culturally sensitive experience.
Therapy is a wonderful experience being with someone who can hold space for you, guide you and support your grow. There are many life areas where therapy could be helpful. In my practice, we work collaboratively to create a safe non-judgmental space, learn how to slow down, listen to your body, listen to ourselves, develop new insight on our problems, create fresh language which can describe our process, learn coping skills, access inner wisdom. We develop a therapeutic relationship which will support our process with gaining clarity, relief, balance, inner peace, hope and reconnecting with all parts of us which are suffering.
(646) 681-5598 View (646) 681-5598
Photo of Jolie Avena - Avena Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Avena Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10005  (Online Only)
At Avena Psychological Services, we work with individuals and couples seeking support and guidance as they work toward personal goals and lasting change. We understand that the decision to seek therapy can take a great deal of courage and commitment, and it is our distinct pleasure to be considered as part of your journey toward personal growth. We are committed to providing therapy of the highest quality, and are dedicated to helping you navigate the process every step of the way. We believe the most important aspect of an effective and satisfying therapy experience is the quality of the relationship between the therapist and the
At Avena Psychological Services, we work with individuals and couples seeking support and guidance as they work toward personal goals and lasting change. We understand that the decision to seek therapy can take a great deal of courage and commitment, and it is our distinct pleasure to be considered as part of your journey toward personal growth. We are committed to providing therapy of the highest quality, and are dedicated to helping you navigate the process every step of the way. We believe the most important aspect of an effective and satisfying therapy experience is the quality of the relationship between the therapist and the
(646) 859-4919 View (646) 859-4919
Photo of Payal Dalal
Payal Dalal
Licensed Master Social Worker
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I am deeply committed to providing inclusive and culturally sensitive therapy and have worked with individuals and couples from various backgrounds.
Life can feel overwhelming or complicated. You may be feeling stuck or weighed down by work or relationships, or you may be struggling to change behaviors that prevent you from achieving your goals. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trouble with relationships, trauma, or other mental health issues, I am here to help. Seeking therapy is a step forward in working on yourself and gaining a better understanding of your thoughts and emotions.
I am deeply committed to providing inclusive and culturally sensitive therapy and have worked with individuals and couples from various backgrounds.
Life can feel overwhelming or complicated. You may be feeling stuck or weighed down by work or relationships, or you may be struggling to change behaviors that prevent you from achieving your goals. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trouble with relationships, trauma, or other mental health issues, I am here to help. Seeking therapy is a step forward in working on yourself and gaining a better understanding of your thoughts and emotions.
(929) 930-2126 View (929) 930-2126
Photo of Elaine Garbaty, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine Garbaty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10029  (Online Only)
I earned a master's degree in social work in 1982 and have subsequently pursued advanced training in relational psychotherapy and trauma and gender-informed care with adolescents and adults. My treatment approach is built on the uniqueness of each client regarding their strengths and emotional needs and will use other methods to optimize treatment. My approach to therapy utilizes Attachment-based, Culturally Sensitive, Eclectic, Humanistic, Psychoanalytic, Psychodynamic, Relational, Integrative or Integral Psychotherapy, Object Relations, and Supportive.
I earned a master's degree in social work in 1982 and have subsequently pursued advanced training in relational psychotherapy and trauma and gender-informed care with adolescents and adults. My treatment approach is built on the uniqueness of each client regarding their strengths and emotional needs and will use other methods to optimize treatment. My approach to therapy utilizes Attachment-based, Culturally Sensitive, Eclectic, Humanistic, Psychoanalytic, Psychodynamic, Relational, Integrative or Integral Psychotherapy, Object Relations, and Supportive.
(646) 718-2457 View (646) 718-2457
Photo of Susan Marie Horvatits, LMHC, LPC, NYSCPS, Counselor
Susan Marie Horvatits
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NYSCPS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bay Shore, NY 11706  (Online Only)
The most integral aspect of counseling is coming from a person centered, peer and trauma informed focus that is collaborative and culturally sensitive, meaning, providing you with the autonomy and agency to decide what coping skills, care, and approach is best suited for you. Working as a team is imperative in order for each session to feel like a conversation and not something purely clinical. Providing you with resources you need and desire, along with actively listening, being empathic, and present, creates the ideal atmosphere for healing. It is my honor and privilege to be of assistance to you.
The most integral aspect of counseling is coming from a person centered, peer and trauma informed focus that is collaborative and culturally sensitive, meaning, providing you with the autonomy and agency to decide what coping skills, care, and approach is best suited for you. Working as a team is imperative in order for each session to feel like a conversation and not something purely clinical. Providing you with resources you need and desire, along with actively listening, being empathic, and present, creates the ideal atmosphere for healing. It is my honor and privilege to be of assistance to you.
(631) 405-7043 View (631) 405-7043
Photo of Yizhao Sheng, LCSW, CASAC-M, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yizhao Sheng
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC-M
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10013  (Online Only)
I create a safe, empathetic and culturally sensitive space where you can feel comfortable to share and discuss your thoughts, emotions, and past experiences.
You may struggle with your life recently and feel it’s hard to live a fulfilling life. You may find yourself with more conflicts with your loved ones recently. You may find you are drinking or smoking more often and your friends & family have become worried about you recently. You are not alone and I am here to help you. I have more than 8 years of clinical experience working with children, teenagers and adults experiencing a wide range of issues related to substance use, anger, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship and family conflicts. Together we will find new ways to cope with life’s challenges, and achieve your goals.
I create a safe, empathetic and culturally sensitive space where you can feel comfortable to share and discuss your thoughts, emotions, and past experiences.
You may struggle with your life recently and feel it’s hard to live a fulfilling life. You may find yourself with more conflicts with your loved ones recently. You may find you are drinking or smoking more often and your friends & family have become worried about you recently. You are not alone and I am here to help you. I have more than 8 years of clinical experience working with children, teenagers and adults experiencing a wide range of issues related to substance use, anger, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship and family conflicts. Together we will find new ways to cope with life’s challenges, and achieve your goals.
(929) 732-7028 View (929) 732-7028
Photo of Amy Michelle Rosenthal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Michelle Rosenthal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10038
Sometimes life feels challenging, especially if you feel alone or overwhelmed. The impact of a difficult childhood, complex family dynamics, trauma, a stressful/unsatisfying job or relationship, or the transition to parenting can add additional stressors. Whether your usual coping methods aren't working anymore, or you've noticed repeating patterns that aren't getting you where you'd like to be, we can explore these and any other issues you are facing. Together, we'll improve your ability to articulate your feelings, reflect on your reactions and behaviors, and gain insights that will lead you to a more peaceful and satisfying life.
Sometimes life feels challenging, especially if you feel alone or overwhelmed. The impact of a difficult childhood, complex family dynamics, trauma, a stressful/unsatisfying job or relationship, or the transition to parenting can add additional stressors. Whether your usual coping methods aren't working anymore, or you've noticed repeating patterns that aren't getting you where you'd like to be, we can explore these and any other issues you are facing. Together, we'll improve your ability to articulate your feelings, reflect on your reactions and behaviors, and gain insights that will lead you to a more peaceful and satisfying life.
(929) 254-4207 View (929) 254-4207
Photo of Nikki Kleitzel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nikki Kleitzel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is collaborative and is rooted in interpersonal, psychodynamic, strength-based, trauma-informed, culturally sensitive and gender-affirming theories.
Welcome to my page! I am a 2nd generation therapist who works with adult professionals of all ages who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, transitional issues, and relationship/family issues. I also have extensive experience working with adults suffering from acute and chronic illness, as well as helping individuals navigate death and process grief/bereavement.
My approach to therapy is collaborative and is rooted in interpersonal, psychodynamic, strength-based, trauma-informed, culturally sensitive and gender-affirming theories.
Welcome to my page! I am a 2nd generation therapist who works with adult professionals of all ages who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, transitional issues, and relationship/family issues. I also have extensive experience working with adults suffering from acute and chronic illness, as well as helping individuals navigate death and process grief/bereavement.
(718) 550-4601 View (718) 550-4601
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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.