Photo of Danielle Matias, Counselor in Syracuse, NY
Danielle Matias
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Syracuse, NY 13206
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295

Online Therapists

Photo of Maria Tia Holden, Psychologist in Syracuse, NY
Maria Tia Holden
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ithaca, NY 14850
Everyone functions uniquely, at times experiencing depression, anxiety, insecurities, doubt, and grief. I help people around these issues, as well as introversion, high-functioning Asperger's, bipolar, OCD, and social awkwardness...relationship issues, self-esteem, living with narcissists, identity. We can decide how to deal with life's changes, challenges, and transitions. We will focus compassionately on emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships to examine patterns and slowly change them. Our ability to observe and use our will to change are the most powerful tools we possess to bring about changes we desire.
Everyone functions uniquely, at times experiencing depression, anxiety, insecurities, doubt, and grief. I help people around these issues, as well as introversion, high-functioning Asperger's, bipolar, OCD, and social awkwardness...relationship issues, self-esteem, living with narcissists, identity. We can decide how to deal with life's changes, challenges, and transitions. We will focus compassionately on emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and relationships to examine patterns and slowly change them. Our ability to observe and use our will to change are the most powerful tools we possess to bring about changes we desire.
(607) 800-4692 View (607) 800-4692

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.