Culturally Sensitive Therapists in New York

Photo of Dr. Christine Romano, PhD, LMHC, EMDR, CST, Counselor
Dr. Christine Romano
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, EMDR, CST
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Yonkers, NY 10701  (Online Only)
My unparalleled background in counseling, education, supervision, and research will help you through techniques that are emotionally guiding, culturally sensitive, strengths based, motivational, and solution focused.
Wellness, sex, and relationships play a vital role in our everyday lives so let's work together to achieve your individual goals and relationship satisfaction. My dedication and passion for guiding clients and supervisees is unmatched as I not only help you survive, but thrive. My treatment and supervision specializations include trauma, anxiety, sex and intimacy, sexual dysfunctions, sexuality exploration, gender diversity, and relationships. My experience in counselor education, counseling supervision, and research supports counselors-in-training seeking personal growth, multicultural competency, and professional development.
My unparalleled background in counseling, education, supervision, and research will help you through techniques that are emotionally guiding, culturally sensitive, strengths based, motivational, and solution focused.
Wellness, sex, and relationships play a vital role in our everyday lives so let's work together to achieve your individual goals and relationship satisfaction. My dedication and passion for guiding clients and supervisees is unmatched as I not only help you survive, but thrive. My treatment and supervision specializations include trauma, anxiety, sex and intimacy, sexual dysfunctions, sexuality exploration, gender diversity, and relationships. My experience in counselor education, counseling supervision, and research supports counselors-in-training seeking personal growth, multicultural competency, and professional development.
(914) 339-5716 View (914) 339-5716
Photo of Paula Flidermauz, LMHC, Counselor
Paula Flidermauz
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
Many of my clients have come to me after not having success with traditional talk-therapies in the past. I have worked extensively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, prioritizing culturally sensitive care that honors each client's unique experiences. I want to empower clients to advocate for their needs, confront their fears, and overcome obstacles to achieving their goals, whether those barriers are self-imposed, or a systemic issue. I have experience ranging from crisis prevention, to supporting individuals through their life transitions, relationship challenges, and learning to accept all parts of themselves.
Many of my clients have come to me after not having success with traditional talk-therapies in the past. I have worked extensively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, prioritizing culturally sensitive care that honors each client's unique experiences. I want to empower clients to advocate for their needs, confront their fears, and overcome obstacles to achieving their goals, whether those barriers are self-imposed, or a systemic issue. I have experience ranging from crisis prevention, to supporting individuals through their life transitions, relationship challenges, and learning to accept all parts of themselves.
(585) 620-2776 View (585) 620-2776
Photo of Mary Coyle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Coyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Flushing, NY 11361  (Online Only)
I believe strongly in culturally sensitive treatment.
Hello! I'm Mary, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Hempstead, New York, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. Life can be challenging sometimes. In my work, I try to provide a safe space where those challenges can be explored, and new possibilities can be discovered. I work collaboratively with you to help you re-discover your strengths and to use these to help you deal more effectively with your struggles. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for adults and seniors who are experiencing life transitions and are having difficulty coping with grief and loss.
I believe strongly in culturally sensitive treatment.
Hello! I'm Mary, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Hempstead, New York, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. Life can be challenging sometimes. In my work, I try to provide a safe space where those challenges can be explored, and new possibilities can be discovered. I work collaboratively with you to help you re-discover your strengths and to use these to help you deal more effectively with your struggles. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for adults and seniors who are experiencing life transitions and are having difficulty coping with grief and loss.
(929) 203-4662 View (929) 203-4662
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 Nashuda (Nash) Augustine, MA, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nashuda (Nash) Augustine
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11225  (Online Only)
Discovering your own story is one of the most courageous steps you can take. Therapy isn't about quick fixes; it's a journey that requires time, commitment, and the bravery to face your truths. It involves confronting your past, understanding your present, and embracing your emotions along the way. Committing to growth means rediscovering yourself and finding the strength to heal and move forward. Together, we’ll explore these emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and foster self-love and acceptance. Embracing this journey will build resilience, leading you to a healthier mindset and a more fulfilling life.
Discovering your own story is one of the most courageous steps you can take. Therapy isn't about quick fixes; it's a journey that requires time, commitment, and the bravery to face your truths. It involves confronting your past, understanding your present, and embracing your emotions along the way. Committing to growth means rediscovering yourself and finding the strength to heal and move forward. Together, we’ll explore these emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and foster self-love and acceptance. Embracing this journey will build resilience, leading you to a healthier mindset and a more fulfilling life.
(929) 357-2358 View (929) 357-2358
Photo of Alessandra Sabbatini, LCSW, CST, MBA, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alessandra Sabbatini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST, MBA, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128
Coming from a diverse background, I am culturally sensitive and comfortable working with people of various races, ethnicities, genders and sexual orientations.
I believe that in different stages of our lives we are presented with challenges that can be overwhelming and that can leave us feel powerless. It is also my firm belief that we all have unique strengths and resilience and that therapy can help us identify and make use of them. This then allows us to regain control of our lives and strengthen healthy relationships. Being listened to and understood by a caring professional in a confidential and safe space can bring tremendous relief from emotional conflicts and pain. Such therapeutic space can help develop a stronger self and promote constructive ways to live a more fulfilling life.
Coming from a diverse background, I am culturally sensitive and comfortable working with people of various races, ethnicities, genders and sexual orientations.
I believe that in different stages of our lives we are presented with challenges that can be overwhelming and that can leave us feel powerless. It is also my firm belief that we all have unique strengths and resilience and that therapy can help us identify and make use of them. This then allows us to regain control of our lives and strengthen healthy relationships. Being listened to and understood by a caring professional in a confidential and safe space can bring tremendous relief from emotional conflicts and pain. Such therapeutic space can help develop a stronger self and promote constructive ways to live a more fulfilling life.
(646) 759-0633 View (646) 759-0633
Photo of Sarah N Baquet, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
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 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 Mona El-Shahat, LMHC, NCC, CCTP, Counselor
Mona El-Shahat
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elmont, NY 11003  (Online Only)
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.
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 Dr. Sarah Herzog, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah Herzog
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11233
I'm committed to fostering an affirming, safe, and culturally sensitive environment.
I am a Brooklyn-based clinical psychologist and I specialize in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, as well as challenges related to identity, relationship/dating, family conflict, burnout, and life transitions. I am an active and engaged therapist, and my style is warm, accessible, humorous, and pragmatic. Together, we will work collaboratively to understand the “stuck points" and behavior patterns that contribute to your emotional suffering. My focus is primarily on the problems of today, with an eye for understanding how childhood experiences and past traumas shape our current struggles.
I'm committed to fostering an affirming, safe, and culturally sensitive environment.
I am a Brooklyn-based clinical psychologist and I specialize in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, as well as challenges related to identity, relationship/dating, family conflict, burnout, and life transitions. I am an active and engaged therapist, and my style is warm, accessible, humorous, and pragmatic. Together, we will work collaboratively to understand the “stuck points" and behavior patterns that contribute to your emotional suffering. My focus is primarily on the problems of today, with an eye for understanding how childhood experiences and past traumas shape our current struggles.
(347) 658-3569 View (347) 658-3569
Photo of Pallavi Ankolekar, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pallavi Ankolekar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in trauma and EMDR that I apply in my practice with a culturally sensitive, antiracist, anti-oppressive structures and systems approach.
Life, at times, can feel heavy and you don’t need to carry the burden of your struggles or experiences alone. It can be challenging to find a space to open up about all the different areas of your life that make you who you are, past and present, and your hope for the future. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, symptoms of trauma, 1st gen family or cultural conflicts, coping with life transitions, relationship issues, identifying & setting healthy boundaries, or the myriad challenges that can arise, I am here to support you in finding your peace.
I have extensive training in trauma and EMDR that I apply in my practice with a culturally sensitive, antiracist, anti-oppressive structures and systems approach.
Life, at times, can feel heavy and you don’t need to carry the burden of your struggles or experiences alone. It can be challenging to find a space to open up about all the different areas of your life that make you who you are, past and present, and your hope for the future. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, symptoms of trauma, 1st gen family or cultural conflicts, coping with life transitions, relationship issues, identifying & setting healthy boundaries, or the myriad challenges that can arise, I am here to support you in finding your peace.
(631) 201-5578 View (631) 201-5578
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 Bianca Landy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bianca Landy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10037  (Online Only)
I'm a dedicated therapist committed to empowering Black women on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. My practice focuses specifically on serving Black women ages 21 and older who are navigating the complexities of life while grappling with mental health issues. With a compassionate and culturally sensitive approach, I specialize in supporting individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, and self-esteem challenges. I recognize that societal pressures, systemic inequities, and cultural dynamics can significantly impact one's mental and emotional state.
I'm a dedicated therapist committed to empowering Black women on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. My practice focuses specifically on serving Black women ages 21 and older who are navigating the complexities of life while grappling with mental health issues. With a compassionate and culturally sensitive approach, I specialize in supporting individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, and self-esteem challenges. I recognize that societal pressures, systemic inequities, and cultural dynamics can significantly impact one's mental and emotional state.
View
Photo of Jayta C Szpitalak, LMHC, 200 RYT, Counselor
Jayta C Szpitalak
Counselor, LMHC, 200 RYT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10282  (Online Only)
I believe that everyone has the capacity to heal, grow, and improve their well-being, and I look forward to helping you along your journey in a culturally sensitive environment.
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, not entirely yourself, or a bit down? I'm here to help. I'm a New York-based psychotherapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Nutritional Psychology, Mindfulness, and Neuroplasticity. Utilizing an integrative approach to wellness, I am eager to help people improve their mental & physical well-being. I firmly believe that everyone has the capacity to grow, overcome various challenges in their unique situations, and heal. We will work collaboratively during therapy, harnessing evidence-based strategies to achieve balance and equanimity.
I believe that everyone has the capacity to heal, grow, and improve their well-being, and I look forward to helping you along your journey in a culturally sensitive environment.
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, not entirely yourself, or a bit down? I'm here to help. I'm a New York-based psychotherapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Nutritional Psychology, Mindfulness, and Neuroplasticity. Utilizing an integrative approach to wellness, I am eager to help people improve their mental & physical well-being. I firmly believe that everyone has the capacity to grow, overcome various challenges in their unique situations, and heal. We will work collaboratively during therapy, harnessing evidence-based strategies to achieve balance and equanimity.
(347) 493-2275 View (347) 493-2275
Photo of Saima Toppa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Saima Toppa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Maybe you've tried talk therapy and still find yourself stuck in a destructive loop of thoughts and behaviors? For true whole-body healing, you need a variety of cognitive and somatic approaches. My clinical approach is for clients to reshape the narrative of painful experiences by reconnecting to their internal strengths and the body's own natural propensity to heal. Through changing self-talk, old attachment patterns, and learning tools of nervous system regulation, we can cultivate new neural pathways that allow you to flourish. My hope is to offer you a sacred space to be heard, loved, and celebrated for your authentic self.
Maybe you've tried talk therapy and still find yourself stuck in a destructive loop of thoughts and behaviors? For true whole-body healing, you need a variety of cognitive and somatic approaches. My clinical approach is for clients to reshape the narrative of painful experiences by reconnecting to their internal strengths and the body's own natural propensity to heal. Through changing self-talk, old attachment patterns, and learning tools of nervous system regulation, we can cultivate new neural pathways that allow you to flourish. My hope is to offer you a sacred space to be heard, loved, and celebrated for your authentic self.
(646) 859-2210 View (646) 859-2210
Photo of Jenna Hartom, MPS, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Jenna Hartom
Art Therapist, MPS, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NY 11385  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
By creating an empathic, culturally sensitive, LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapeutic space, I will help you feel supported as you find and follow your own path.
Sometimes the best thing you can give yourself is the chance to be heard, tell your story and share your experience. In the current climate it may be especially hard for you to find the support you need. Maybe you have experienced trauma that seems to affect your work or relationships. Daily stressors can compound and impact your wellbeing, leaving you feeling distressed, anxious, irritable, depressed or overwhelmed. I aim to help you gain new awareness about your feelings and how they relate to current challenges or past experiences, leading to a sense of relief, improved self-acceptance and even curiosity and excitement.
By creating an empathic, culturally sensitive, LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapeutic space, I will help you feel supported as you find and follow your own path.
Sometimes the best thing you can give yourself is the chance to be heard, tell your story and share your experience. In the current climate it may be especially hard for you to find the support you need. Maybe you have experienced trauma that seems to affect your work or relationships. Daily stressors can compound and impact your wellbeing, leaving you feeling distressed, anxious, irritable, depressed or overwhelmed. I aim to help you gain new awareness about your feelings and how they relate to current challenges or past experiences, leading to a sense of relief, improved self-acceptance and even curiosity and excitement.
(347) 609-7532 View (347) 609-7532
Photo of Eman Said, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eman Said
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11209  (Online Only)
I specialize providing therapy for women who are Arab/South Asian or people of various backgrounds. I am a first-generation Muslim Arab American, born and raised in NYC. In my early years and adulthood, accessing resources and services that felt inclusive and culturally sensitive was challenging. My own journey in healing has sparked a desire to provide culturally sensitive care to people from all walks of life.
I specialize providing therapy for women who are Arab/South Asian or people of various backgrounds. I am a first-generation Muslim Arab American, born and raised in NYC. In my early years and adulthood, accessing resources and services that felt inclusive and culturally sensitive was challenging. My own journey in healing has sparked a desire to provide culturally sensitive care to people from all walks of life.
(718) 691-9101 View (718) 691-9101
Photo of Emmy Kang Shrivastava
Emmy Kang Shrivastava
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
Drawing from my extensive experience working closely with immigrant communities, particularly those from Asian backgrounds, and rooted in my personal journey as a Korean-American woman and survivor of complex trauma, I offer a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed perspective in our work together.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression and struggling to understand their roots, or finding it challenging to navigate your relationships and communicate your needs effectively, you've taken an important step by seeking support here. I'm dedicated to helping you find relief, feel truly seen, ground yourself, and embark on a journey toward understanding your innermost self and intentions. In my therapeutic approach, I offer genuine warmth and openness, grounded in a sincere quest for truth.
Drawing from my extensive experience working closely with immigrant communities, particularly those from Asian backgrounds, and rooted in my personal journey as a Korean-American woman and survivor of complex trauma, I offer a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed perspective in our work together.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression and struggling to understand their roots, or finding it challenging to navigate your relationships and communicate your needs effectively, you've taken an important step by seeking support here. I'm dedicated to helping you find relief, feel truly seen, ground yourself, and embark on a journey toward understanding your innermost self and intentions. In my therapeutic approach, I offer genuine warmth and openness, grounded in a sincere quest for truth.
(929) 560-6728 View (929) 560-6728
Photo of Alissa DeFini, LMHC, Counselor
Alissa DeFini
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Amherst, NY 14226
I utilize a person-centered, non-judgmental, culturally sensitive and empathic approach to therapy.
Do you find it difficult to control your worry and anxiety or do you find that you are worried all the time? Do you experience thoughts that you find are difficult to control? Are you often overwhelmed by intense emotions and feel like you’re on a roller coaster? Do you find yourself feeling depressed and having a hard time enjoying the things that you once enjoyed? You are not alone and therapy can help.
I utilize a person-centered, non-judgmental, culturally sensitive and empathic approach to therapy.
Do you find it difficult to control your worry and anxiety or do you find that you are worried all the time? Do you experience thoughts that you find are difficult to control? Are you often overwhelmed by intense emotions and feel like you’re on a roller coaster? Do you find yourself feeling depressed and having a hard time enjoying the things that you once enjoyed? You are not alone and therapy can help.
(716) 245-6378 View (716) 245-6378
Photo of Natalie Pizzolla - Finer Connections, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Finer Connections
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12603  (Online Only)
We're passionate about providing culturally sensitive therapy to communities of color.
Thank you for taking the step of caring for yourself and meeting your needs by searching for a therapist. Whatever you're currently struggling with, whether it's anxiety, depression, or life changes, know that it can get better. And you've taken the first step towards this.
We're passionate about providing culturally sensitive therapy to communities of color.
Thank you for taking the step of caring for yourself and meeting your needs by searching for a therapist. Whatever you're currently struggling with, whether it's anxiety, depression, or life changes, know that it can get better. And you've taken the first step towards this.
(845) 378-4906 View (845) 378-4906
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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.