Photo of Nicolette Avery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Nicolette Avery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is warm, positive, holistic, and collaborative. I strive to provide a safe and non-judgmental trusting environment to allow clients to tell their story. My goal is to remove the stigma related to therapy and provide a clinical approach to everyday life stressors. As a therapist I can help individuals leverage their strengths and to understand life experiences better. I seek to work with clients to build a trusting relationship, be a listening ear and provide effective coping skills when things become overwhelming.
My approach to therapy is warm, positive, holistic, and collaborative. I strive to provide a safe and non-judgmental trusting environment to allow clients to tell their story. My goal is to remove the stigma related to therapy and provide a clinical approach to everyday life stressors. As a therapist I can help individuals leverage their strengths and to understand life experiences better. I seek to work with clients to build a trusting relationship, be a listening ear and provide effective coping skills when things become overwhelming.
(773) 825-5845 View (773) 825-5845
Photo of Baheia Derweesh, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Baheia Derweesh
Counselor, EdD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Finding a therapist that meets your needs and makes you feel comfortable makes all the difference in the therapeutic process. It’s one of the most important factors that impact treatment and recovery. Therapy is a journey that should be shared with someone you’re comfortable with and trust. Working with me you will find a sympathetic and genuine therapist. I partner with my clients and gently challenge them in a safe and nonjudgmental environment. I encourage them to explore their thoughts, feelings, and fears in order to understand the obstacles they are experiencing and help them make the changes that are necessary to improve life
Finding a therapist that meets your needs and makes you feel comfortable makes all the difference in the therapeutic process. It’s one of the most important factors that impact treatment and recovery. Therapy is a journey that should be shared with someone you’re comfortable with and trust. Working with me you will find a sympathetic and genuine therapist. I partner with my clients and gently challenge them in a safe and nonjudgmental environment. I encourage them to explore their thoughts, feelings, and fears in order to understand the obstacles they are experiencing and help them make the changes that are necessary to improve life
(312) 626-6611 x2 View (312) 626-6611 x2
Muslim Therapists

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

A culturally sensitive therapist will be respectful of faith, race, sexual orientation, gender, age, disabilities, or anything that is relevant to an individual’s reasons for seeking therapy. This mental health practitioner will therefore be able to recognize the role of faith in a client’s life, and they can appreciate the cultural values and beliefs of others. Cultural sensitivity on the part of the therapist may enhance the possibility of a strong therapeutic bond, even if the clinician does not have an extensive understanding of a client’s background before therapy begins.

How might I inquire about a therapist's experience with Muslim clients?

It is best to ask directly whether a therapist has worked with Muslim clients, and if so, the extent to which cultural or religious principles factored into their work together. You can also ask whether a therapist who is familiar with Islamic practices, values, and beliefs incorporates them into their professional work, and if so, how. If the therapist does not have a sufficient knowledge base, they may well know and can refer you to someone who has such experience.

What if the therapist does not have my exact background?

It is not necessary for a therapist to share one’s exact religious background for therapy to be successful. A qualified and culturally sensitive therapist will appreciate diversity within the Muslim community as well as diversity overall, and will have a sense of how religious and cultural issues can contribute to mental health. In addition, a good therapist would be willing to learn from their clients.

How do I recognize an effective Muslim therapist?

Like all therapists, a Muslim therapist who is effective will have the requisite training and expertise in evidence-based techniques, as well as the ability to connect with you on a personal level. An effective Muslim therapist may also demonstrate a clear understanding of your cultural background and faith. A therapist with such cultural sensitivity will set the stage for a strong therapeutic alliance.

Who is included in Psychology Today's directory of the Muslim faith?

The directory of Muslim therapists includes mental health providers who have shared their cultural background in their profiles. Psychology Today uses this information to assist clients in finding a therapist with a similar background. However, not all therapists choose to disclose this information, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. When the number of therapists identified as Muslim is limited, the directory will also show therapists with extensive experience working with clients from relevant backgrounds.