Hispanic and Latino Therapists in Ottawa, IL

Photo of Crossroads Counseling Services, PLLC, Counselor in Ottawa, IL
Crossroads Counseling Services, PLLC
Counselor
Verified Verified
Ottawa, IL 61350
It’s no secret that life comes with struggles – or that those struggles can impact every part of a person’s life. No matter the age, gender, race, or overall walk of life, those struggles can interfere with one's mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. The good news is that counseling can help with everything from childhood trauma to day-day life. With that in mind, Crossroads Counseling Services opened its doors in April 2007 with the mission of helping residents of Plainfield, Ottawa, Morris, and Yorkville, IL deal with and overcome these issues and trauma.
It’s no secret that life comes with struggles – or that those struggles can impact every part of a person’s life. No matter the age, gender, race, or overall walk of life, those struggles can interfere with one's mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. The good news is that counseling can help with everything from childhood trauma to day-day life. With that in mind, Crossroads Counseling Services opened its doors in April 2007 with the mission of helping residents of Plainfield, Ottawa, Morris, and Yorkville, IL deal with and overcome these issues and trauma.
(815) 706-3279 View (815) 706-3279

Online Therapists

Photo of Ninfa A. Martinez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ottawa, IL
Ninfa A. Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington Heights, IL 60005
I have over twenty years of experience working with children, families, couples, individuals, and groups. I have ample experience working Latinx clients, immigrant families, and multiracial couples. If you suffer issues such as: depression, anxiety, or relational issues ( couples problems, mother/father and children disagreements, siblings fights) give yourself the opportunity to improve your relationships. For years, I have been working with children who have suffered traumatic events and their families. I am an American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy Approved Supervisor, and I supervise Therapy students.
I have over twenty years of experience working with children, families, couples, individuals, and groups. I have ample experience working Latinx clients, immigrant families, and multiracial couples. If you suffer issues such as: depression, anxiety, or relational issues ( couples problems, mother/father and children disagreements, siblings fights) give yourself the opportunity to improve your relationships. For years, I have been working with children who have suffered traumatic events and their families. I am an American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy Approved Supervisor, and I supervise Therapy students.
(773) 717-2970 View (773) 717-2970
Photo of Ernestina Perez, Counselor in Ottawa, IL
Ernestina Perez
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Hello, my name is Ernestina Perez, a licensed clinical therapist. I founded Latinx Talk Therapy in Chicago to provide culturally competent, bilingual, and stigma-free mental health services to the Latinx community. My mission is to empower our community members by nurturing their mental strength, courage, and willpower. Through therapy, I aim to help Latinx individuals address their emotional concerns while guiding them towards happiness and inner peace. You have my assurance that we'll tackle your challenges together, enabling you to reach your goals and live a more intentional, fulfilling life.
Hello, my name is Ernestina Perez, a licensed clinical therapist. I founded Latinx Talk Therapy in Chicago to provide culturally competent, bilingual, and stigma-free mental health services to the Latinx community. My mission is to empower our community members by nurturing their mental strength, courage, and willpower. Through therapy, I aim to help Latinx individuals address their emotional concerns while guiding them towards happiness and inner peace. You have my assurance that we'll tackle your challenges together, enabling you to reach your goals and live a more intentional, fulfilling life.
(312) 625-5195 x1 View (312) 625-5195 x1
Photo of Kenneth Munoz in Ottawa, IL
Kenneth Munoz
LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waukegan, IL 60085
I have over 8 years of experience and am bilingual in English and Spanish, and bi-cultural in Latino and American Cultures. My goal and approach is to create a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment to assist you in feeling relief and empowering you to overcome those challenges in your life that are affecting you. Tengo más de 8 años de experiencia y soy bilingüe en inglés y español, y bicultural en las culturas latina y estadounidense. Mi objetivo y enfoque es crear un entorno seguro, compasivo y de apoyo para ayudarlo a sentir alivio y empoderarlo para superar los desafíos en su vida que lo están afectando.
I have over 8 years of experience and am bilingual in English and Spanish, and bi-cultural in Latino and American Cultures. My goal and approach is to create a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment to assist you in feeling relief and empowering you to overcome those challenges in your life that are affecting you. Tengo más de 8 años de experiencia y soy bilingüe en inglés y español, y bicultural en las culturas latina y estadounidense. Mi objetivo y enfoque es crear un entorno seguro, compasivo y de apoyo para ayudarlo a sentir alivio y empoderarlo para superar los desafíos en su vida que lo están afectando.
(224) 218-5108 View (224) 218-5108
Photo of Wendy Ortiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ottawa, IL
Wendy Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, my name is Wendy, and I use She/Her/Ella/La pronouns. I am a Bilingual (Spanish and English) Latinx, relational cultural therapist, and empowering clients is at the heart of my work. My focus centers around supporting folks respond to anxiety, depression, PTSD, intimate partner violence, trauma, generational trauma, spiritual abuse, immigration trauma, navigating gender and sexuality identity or grief felt when navigating chronic medical health conditions.
Hi, my name is Wendy, and I use She/Her/Ella/La pronouns. I am a Bilingual (Spanish and English) Latinx, relational cultural therapist, and empowering clients is at the heart of my work. My focus centers around supporting folks respond to anxiety, depression, PTSD, intimate partner violence, trauma, generational trauma, spiritual abuse, immigration trauma, navigating gender and sexuality identity or grief felt when navigating chronic medical health conditions.
(847) 472-0871 x38 View (847) 472-0871 x38
Photo of Magdalena Perez, Psychologist in Ottawa, IL
Magdalena Perez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60120
Dr. Magdalena Perez is a bilingual English-Spanish licensed clinical psychologist. Dr. Perez has over 15 years’ experience treating children, families and couples. She has treated a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, family conflict, marital distress, post-traumatic stress disorder, etc. Dr. Perez has received extensive training on providing culturally sensitive treatments and is published on Latinx mental health issues. Dr. Perez’s therapeutic style is warm, non-judgmental and transparent. She believes it is an honor to work with her clients and navigate through the heartaches of life.
Dr. Magdalena Perez is a bilingual English-Spanish licensed clinical psychologist. Dr. Perez has over 15 years’ experience treating children, families and couples. She has treated a broad range of issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, family conflict, marital distress, post-traumatic stress disorder, etc. Dr. Perez has received extensive training on providing culturally sensitive treatments and is published on Latinx mental health issues. Dr. Perez’s therapeutic style is warm, non-judgmental and transparent. She believes it is an honor to work with her clients and navigate through the heartaches of life.
(224) 347-7304 View (224) 347-7304
Photo of Shari Matthews Huizar (Bilingue Español E Ingles), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ottawa, IL
Shari Matthews Huizar (Bilingue Español E Ingles)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60120
My experience living in and working with the Latino community have allowed me a unique perspective and a great deal of experience helping others.
Do you feel that the path you are on is not leading you to where you want to go? Do you feel misunderstood in your relationship? Is it difficult to explain why you feel the way you do? Do you struggle with the loss of a loved one due to immigration difficulties? Do you feel your children don't understand their roots? Living in a new and different culture and community can be very difficult for families, especially children living in both worlds. I would be honored to join you on your journey to understanding and definition.
My experience living in and working with the Latino community have allowed me a unique perspective and a great deal of experience helping others.
Do you feel that the path you are on is not leading you to where you want to go? Do you feel misunderstood in your relationship? Is it difficult to explain why you feel the way you do? Do you struggle with the loss of a loved one due to immigration difficulties? Do you feel your children don't understand their roots? Living in a new and different culture and community can be very difficult for families, especially children living in both worlds. I would be honored to join you on your journey to understanding and definition.
(847) 807-4085 View (847) 807-4085
Photo of Brandon Vélez Ríos, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ottawa, IL
Brandon Vélez Ríos
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Other additional areas of clinical interest are mood disorders, anxiety disorders, geek therapy, sexual orientation and gender identity development, kinks and fetishes, and working with Latinx clients.
Being able to assist people in creating a meaningful life, in recognizing what’s important for them and in overcoming adversity are some of the most fulfilling parts of therapy. Whether life transitions, identity concerns, interpersonal difficulties, or psychological disorders, therapy has a lot to offer for all people. I strive to co-create with you a space where you feel comfortable talking about those things we rarely tell other people. My therapeutic approach is modified depending on the person. I will usually walk you through the process of therapy, as for some it can be seen as intimidating and scary.
Other additional areas of clinical interest are mood disorders, anxiety disorders, geek therapy, sexual orientation and gender identity development, kinks and fetishes, and working with Latinx clients.
Being able to assist people in creating a meaningful life, in recognizing what’s important for them and in overcoming adversity are some of the most fulfilling parts of therapy. Whether life transitions, identity concerns, interpersonal difficulties, or psychological disorders, therapy has a lot to offer for all people. I strive to co-create with you a space where you feel comfortable talking about those things we rarely tell other people. My therapeutic approach is modified depending on the person. I will usually walk you through the process of therapy, as for some it can be seen as intimidating and scary.
(312) 883-8768 View (312) 883-8768
Photo of Chris Dominguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ottawa, IL
Chris Dominguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
As a bilingual Latino, I offer services in English and Spanish to accommodate your preference in communication.
Choosing to pursue therapy can be a big step to take, and allowing yourself to be vulnerable with a stranger is no easy task. My goal is to meet you where you are. My work with you is focused on working collaboratively to explore your authentic self, using your strengths to help empower you to live a life that aligns with your needs and your values. My multicultural background allows me to be sensitive to and understand how culture and race can impact our mental health.
As a bilingual Latino, I offer services in English and Spanish to accommodate your preference in communication.
Choosing to pursue therapy can be a big step to take, and allowing yourself to be vulnerable with a stranger is no easy task. My goal is to meet you where you are. My work with you is focused on working collaboratively to explore your authentic self, using your strengths to help empower you to live a life that aligns with your needs and your values. My multicultural background allows me to be sensitive to and understand how culture and race can impact our mental health.
(224) 267-9271 View (224) 267-9271
Photo of Jazline Villar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ottawa, IL
Jazline Villar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Hello, my name is Jazline Villar and I am a bilingual psychotherapist at Latinx Talk Therapy. I honor building a genuine and therapeutic relationship with my clients, which means that I will individualize therapy so that it can be the most meaningful. My clinical approach is diverse, as I choose from multiple therapeutic modalities and frameworks to best fit my client’s experience, interests, and goals. When working alongside my clients, I like to keep the client’s strengths in mind. I strive to support clients in their goals, whether big or small, to reach their fullest potential and achieve inner peace.
Hello, my name is Jazline Villar and I am a bilingual psychotherapist at Latinx Talk Therapy. I honor building a genuine and therapeutic relationship with my clients, which means that I will individualize therapy so that it can be the most meaningful. My clinical approach is diverse, as I choose from multiple therapeutic modalities and frameworks to best fit my client’s experience, interests, and goals. When working alongside my clients, I like to keep the client’s strengths in mind. I strive to support clients in their goals, whether big or small, to reach their fullest potential and achieve inner peace.
(773) 365-9081 x1 View (773) 365-9081 x1
Photo of Mayra T Galarza Acosta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ottawa, IL
Mayra T Galarza Acosta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60123  (Online Only)
As a Hispanic/Latina Mental Health Professional who is also a first-generation Mexican-American, I understand the importance of a person's need to get culturally informed emotional support. It is essential for me to understand where you come from and provide you with the best therapy care to achieve your goals because I believe it significantly improves symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, and more. Additionally, my work in mental health has brought me to various environments where I've seen the impact of not having specialized support while struggling with diverse emotional needs.
As a Hispanic/Latina Mental Health Professional who is also a first-generation Mexican-American, I understand the importance of a person's need to get culturally informed emotional support. It is essential for me to understand where you come from and provide you with the best therapy care to achieve your goals because I believe it significantly improves symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, and more. Additionally, my work in mental health has brought me to various environments where I've seen the impact of not having specialized support while struggling with diverse emotional needs.
(847) 550-3603 View (847) 550-3603
Photo of Elizabeth Cortez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ottawa, IL
Elizabeth Cortez
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Geneva, IL 60134
Hablo español y tengo experiencia trabajando con la comunidad Latinx.
Whether you're seeking support for managing anxiety, overcoming past traumas, improving relationships, or navigating life transitions, I will be there to provide guidance and support. I want to extend a warm welcome to any individuals of Latinx heritage who are considering therapy. I recognize the unique experiences, challenges, and strengths that come with being part of the Latinx community. I am dedicated to creating a culturally sensitive and affirming environment where you can freely explore your thoughts, emotions, and concerns.
Hablo español y tengo experiencia trabajando con la comunidad Latinx.
Whether you're seeking support for managing anxiety, overcoming past traumas, improving relationships, or navigating life transitions, I will be there to provide guidance and support. I want to extend a warm welcome to any individuals of Latinx heritage who are considering therapy. I recognize the unique experiences, challenges, and strengths that come with being part of the Latinx community. I am dedicated to creating a culturally sensitive and affirming environment where you can freely explore your thoughts, emotions, and concerns.
(630) 593-7975 x1 View (630) 593-7975 x1
Photo of Antonio Tomas Acevedo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ottawa, IL
Antonio Tomas Acevedo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
As a young Latino therapist, I dive into my work fueled by an unwavering belief in people's power to choose change. My double Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Forensic Mental Health Leadership, backed by my experience working with the forensic population, equips me to navigate diverse journeys with empathy and insight. Growing up in a troubled environment I gained a unique outlook on life and came to believe that your circumstances don't have to define you.
As a young Latino therapist, I dive into my work fueled by an unwavering belief in people's power to choose change. My double Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Forensic Mental Health Leadership, backed by my experience working with the forensic population, equips me to navigate diverse journeys with empathy and insight. Growing up in a troubled environment I gained a unique outlook on life and came to believe that your circumstances don't have to define you.
(224) 509-9428 View (224) 509-9428
Photo of Jesse L Munoz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ottawa, IL
Jesse L Munoz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palos Heights, IL 60463  (Online Only)
I am fluent in Spanish (Hablo Espanol) and understand well the diverse Hispanic culture.
Let's start with honoring life... Due to my extensive background and years of professional experience, I am comfortable working with children, youth, adults, couples, and families. I started my training/experience with children and continued servicing all ages. I have worked in many venues of service: mental health, medical, educational, hospice, trauma, supervisory, administrative... providing services to people facing situations that are unknown or a challenge to them. Depression, anxiety (and all the features associated with these two diagnostics), as well as relational and other life issues, are areas that I service.
I am fluent in Spanish (Hablo Espanol) and understand well the diverse Hispanic culture.
Let's start with honoring life... Due to my extensive background and years of professional experience, I am comfortable working with children, youth, adults, couples, and families. I started my training/experience with children and continued servicing all ages. I have worked in many venues of service: mental health, medical, educational, hospice, trauma, supervisory, administrative... providing services to people facing situations that are unknown or a challenge to them. Depression, anxiety (and all the features associated with these two diagnostics), as well as relational and other life issues, are areas that I service.
(708) 689-4434 View (708) 689-4434
Photo of Oli Soto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ottawa, IL
Oli Soto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Hi, my name is Oli Soto, and I am the Clinical Director at Latinx Talk Therapy. I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience working with individuals, adults, children, and groups on issues related to depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss. I believe that psychotherapy is a gift to the self and should be accessible to all. Therapy is also a tool for personal growth, and I will guide you in applying what you learn in our sessions to your everyday life. I am bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural.
Hi, my name is Oli Soto, and I am the Clinical Director at Latinx Talk Therapy. I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience working with individuals, adults, children, and groups on issues related to depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss. I believe that psychotherapy is a gift to the self and should be accessible to all. Therapy is also a tool for personal growth, and I will guide you in applying what you learn in our sessions to your everyday life. I am bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural.
(312) 554-3466 x1 View (312) 554-3466 x1
Photo of Stephanie Vázquez, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Ottawa, IL
Stephanie Vázquez
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elgin, IL 60123  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a Latina, I understand the importance of culturally competent therapy, as well as the battles that the Latino community faces in society and stigma towards mental health. Therefore, it is crucial for me to understand your culture and diversity factors to have a better sense of who you are as a person in hopes that together we can explore ways in which I can help you reach your therapy goals. Throughout my years of practice, I have seen how different issues and symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress can weigh a person down; and obstruct the individual's ability to deal with the present moment.
As a Latina, I understand the importance of culturally competent therapy, as well as the battles that the Latino community faces in society and stigma towards mental health. Therefore, it is crucial for me to understand your culture and diversity factors to have a better sense of who you are as a person in hopes that together we can explore ways in which I can help you reach your therapy goals. Throughout my years of practice, I have seen how different issues and symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress can weigh a person down; and obstruct the individual's ability to deal with the present moment.
(872) 206-9422 View (872) 206-9422
Photo of Way to Know Thyself LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ottawa, IL
Way to Know Thyself LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
I am Latinx and both bilingual and bicultural that is inclusive to all genders, races, religions, cultures, and the LGBTQIA community.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has been in practice since 2006. Throughout the years I have worked in different settings with individuals from all ages. I enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, and individuals struggling to cope with symptoms of depression, anxiety, marital or interpersonal relationship problems. I am familiar with non-traditional love styles and my approach is kink-affirming and sex positive.
I am Latinx and both bilingual and bicultural that is inclusive to all genders, races, religions, cultures, and the LGBTQIA community.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has been in practice since 2006. Throughout the years I have worked in different settings with individuals from all ages. I enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, and individuals struggling to cope with symptoms of depression, anxiety, marital or interpersonal relationship problems. I am familiar with non-traditional love styles and my approach is kink-affirming and sex positive.
(773) 830-2890 View (773) 830-2890
Photo of Sandra Rodriguez, Counselor in Ottawa, IL
Sandra Rodriguez
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Glenwood, IL 60425  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and I specialize in Latino Mental Health.
Stressors, significant life events, and changes can create difficult feelings that can prove to be overwhelming to navigate on one’s own. Therapy can become a source of guidance and empowerment in order to feel more equipped to face and manage uncertain times. As a bicultural and bilingual therapist, I am aware of the impact of cultural influences in one’s life. In therapy, I provide tools and skills to help clients cope with difficult feelings and distressing thoughts and collaborate with clients to set goals to improve their quality of life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and I specialize in Latino Mental Health.
Stressors, significant life events, and changes can create difficult feelings that can prove to be overwhelming to navigate on one’s own. Therapy can become a source of guidance and empowerment in order to feel more equipped to face and manage uncertain times. As a bicultural and bilingual therapist, I am aware of the impact of cultural influences in one’s life. In therapy, I provide tools and skills to help clients cope with difficult feelings and distressing thoughts and collaborate with clients to set goals to improve their quality of life.
(708) 578-5671 View (708) 578-5671
Photo of Lizbeth Montes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ottawa, IL
Lizbeth Montes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
I work especially well with teens and young adults and have significant training and experience with those struggling with aspects of adjustment/life transition, depressed mood, anxiety, traumatic experiences, and culturally informed treatment for Latinx community.
Hola, hablo Español. l believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Pursuing therapy is courageous work, and I commend you for starting on this path. As your therapist, we will collaborate to access meaningful relief from distress, create alleviating strategies to address anxious or depressive symptoms, discern what is most meaningful or important to you, and enhance your life so that it can be as fulfilling as possible. I truly believe that with support and understanding, you have the ability and resilience to achieve your goals and face life's toughest challenges.
I work especially well with teens and young adults and have significant training and experience with those struggling with aspects of adjustment/life transition, depressed mood, anxiety, traumatic experiences, and culturally informed treatment for Latinx community.
Hola, hablo Español. l believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Pursuing therapy is courageous work, and I commend you for starting on this path. As your therapist, we will collaborate to access meaningful relief from distress, create alleviating strategies to address anxious or depressive symptoms, discern what is most meaningful or important to you, and enhance your life so that it can be as fulfilling as possible. I truly believe that with support and understanding, you have the ability and resilience to achieve your goals and face life's toughest challenges.
(872) 276-8420 View (872) 276-8420
Photo of Noelani Cortina, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ottawa, IL
Noelani Cortina
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Hello, I am open and taking new clients! As a person of Hispanic descent and being a 1st generation Mexican-American, I grew up with a stigmatized view of mental health issues and therapy. I heard my family talk a lot about working hard and pushing past traumatic experiences. Most of the time, “pushing past these experiences” meant simply dismissing them— ignoring them. But I began noticing the emotional toll that dismissing difficult experiences had taken in the lives of my family members. I realized that this idea of “working hard” and pushing past traumatic experiences simply doesn’t work to provide growth or healing.
Hello, I am open and taking new clients! As a person of Hispanic descent and being a 1st generation Mexican-American, I grew up with a stigmatized view of mental health issues and therapy. I heard my family talk a lot about working hard and pushing past traumatic experiences. Most of the time, “pushing past these experiences” meant simply dismissing them— ignoring them. But I began noticing the emotional toll that dismissing difficult experiences had taken in the lives of my family members. I realized that this idea of “working hard” and pushing past traumatic experiences simply doesn’t work to provide growth or healing.
(630) 526-6618 View (630) 526-6618

See more therapy options for Ottawa

Hispanic and Latino Therapists

What makes a Hispanic and Latino therapist effective?

An effective Hispanic and Latino therapist can combine a culturally sensitive lens with proven therapies, such as Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). They may have an understanding of cultural attitudes to therapy, including potential stigma, and can help a client navigate those concerns. Some clients may also appreciate a therapist who is bilingual and is comfortable conversing with the client in both English and Spanish. Languages spoken are indicated on a therapist’s directory profile.

Why is it important for a therapist to be culturally sensitive?

A culturally sensitive therapist is respectful and considerate of all groups, and may have specific expertise with individuals of a certain ethnicity. These considerations can help a client feel understood and can improve the therapeutic alliance. While some people think highlighting race and ethnicity could promote stereotypes and bias, most agree that knowledge about cultural differences enhances the alliance between therapist and client.

How can I recognize a therapist who has expertise working with Hispanic and Latino clients?

Successful therapy depends a great deal on the relationship between client and therapist. Start by asking the therapist about their overall approach to therapy. You may then wish to ask about the therapist’s educational background and any additional training in cultural sensitivity that they have undertaken.

How might I inquire about a therapist's experience with Hispanic and Latino clients?

Ask a potential therapist whether they've worked with individuals who share this background or whether they’ve worked in these communities. If so, you may wish to ask them to elaborate on ways that they feel especially prepared to work with Hispanic and Latino clients. If they have not worked with such clients, they may know someone who has and be able to make a referral.

Who is included in Psychology Today’s directory of Hispanic and Latino therapists?

The directory of Hispanic and Latino therapists includes providers who have identified their ethnicity in their profiles. Psychology Today uses this information to assist clients in finding a therapist who can provide a cultural match. However, not all therapists choose to disclose their ethnicity in their profiles, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. When the number of therapists near you who identify as Hispanic and Latino is limited, the directory will also show therapists with comprehensive experience working with clients from relevant backgrounds.