Culturally Sensitive Therapists in Nassau County, NY

Photo of Evaluaciones psicologicas para imigracion, Counselor in Nassau County, NY
Evaluaciones psicologicas para imigracion
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hempstead, NY 11550
The multilevel model of psychotherapy, social justice, and human rights, provides a culturally sensitive framework for applying cognitive, affective, and behavioral interventions.
I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) NYS Board certified Licensed Mental Health Counselor, New Jersey Licensed Board of Marriage & Family therapy & Florida Mental Health Counselor. I specialize in working with diverse and vulnerable populations. I also Conduct psychosocial evaluations for immigrationcases (Vawa law, Waivers and Political Asylum cases). Being bilingual and bicultural gives me the opportunity to reach numerous individuals in need of psychological help. I have vast experience in providing psychological assessment and treatment services to children, adolescents, adults and families both in the Unites States and Ecuador.
The multilevel model of psychotherapy, social justice, and human rights, provides a culturally sensitive framework for applying cognitive, affective, and behavioral interventions.
I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) NYS Board certified Licensed Mental Health Counselor, New Jersey Licensed Board of Marriage & Family therapy & Florida Mental Health Counselor. I specialize in working with diverse and vulnerable populations. I also Conduct psychosocial evaluations for immigrationcases (Vawa law, Waivers and Political Asylum cases). Being bilingual and bicultural gives me the opportunity to reach numerous individuals in need of psychological help. I have vast experience in providing psychological assessment and treatment services to children, adolescents, adults and families both in the Unites States and Ecuador.
(631) 438-8252 View (631) 438-8252
Nicole Headley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hempstead, NY 11550  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use various therapeutic approaches like Culturally Sensitive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Theory, Humanistic theory, and many other techniques based on each client's needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to helping people learn how to navigate life’s many stressors as well as depression, anxiety, and lack of confidence. As a therapist, I find my strengths include assisting clients to increase their self-awareness, self-acceptance, communication skills, and self-compassion. I believe in using an empowering collaborative approach to support clients in reaching their personal and professional goals. I’m passionate about providing high-quality, equitable, and accessible mental health therapy to marginalized communities.
I use various therapeutic approaches like Culturally Sensitive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Theory, Humanistic theory, and many other techniques based on each client's needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to helping people learn how to navigate life’s many stressors as well as depression, anxiety, and lack of confidence. As a therapist, I find my strengths include assisting clients to increase their self-awareness, self-acceptance, communication skills, and self-compassion. I believe in using an empowering collaborative approach to support clients in reaching their personal and professional goals. I’m passionate about providing high-quality, equitable, and accessible mental health therapy to marginalized communities.
(516) 588-6263 View (516) 588-6263
Photo of Malkie Bobker, Counselor in Nassau County, NY
Malkie Bobker
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cedarhurst, NY 11516  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed? Do you struggle with following through on making positive changes? Are you having trouble setting boundaries in your relationships? Do you just "feel off" and you're not sure what's wrong? When life inevitably throws us curveballs they often highlight our self-doubt, and negative feelings and beliefs about ourselves and others that we had been ignoring or didn't even know we had. You may have experienced loss, a difficult diagnosis, relationship or marital challenges, or you are carrying a painful trauma from your past. Maybe you are simply looking to gain clarity and self-awareness.
Are you feeling stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed? Do you struggle with following through on making positive changes? Are you having trouble setting boundaries in your relationships? Do you just "feel off" and you're not sure what's wrong? When life inevitably throws us curveballs they often highlight our self-doubt, and negative feelings and beliefs about ourselves and others that we had been ignoring or didn't even know we had. You may have experienced loss, a difficult diagnosis, relationship or marital challenges, or you are carrying a painful trauma from your past. Maybe you are simply looking to gain clarity and self-awareness.
(516) 217-1042 View (516) 217-1042
Photo of Yvette Mazloumi, Counselor in Nassau County, NY
Yvette Mazloumi
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Great Neck, NY 11021  (Online Only)
I am a culturally sensitive, board certified mental health counselor, passionate about bringing healing to people and helping them overcome their personal and relational struggles in order to live more meaningful, empowered, and peaceful lives.
I am a culturally sensitive, board certified mental health counselor, passionate about bringing healing to people and helping them overcome their personal and relational struggles in order to live more meaningful, empowered, and peaceful lives.
(347) 705-0337 View (347) 705-0337
Photo of Inspire Clinical LCSW Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nassau County, NY
Inspire Clinical LCSW Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Uniondale, NY 11556  (Online Only)
Are you feeling like something is not quite right but also feel conflicted about the notion of having a mental health condition? This is a very common feeling especially when cultural values and other beliefs compete with the desire to seek this type of help. My practice approach is culturally sensitive, collaborative, and individual-specific which helps to create a sense of respect and autonomy. My main goal in your treatment will be to foster physical and emotional safety, to allow an open discussion of the issues and the best way to address them.
Are you feeling like something is not quite right but also feel conflicted about the notion of having a mental health condition? This is a very common feeling especially when cultural values and other beliefs compete with the desire to seek this type of help. My practice approach is culturally sensitive, collaborative, and individual-specific which helps to create a sense of respect and autonomy. My main goal in your treatment will be to foster physical and emotional safety, to allow an open discussion of the issues and the best way to address them.
(718) 312-8174 View (718) 312-8174
Photo of Hiba Khan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nassau 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 Kavita Basavaraju (Raju), Psychologist in Nassau County, NY
Kavita Basavaraju (Raju)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
I have also lived in four countries so I am culturally sensitive and welcome clients of all backgrounds.
People sometimes experience difficulties and challenges and need support and advice on how to cope and move ahead in life. They want to be less stressed and capable of making appropriate choices.
I have also lived in four countries so I am culturally sensitive and welcome clients of all backgrounds.
People sometimes experience difficulties and challenges and need support and advice on how to cope and move ahead in life. They want to be less stressed and capable of making appropriate choices.
(516) 613-5589 View (516) 613-5589
Photo of Radhalisa Zarzuela, Counselor in Nassau County, NY
Radhalisa Zarzuela
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Manhasset, NY 11030  (Online Only)
Welcome to therapy! It takes a level of courage, resilience, and empowerment to get here. I am a trauma-informed licensed mental health clinician working with adolescents, young adults, and the adult population. I specialize in supporting survivors of intimate partner violence and domestic violence. I also work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, low self-esteem, and personality disorders. I truly believe that in working through these struggles, a client needs to be supported and encouraged to freely voice their thoughts, feelings, and emotions in a nonjudgemental, caring, and open space.
Welcome to therapy! It takes a level of courage, resilience, and empowerment to get here. I am a trauma-informed licensed mental health clinician working with adolescents, young adults, and the adult population. I specialize in supporting survivors of intimate partner violence and domestic violence. I also work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, low self-esteem, and personality disorders. I truly believe that in working through these struggles, a client needs to be supported and encouraged to freely voice their thoughts, feelings, and emotions in a nonjudgemental, caring, and open space.
(516) 908-5598 View (516) 908-5598
Photo of Dominica Aufiero in Nassau County, NY
Dominica Aufiero
LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manhasset, NY 11030
I have a holistic view in healing and deeply value the client-therapist relationship. Creativity is the true essence of psychotherapy. I value clients partnership in their healing and invite them to explore their inner insight and creativity along with my therapeutic guidance. I draw from clinical approaches such as CBT, culturally sensitive, eclectic, integrative, jungian, humanistic, transpersonal, strength based and gestalt. My experience has brought me to see valuable psychotherapy as when the client becomes aware that their presenting problem can be healed by adopting and integrating positive and healthy perceptions and actions.
I have a holistic view in healing and deeply value the client-therapist relationship. Creativity is the true essence of psychotherapy. I value clients partnership in their healing and invite them to explore their inner insight and creativity along with my therapeutic guidance. I draw from clinical approaches such as CBT, culturally sensitive, eclectic, integrative, jungian, humanistic, transpersonal, strength based and gestalt. My experience has brought me to see valuable psychotherapy as when the client becomes aware that their presenting problem can be healed by adopting and integrating positive and healthy perceptions and actions.
(516) 690-7950 View (516) 690-7950
Photo of Cheryl Mchunguzi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nassau County, NY
Cheryl Mchunguzi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrick, NY 11566
My practice includes a holistic component that consider your lifestyle and uses innovative methods and treatment within an environment that is culturally sensitive, supportive and safe for all persons who are seeking to discover, rediscover and develop their best selves.
Everyone's journey through therapy is an individual experience which requires the integration of mind, body and soul. I encourage this type of integrative approach because it allows me to work collaboratively with you, the client, in the assessment, treatment and goal development throughout the entire therapeutic experience. Psycho-dynamic theories, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Mind/Body modalities are used in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment.
My practice includes a holistic component that consider your lifestyle and uses innovative methods and treatment within an environment that is culturally sensitive, supportive and safe for all persons who are seeking to discover, rediscover and develop their best selves.
Everyone's journey through therapy is an individual experience which requires the integration of mind, body and soul. I encourage this type of integrative approach because it allows me to work collaboratively with you, the client, in the assessment, treatment and goal development throughout the entire therapeutic experience. Psycho-dynamic theories, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Mind/Body modalities are used in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment.
(631) 759-8633 View (631) 759-8633
Photo of Afiya Mangum Mbilishaka, Psychologist in Nassau County, NY
Afiya Mangum Mbilishaka
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baldwin, NY 11510  (Online Only)
As a hairstylist and psychologist, I have developed culturally sensitive approaches to address coping with hair loss, hair dissatisfaction, and healthy transitioning, by focusing on the relationship between hair care and self-care.
Feeling out of balance? Do things seem out of order in your life? Everyone needs a supportive space to process challenges of daily life and figure out how to cope with stress. I am dedicated to meeting the individual needs of each and every client, by developing a healthy relationship together and being an active listener to each client's unique story. My therapeutic approach is anchored in an integration of understanding how your past experiences have impacted your present situations, the healing aspects of telling your narrative, and finding solutions through a culturally meaningful lens.
As a hairstylist and psychologist, I have developed culturally sensitive approaches to address coping with hair loss, hair dissatisfaction, and healthy transitioning, by focusing on the relationship between hair care and self-care.
Feeling out of balance? Do things seem out of order in your life? Everyone needs a supportive space to process challenges of daily life and figure out how to cope with stress. I am dedicated to meeting the individual needs of each and every client, by developing a healthy relationship together and being an active listener to each client's unique story. My therapeutic approach is anchored in an integration of understanding how your past experiences have impacted your present situations, the healing aspects of telling your narrative, and finding solutions through a culturally meaningful lens.
(202) 601-4838 View (202) 601-4838
Photo of Alvina Anantram, Counselor in Nassau County, NY
Alvina Anantram
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Great Neck, NY 11021  (Online Only)
As difficult as life may seem at times, I aim to help my clients feel as if they don't have to go through it alone. I strive to provide a warm, supportive, and culturally-sensitive safe space for my clients. I empower clients on their healing and self-growth journey by truly allowing them to feel heard and accepted. My goal is to help individuals regain control over their mental well-being, and together in a supportive therapeutic space, we can accomplish exactly that. I provide therapy to adolescents and adults from a variety of cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender identities, and races.
As difficult as life may seem at times, I aim to help my clients feel as if they don't have to go through it alone. I strive to provide a warm, supportive, and culturally-sensitive safe space for my clients. I empower clients on their healing and self-growth journey by truly allowing them to feel heard and accepted. My goal is to help individuals regain control over their mental well-being, and together in a supportive therapeutic space, we can accomplish exactly that. I provide therapy to adolescents and adults from a variety of cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, gender identities, and races.
(646) 450-3064 View (646) 450-3064
Photo of Tiffany Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nassau County, NY
Tiffany Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elmont, NY 11003
Hello! I am a licensed clinical therapist with over 8 years of counseling experience. My expertise lies in helping people achieve their goals of stress reduction, improved coping skills, communication, and self-esteem. My eclectic approach includes extensive knowledge in cognitive behavioral, client-centered, and trauma-informed therapy modalities. As an Afro-Latina myself, I know that having a culturally-sensitive therapist is very important to ensure that clients feel heard and supported in sessions. I believe in creating a space of acceptance and unconditional positive regard in order to foster self-acceptance and healing.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical therapist with over 8 years of counseling experience. My expertise lies in helping people achieve their goals of stress reduction, improved coping skills, communication, and self-esteem. My eclectic approach includes extensive knowledge in cognitive behavioral, client-centered, and trauma-informed therapy modalities. As an Afro-Latina myself, I know that having a culturally-sensitive therapist is very important to ensure that clients feel heard and supported in sessions. I believe in creating a space of acceptance and unconditional positive regard in order to foster self-acceptance and healing.
(716) 321-0817 View (716) 321-0817
Photo of Cecily Portillo, Psychologist in Nassau County, NY
Cecily Portillo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
I also aim to provide treatment that is culturally sensitive and considers your background, lifestyle, and values.
Do your emotions overwhelm you? Do they get away from you and lead to behaviors that affect your relationships, career and/or sense of self? Has it been more difficult than usual to manage your worry thoughts or your mood? It can be difficult to build the life you want when strong emotions get in the way. While it might not seem possible now, you CAN rein them in and I’d like to show you how.
I also aim to provide treatment that is culturally sensitive and considers your background, lifestyle, and values.
Do your emotions overwhelm you? Do they get away from you and lead to behaviors that affect your relationships, career and/or sense of self? Has it been more difficult than usual to manage your worry thoughts or your mood? It can be difficult to build the life you want when strong emotions get in the way. While it might not seem possible now, you CAN rein them in and I’d like to show you how.
(347) 252-9744 View (347) 252-9744
Photo of Dr. Christine Romano, Counselor in Nassau County, NY
Dr. Christine Romano
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, EMDR, CST
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530  (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 Samantha H Feldman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nassau County, NY
Samantha H Feldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, IMH-E®
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oceanside, NY 11572  (Online Only)
I am a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a deep commitment to providing trauma-informed and culturally sensitive care and support to children, teens, and young adults.
In my practice, I integrate evidence-based approaches tailored to young children, teens, young adults and perinatal individuals. For children, teens and young adults, I utilize play therapy, art therapy, and other age-appropriate interventions that allow them to express themselves freely, build resilience and emotional well-being. For perinatal individuals, I offer a safe and supportive environment to explore the complex emotions that can arise during this transformative period, while also providing practical tools for managing stress, enhancing self-care, and fostering healthy relationships.
I am a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a deep commitment to providing trauma-informed and culturally sensitive care and support to children, teens, and young adults.
In my practice, I integrate evidence-based approaches tailored to young children, teens, young adults and perinatal individuals. For children, teens and young adults, I utilize play therapy, art therapy, and other age-appropriate interventions that allow them to express themselves freely, build resilience and emotional well-being. For perinatal individuals, I offer a safe and supportive environment to explore the complex emotions that can arise during this transformative period, while also providing practical tools for managing stress, enhancing self-care, and fostering healthy relationships.
(347) 947-2230 View (347) 947-2230
Photo of Alaa M. Shareef, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nassau County, NY
Alaa M. Shareef
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, EdM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Stream, NY 11580
She uses a person-centered model coupled with an eclectic approach to integrate skills from multiple modalities while adapting her interventions to be culturally sensitive.
I believe that every individual has great potential and deserves to live a fulfilling life; I also recognize that difficulties and obstacles are inevitable. My goal for therapy is to create a safe space for my clients to explore how those difficulties and obstacles may affect them — physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually — and to use the therapeutic space to practice bringing forward their strengths so that they can see themselves beyond their problems. When you come to me, you’re not just my client. You’re a fellow human with hopes, dreams, vulnerabilities, strengths, weaknesses and ultimately potential.
She uses a person-centered model coupled with an eclectic approach to integrate skills from multiple modalities while adapting her interventions to be culturally sensitive.
I believe that every individual has great potential and deserves to live a fulfilling life; I also recognize that difficulties and obstacles are inevitable. My goal for therapy is to create a safe space for my clients to explore how those difficulties and obstacles may affect them — physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually — and to use the therapeutic space to practice bringing forward their strengths so that they can see themselves beyond their problems. When you come to me, you’re not just my client. You’re a fellow human with hopes, dreams, vulnerabilities, strengths, weaknesses and ultimately potential.
(516) 788-6170 View (516) 788-6170
Photo of Mona El-Shahat, Counselor in Nassau County, NY
Mona El-Shahat
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Valley Stream, NY 11580  (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 Malaika A. Small, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nassau County, NY
Malaika A. Small
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hempstead, NY 11549  (Online Only)
With a strong foundation in culturally sensitive and trauma-informed practices, I provide a safe and affirming space for individuals from all backgrounds to explore their inner worlds, heal past wounds, and navigate life's challenges.
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and cultural sensitivity. Each person's journey is unique, and I tailor my therapeutic interventions to meet the specific needs of my clients. My goal is to empower individuals to find their inner strength, resilience, and healing by helping individuals break free from the patterns that have been passed down through generations and empower them to lead more fulfilling lives. I believe that by understanding and embracing your individuality, you can unlock your true potential and lead a fulfilling life. Together, we'll embark on a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and healing.
With a strong foundation in culturally sensitive and trauma-informed practices, I provide a safe and affirming space for individuals from all backgrounds to explore their inner worlds, heal past wounds, and navigate life's challenges.
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and cultural sensitivity. Each person's journey is unique, and I tailor my therapeutic interventions to meet the specific needs of my clients. My goal is to empower individuals to find their inner strength, resilience, and healing by helping individuals break free from the patterns that have been passed down through generations and empower them to lead more fulfilling lives. I believe that by understanding and embracing your individuality, you can unlock your true potential and lead a fulfilling life. Together, we'll embark on a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and healing.
(929) 470-2532 View (929) 470-2532
Photo of Samantha Kane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nassau County, NY
Samantha Kane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roslyn, NY 11576
Welcome, thanks for stopping by. Many of us are carrying around the heavy burden of invisible challenges. Though they’re not noticeable—to others and sometimes even ourselves—they can make life feel more difficult, stressful, and at times even unmanageable. I am here to offer you support, so you’re not carrying that load alone. In our work, you will set the tone and I will be there to listen and foster a safe and judgment-free environment, so we can uncover the root of your distress, process your emotions, and develop beneficial coping skills, creating more space for peace in your life.
Welcome, thanks for stopping by. Many of us are carrying around the heavy burden of invisible challenges. Though they’re not noticeable—to others and sometimes even ourselves—they can make life feel more difficult, stressful, and at times even unmanageable. I am here to offer you support, so you’re not carrying that load alone. In our work, you will set the tone and I will be there to listen and foster a safe and judgment-free environment, so we can uncover the root of your distress, process your emotions, and develop beneficial coping skills, creating more space for peace in your life.
(646) 798-9700 View (646) 798-9700

See more therapy options for Nassau 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.