Photo of Empowered and Resilient Minds, LLC , Licensed Master Social Worker in Sullivan County, NY
Empowered and Resilient Minds, LLC
Licensed Master Social Worker, LCSW
Verified Verified
Liberty, NY 12754
Hi! I'm Lynn and I am the founder of Empowered and Resilient Minds. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with clients from various stages of life who experience depression, anxiety, ADHD, learning disabilities, and relationship as well as emotional difficulties.
Hi! I'm Lynn and I am the founder of Empowered and Resilient Minds. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with clients from various stages of life who experience depression, anxiety, ADHD, learning disabilities, and relationship as well as emotional difficulties.
(845) 420-3084 View (845) 420-3084
Photo of Adam J Shecter, Licensed Master Social Worker in Sullivan County, NY
Adam J Shecter
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, MSEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forestburgh, NY 12777
I am passionate about working with young people and members of the LGBTQ+ community. As a former educator, I have extensive experience working with youth, and specialize in issues related to adolescence, young adulthood, coming out, queer identities, perfectionism, self-image, and learning disabilities. I am well-versed in integrated therapeutic practices which involve connecting current challenges with personal history and combining cognitive therapy with meditation and mindfulness training. Also, the handsome fella in the pic is Hud, our rescue pup. He's generally happier than he looks in the picture, I promise.
I am passionate about working with young people and members of the LGBTQ+ community. As a former educator, I have extensive experience working with youth, and specialize in issues related to adolescence, young adulthood, coming out, queer identities, perfectionism, self-image, and learning disabilities. I am well-versed in integrated therapeutic practices which involve connecting current challenges with personal history and combining cognitive therapy with meditation and mindfulness training. Also, the handsome fella in the pic is Hud, our rescue pup. He's generally happier than he looks in the picture, I promise.
(332) 244-4183 View (332) 244-4183
Photo of John Carroll, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sullivan County, NY
John Carroll
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Callicoon, NY 12723
My goal is to arm you with tools to find a more fulfilling way of living; therapeutic tools that follow you out of my office door and into your life. I have learned firsthand how a strong therapeutic relationship can create an opportunity for transformative change. That is why the alliance between therapist and client is of utmost importance to me. By integrating clinical theory, mindfulness, and yes, even humor, I help clients cultivate insight, self-acceptance, healthy boundaries, increased intimacy, and clarity of direction allowing depression, anxiety, and relationship problems to be relieved.
My goal is to arm you with tools to find a more fulfilling way of living; therapeutic tools that follow you out of my office door and into your life. I have learned firsthand how a strong therapeutic relationship can create an opportunity for transformative change. That is why the alliance between therapist and client is of utmost importance to me. By integrating clinical theory, mindfulness, and yes, even humor, I help clients cultivate insight, self-acceptance, healthy boundaries, increased intimacy, and clarity of direction allowing depression, anxiety, and relationship problems to be relieved.
(914) 252-3978 View (914) 252-3978

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Jennifer Coppola, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sullivan County, NY
Dr. Jennifer Coppola
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
I am an affirmative therapist who provides family, couple, and individual therapy to people of all ages and identities. As a social justice oriented clinician, I work towards providing emotionally focused and culturally sensitive interventions. I have specialty training in supporting the LGBQ, transgender, and gender diverse/expansive communities. I also specialize in couples therapy, using my published theory of couples therapy but also tailoring my approach to be client driven. Through teletherapy I work with couples and families across New York State. I provide superbills for out of network benefits.
I am an affirmative therapist who provides family, couple, and individual therapy to people of all ages and identities. As a social justice oriented clinician, I work towards providing emotionally focused and culturally sensitive interventions. I have specialty training in supporting the LGBQ, transgender, and gender diverse/expansive communities. I also specialize in couples therapy, using my published theory of couples therapy but also tailoring my approach to be client driven. Through teletherapy I work with couples and families across New York State. I provide superbills for out of network benefits.
(315) 366-4855 View (315) 366-4855
Photo of Rose Lugtu in Sullivan County, NY
Rose Lugtu
MA, MFT-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
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 Heather Garber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sullivan County, NY
Heather Garber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CCATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018  (Online Only)
I use a culturally sensitive, client-centered approach to help empower and guide clients through the process of change.
I work with individuals who find themselves stuck, or struggling with work, relationships, family, loss, and identity issues. Are you feeling anxious or depressed due to recent challenges in your life? Have you been struggling with self-confidence, purpose or direction in in our current times? Do you find yourself dealing with the difficulties of being part of a marginalized and/or stigmatized community? Starting therapy can be overwhelming and intimidating. However, it can also be the beginning of a self-exploration and discovery that leads to a more fulfilling, purposeful and balanced life.
I use a culturally sensitive, client-centered approach to help empower and guide clients through the process of change.
I work with individuals who find themselves stuck, or struggling with work, relationships, family, loss, and identity issues. Are you feeling anxious or depressed due to recent challenges in your life? Have you been struggling with self-confidence, purpose or direction in in our current times? Do you find yourself dealing with the difficulties of being part of a marginalized and/or stigmatized community? Starting therapy can be overwhelming and intimidating. However, it can also be the beginning of a self-exploration and discovery that leads to a more fulfilling, purposeful and balanced life.
(914) 999-6636 View (914) 999-6636
Photo of Jim Hayes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sullivan County, NY
Jim Hayes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
I am committed to providing a safe, culturally sensitive working environment that fosters this exploration.
An exciting moment happens in therapy when a personal challenge is examined from a renewed perspective. In that moment, what once seemed difficult can take on new meaning. It has the potential to become a defining moment that inspires continued change, growth, and healing. Furthering this process is the potential realization that these ideas were already innate and just awaiting connection.
I am committed to providing a safe, culturally sensitive working environment that fosters this exploration.
An exciting moment happens in therapy when a personal challenge is examined from a renewed perspective. In that moment, what once seemed difficult can take on new meaning. It has the potential to become a defining moment that inspires continued change, growth, and healing. Furthering this process is the potential realization that these ideas were already innate and just awaiting connection.
(718) 790-4758 View (718) 790-4758
Photo of Sarah N Baquet, Counselor in Sullivan County, NY
Sarah N Baquet
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11105  (Online Only)
My approach is rooted in an integrative humanistic and culturally sensitive theoretical lens.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (PhD, LMHC, NCC) who works with adults, emerging adults, and older adolescents navigating the healing process surrounding mood disorders/issues, life/career transitions, generational trauma, identity exploration, and relationship difficulties. Empathy, genuine concern for you and your past and present lived experiences, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard are at the forefront of our relationship.
My approach is rooted in an integrative humanistic and culturally sensitive theoretical lens.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (PhD, LMHC, NCC) who works with adults, emerging adults, and older adolescents navigating the healing process surrounding mood disorders/issues, life/career transitions, generational trauma, identity exploration, and relationship difficulties. Empathy, genuine concern for you and your past and present lived experiences, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard are at the forefront of our relationship.
(516) 715-1826 View (516) 715-1826
Photo of Mona El-Shahat, Counselor in Sullivan County, NY
Mona El-Shahat
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forest Hills, NY 11375  (Online Only)
About Mona El-Shahat, LMHC, NCC. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who believes therapy is a collaborative journey. I take a person-centered, holistic, empathetic and culturally sensitive approach to help clients work towards achieving their goals. I operate from a multicultural lens and utilize a client-centered, trauma informed approach in my work. I provide a confidential, open-minded and supportive space where you will feel seen, heard and understood. Through this collaborative journey we will work on setting and meeting your goals.
About Mona El-Shahat, LMHC, NCC. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who believes therapy is a collaborative journey. I take a person-centered, holistic, empathetic and culturally sensitive approach to help clients work towards achieving their goals. I operate from a multicultural lens and utilize a client-centered, trauma informed approach in my work. I provide a confidential, open-minded and supportive space where you will feel seen, heard and understood. Through this collaborative journey we will work on setting and meeting your goals.
(929) 207-5812 View (929) 207-5812
Photo of Cynthia Shaw, Psychologist in Sullivan County, NY
Cynthia Shaw
Psychologist, PsyD, CGP, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
In therapy, you'll be provided direct, individualized, culturally sensitive, and trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling with anxiety or existential angst after a major life change? Have you recently graduated, moved to a new city, or been diagnosed with a health condition and feel groundless, stuck, or lost? Are you struggling to form deep connections due to confusion and low confidence about your identity and purpose? Do you want to feel confident, successful, and connected? I am a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist who focuses on increasing insight, self-understanding, and meaning. I work well with individuals struggling with low self-esteem, unfulfilling relationships, life change, grief & loss, and meaning-making.
In therapy, you'll be provided direct, individualized, culturally sensitive, and trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling with anxiety or existential angst after a major life change? Have you recently graduated, moved to a new city, or been diagnosed with a health condition and feel groundless, stuck, or lost? Are you struggling to form deep connections due to confusion and low confidence about your identity and purpose? Do you want to feel confident, successful, and connected? I am a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist who focuses on increasing insight, self-understanding, and meaning. I work well with individuals struggling with low self-esteem, unfulfilling relationships, life change, grief & loss, and meaning-making.
(929) 605-4235 View (929) 605-4235
Photo of Martin R Pierre, Psychologist in Sullivan County, NY
Martin R Pierre
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11238
I utilize a culturally sensitive cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused approach to treatment.
I have the privilege of accompanying clients as they go through some of the most painful and some of the most joyous times of their lives. I see therapy as a journey that the client and therapist take together with the therapist playing the role of a traveling companion, guide, and interpreter. I have extensive experience providing counseling services to adolescents, adults, and families in various clinical settings. The focus of treatment includes improving self-image, changing negative self-talk, and working through trauma. My approach is collaborative, working together to define and achieve therapy goals.
I utilize a culturally sensitive cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused approach to treatment.
I have the privilege of accompanying clients as they go through some of the most painful and some of the most joyous times of their lives. I see therapy as a journey that the client and therapist take together with the therapist playing the role of a traveling companion, guide, and interpreter. I have extensive experience providing counseling services to adolescents, adults, and families in various clinical settings. The focus of treatment includes improving self-image, changing negative self-talk, and working through trauma. My approach is collaborative, working together to define and achieve therapy goals.
(929) 605-6147 View (929) 605-6147
Photo of Kathryn Bruning, Counselor in Sullivan County, NY
Kathryn Bruning
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
I am a seasoned Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 20 years’ experience providing supportive, effective, culturally sensitive therapy to clients.
I help my clients improve and repair relationships, alleviate stress and anxiety, identify and challenge maladaptive thoughts and behaviors, and ultimately find the inner strength to live their best lives. Understanding that our experiences aren’t just held in memories to be processed or discarded, I integrate psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Positive Psychology and Strength Based, Feminist Therapy models to provide the space for clients to transform.
I am a seasoned Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 20 years’ experience providing supportive, effective, culturally sensitive therapy to clients.
I help my clients improve and repair relationships, alleviate stress and anxiety, identify and challenge maladaptive thoughts and behaviors, and ultimately find the inner strength to live their best lives. Understanding that our experiences aren’t just held in memories to be processed or discarded, I integrate psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Positive Psychology and Strength Based, Feminist Therapy models to provide the space for clients to transform.
(914) 350-4992 View (914) 350-4992
Photo of Stephanie Maria Peña, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sullivan County, NY
Stephanie Maria Peña
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242  (Online Only)
I support BIPOC individuals in an open-minded, culturally sensitive, intersectional, anti-racist & LGBTQ-affirmative manner.
I offer a non-judgmental, compassionate, and encouraging environment to assist LGBTQ BIPOC individuals through whatever difficulties they may be confronting. Together we will collaboratively explore tools and strategies that will help you feel better about yourself, have better relationships, and experience more joy. I am a bilingual, bicultural, queer Afro-Latina cis-woman. In my practice, I bring together evidence-informed techniques and a social justice lens.
I support BIPOC individuals in an open-minded, culturally sensitive, intersectional, anti-racist & LGBTQ-affirmative manner.
I offer a non-judgmental, compassionate, and encouraging environment to assist LGBTQ BIPOC individuals through whatever difficulties they may be confronting. Together we will collaboratively explore tools and strategies that will help you feel better about yourself, have better relationships, and experience more joy. I am a bilingual, bicultural, queer Afro-Latina cis-woman. In my practice, I bring together evidence-informed techniques and a social justice lens.
(347) 695-8356 View (347) 695-8356
Photo of Allison Seo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Sullivan County, NY
Allison Seo
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
I am especially committed to practicing culturally sensitive therapy that places you as the expert of your own experiences and prioritizes your goals as we work together collaboratively.
Welcome to Allied Psychotherapy Group Practice! I am a psychotherapist who is committed to creating a safe space for healing and reflection. It may be difficult to cope with strong emotions amidst different life experiences and transitions. As your therapist, I want to work with you to understand yourself on a deeper level and find pathways to healing that feel empowering given these realities.
I am especially committed to practicing culturally sensitive therapy that places you as the expert of your own experiences and prioritizes your goals as we work together collaboratively.
Welcome to Allied Psychotherapy Group Practice! I am a psychotherapist who is committed to creating a safe space for healing and reflection. It may be difficult to cope with strong emotions amidst different life experiences and transitions. As your therapist, I want to work with you to understand yourself on a deeper level and find pathways to healing that feel empowering given these realities.
(646) 452-9414 View (646) 452-9414
Photo of Catherine Foley in Sullivan County, NY
Catherine Foley
MS, MFT-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
My practice is person-centered, strengths-based, trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, & guided by principles of both accountability & radical acceptance.
Thank you for considering me as part of your community of care. I am eager to collaborate with you with compassion and presence as we consider the complexities you are navigating, while we get curious about ways to build nourishment, healing, and regeneration in your life. Affirming your sense of agency and identity, and your capacity to thrive is paramount to my approach. I specialize in working with queer and trans individuals, couples, and families. Other areas of expertise include neurodivergence, relationship diversity and sex therapy, life transitions and adjustment, perinatal support, and grief and loss.
My practice is person-centered, strengths-based, trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, & guided by principles of both accountability & radical acceptance.
Thank you for considering me as part of your community of care. I am eager to collaborate with you with compassion and presence as we consider the complexities you are navigating, while we get curious about ways to build nourishment, healing, and regeneration in your life. Affirming your sense of agency and identity, and your capacity to thrive is paramount to my approach. I specialize in working with queer and trans individuals, couples, and families. Other areas of expertise include neurodivergence, relationship diversity and sex therapy, life transitions and adjustment, perinatal support, and grief and loss.
(929) 429-4856 View (929) 429-4856
Photo of Patricia Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sullivan County, NY
Patricia Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Middletown, NY 10940
I am experienced, knowledgeable, culturally sensitive, and creative.
“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” (Anais Nin). I celebrate your efforts to take stock of your life, to take a deep breath, and to take the risk to reach out. Emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual pain gives us an opportunity for healing, learning, and growth. Often what feels like something overwhelming and upsetting is about to give you Clarity. I provide a safe environment for openness, self-exploration, and movement forward. I am happy to partner with you in this work.
I am experienced, knowledgeable, culturally sensitive, and creative.
“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” (Anais Nin). I celebrate your efforts to take stock of your life, to take a deep breath, and to take the risk to reach out. Emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual pain gives us an opportunity for healing, learning, and growth. Often what feels like something overwhelming and upsetting is about to give you Clarity. I provide a safe environment for openness, self-exploration, and movement forward. I am happy to partner with you in this work.
(845) 640-5560 View (845) 640-5560
Photo of Jenny Bhatia in Sullivan County, NY
Jenny Bhatia
MA, MFT-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Island City, NY 11106  (Online Only)
Through my culturally sensitive approach, I actively empower women to prioritize their mental well-being while honoring their family dynamics and cultural values.
Are you a South Asian or Middle Eastern woman living in New York and facing unique challenges in giving therapy a chance due to cultural traditions and stigma? Are you having difficulty navigating significant life transitions such as new family members, in-laws, or being ambitious while also being a devoted wife? Do you often face immense pressure to conform to family expectations or adhere to traditional gender roles or cultural norms? Do you want to pursue a life that aligns with your values, passions and aspirations? As a South Asian woman myself, I get it! And I specialize in helping clients achieve all of those goals.
Through my culturally sensitive approach, I actively empower women to prioritize their mental well-being while honoring their family dynamics and cultural values.
Are you a South Asian or Middle Eastern woman living in New York and facing unique challenges in giving therapy a chance due to cultural traditions and stigma? Are you having difficulty navigating significant life transitions such as new family members, in-laws, or being ambitious while also being a devoted wife? Do you often face immense pressure to conform to family expectations or adhere to traditional gender roles or cultural norms? Do you want to pursue a life that aligns with your values, passions and aspirations? As a South Asian woman myself, I get it! And I specialize in helping clients achieve all of those goals.
(332) 330-0977 View (332) 330-0977
Photo of Hiba Khan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Sullivan County, NY
Hiba Khan
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainview, NY 11803
I've got experience working with many different communities and can speak from a culturally sensitive approach.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who understands the difficulty in making the decision to start your therapeutic journey. You're doing great by taking your first step and choosing to see a therapist! As a therapist I believe in creating a safe space where my clients feel like they can learn more about themselves and reach their personal goals. It's also okay if you don't know what those goals look like. Vulnerability is a strength and I like to work from a strength-based approach. I have experience working with families, couples, individuals and children. I am passionate about my work and look forward to learning more about you.
I've got experience working with many different communities and can speak from a culturally sensitive approach.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist who understands the difficulty in making the decision to start your therapeutic journey. You're doing great by taking your first step and choosing to see a therapist! As a therapist I believe in creating a safe space where my clients feel like they can learn more about themselves and reach their personal goals. It's also okay if you don't know what those goals look like. Vulnerability is a strength and I like to work from a strength-based approach. I have experience working with families, couples, individuals and children. I am passionate about my work and look forward to learning more about you.
(516) 550-5147 View (516) 550-5147
Photo of Monique Evans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sullivan County, NY
Monique Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I operate from a culturally sensitive and anti-oppressive lens.
We all go through things, and in therapy I can help you confront the difficulties you are trying to manage. I specialize in providing individual, couples, and family therapy. I have experience working with clients of all age groups across the lifespan. Some of these issues may be couples' communication issues, grief/bereavement, life transitions, and discord in personal and professional relationships to name a few. We tend to put others before ourselves and neglect our own needs in the process, including seeking therapy. Let me show you how to break these cycles in your therapy journey.
I operate from a culturally sensitive and anti-oppressive lens.
We all go through things, and in therapy I can help you confront the difficulties you are trying to manage. I specialize in providing individual, couples, and family therapy. I have experience working with clients of all age groups across the lifespan. Some of these issues may be couples' communication issues, grief/bereavement, life transitions, and discord in personal and professional relationships to name a few. We tend to put others before ourselves and neglect our own needs in the process, including seeking therapy. Let me show you how to break these cycles in your therapy journey.
(929) 930-3734 View (929) 930-3734
Photo of Lina Coleman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sullivan County, NY
Lina Coleman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Harrison, NY 10528
Client-Centered, Culturally Sensitive, Systemic Approach exploring individual, relational, familial, social/interactional patterns, symptoms and or environmental factors impacting wellbeing and overall psychological, emotional and behavioral balance.
Experienced Clinician in Private Practice for Individuals, Couples and Families, Skilled in Family Life Cycles/Stages/Transitions, Blended Families, Anxiety & Trauma, Life Stressors, Depression, Grief & Loss, Relationship Issues, Parenting Challenges (single or co-parenting), Behavioral Issues, Crisis Intervention and Family Interactional Challenges, Interpersonal Conflict, Communication Problems
Client-Centered, Culturally Sensitive, Systemic Approach exploring individual, relational, familial, social/interactional patterns, symptoms and or environmental factors impacting wellbeing and overall psychological, emotional and behavioral balance.
Experienced Clinician in Private Practice for Individuals, Couples and Families, Skilled in Family Life Cycles/Stages/Transitions, Blended Families, Anxiety & Trauma, Life Stressors, Depression, Grief & Loss, Relationship Issues, Parenting Challenges (single or co-parenting), Behavioral Issues, Crisis Intervention and Family Interactional Challenges, Interpersonal Conflict, Communication Problems
(718) 568-5013 View (718) 568-5013

See more therapy options for Sullivan County

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.