Multicultural Therapists in New York, NY

Photo of Michelle Peprah, Mental Health Counselor in New York, NY
Michelle Peprah
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Michelle believes in the power of a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship where individuals can come as they are. Michelle meets clients with empathy, compassion, and acceptance while encouraging a journey towards self-actualization, growth, and empowerment. Implementing an eclectic range of interventions unique to the client's needs, she navigates sessions through a person-centered, multicultural, and psychoanalytic approach.
Michelle believes in the power of a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship where individuals can come as they are. Michelle meets clients with empathy, compassion, and acceptance while encouraging a journey towards self-actualization, growth, and empowerment. Implementing an eclectic range of interventions unique to the client's needs, she navigates sessions through a person-centered, multicultural, and psychoanalytic approach.
(646) 970-1997 View (646) 970-1997
Photo of Dr. Thandika Brown, Psychologist in New York, NY
Dr. Thandika Brown
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019  (Online Only)
Psychodynamic Therapy & Multicultural Psychology are at the core of my practice.
Psychotherapy is a transformative experience that empowers you to explore your inner self in an affirming and nonjudgmental environment. This collaborative process involves us working together to navigate challenges and foster personal growth in a way that is uniquely tailored to your needs. I will accompany you on a journey of deep introspection into your thoughts and emotions, aiming to enhance your understanding of yourself, your patterns, and your potential for positive change. Ultimately, psychotherapy is a powerful tool for navigating life's complexities, fostering empowerment, and facilitating genuine, lasting transformation.
Psychodynamic Therapy & Multicultural Psychology are at the core of my practice.
Psychotherapy is a transformative experience that empowers you to explore your inner self in an affirming and nonjudgmental environment. This collaborative process involves us working together to navigate challenges and foster personal growth in a way that is uniquely tailored to your needs. I will accompany you on a journey of deep introspection into your thoughts and emotions, aiming to enhance your understanding of yourself, your patterns, and your potential for positive change. Ultimately, psychotherapy is a powerful tool for navigating life's complexities, fostering empowerment, and facilitating genuine, lasting transformation.
(646) 859-2947 View (646) 859-2947
Photo of Karen Gelder, Psychologist in New York, NY
Karen Gelder
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10065
Additionally, I believe the consideration of multicultural and social factors to be central to the understanding of individual concerns.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of disordered eating and body image concerns, as well as issues related to women's health, pregnancy, miscarriage, and adjustment to significant life transitions such as parenthood, work-family balance, college, career change, and loss. I believe a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship is essential in the facilitation of healing, and the process of growth and change. I employ an integrative method, drawing from various theoretical understandings and treatment modalities, to develop an effective approach to address distinct needs.
Additionally, I believe the consideration of multicultural and social factors to be central to the understanding of individual concerns.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in the treatment of disordered eating and body image concerns, as well as issues related to women's health, pregnancy, miscarriage, and adjustment to significant life transitions such as parenthood, work-family balance, college, career change, and loss. I believe a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship is essential in the facilitation of healing, and the process of growth and change. I employ an integrative method, drawing from various theoretical understandings and treatment modalities, to develop an effective approach to address distinct needs.
(347) 826-5868 View (347) 826-5868
Photo of Zachary Darr-Rodriguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Zachary Darr-Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019  (Online Only)
My areas of focus include anxiety, domestic violence, emerging adulthood, multicultural issues, parenting, and relationships (including polyamory and ethical non-monogamy).
Do you want to develop creative solutions for changes you wish to make? I am a cisgender, white and Latino, straight man. At the core of my philosophy is the belief that through genuine, collaborative and compassionate relationships, everyone is capable of change and growth. I will work with you to create an environment in which you feel safe to express the full spectrum of your identities. I will encourage you to reflect upon how your previous experiences impact your current thoughts, emotions and behaviors.
My areas of focus include anxiety, domestic violence, emerging adulthood, multicultural issues, parenting, and relationships (including polyamory and ethical non-monogamy).
Do you want to develop creative solutions for changes you wish to make? I am a cisgender, white and Latino, straight man. At the core of my philosophy is the belief that through genuine, collaborative and compassionate relationships, everyone is capable of change and growth. I will work with you to create an environment in which you feel safe to express the full spectrum of your identities. I will encourage you to reflect upon how your previous experiences impact your current thoughts, emotions and behaviors.
Photo of Daren Esquéda-Liff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Daren Esquéda-Liff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where issues relating to trauma, self-esteem, race, gender, sexuality, and identity development can be discussed openly and confidentially. I use a multicultural lens with a wide array of cognitive skills and tools to pull from when needed. I am a trauma informed, psychodynamic therapist with experience and training in EMDR, somatic therapies, and mindfulness based approaches. I would be more than happy to speak with you and am currently accepting new clients.
I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where issues relating to trauma, self-esteem, race, gender, sexuality, and identity development can be discussed openly and confidentially. I use a multicultural lens with a wide array of cognitive skills and tools to pull from when needed. I am a trauma informed, psychodynamic therapist with experience and training in EMDR, somatic therapies, and mindfulness based approaches. I would be more than happy to speak with you and am currently accepting new clients.
(332) 262-7857 View (332) 262-7857
Photo of Dr. Alyssa Deitchman, Psychologist in New York, NY
Dr. Alyssa Deitchman
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
Through my varied training opportunities in and around New York City, I have extensive experience treating a wide array of clinical presentations and demographic characteristics and thereby work from a multicultural and allied perspective.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with an extensive background in research, clinical assessment, diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, my clinical approach is informed by empirically validated treatments and techniques, including psychodynamic psychotherapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Like using psychotherapy outcome research to inform my clinical work, I employ a methodological approach to disentangling the various biological, social, and environmental factors that may be contributing to your current and past difficulties. My approach is intensely collaborative and transparent in nature.
Through my varied training opportunities in and around New York City, I have extensive experience treating a wide array of clinical presentations and demographic characteristics and thereby work from a multicultural and allied perspective.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with an extensive background in research, clinical assessment, diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, my clinical approach is informed by empirically validated treatments and techniques, including psychodynamic psychotherapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Like using psychotherapy outcome research to inform my clinical work, I employ a methodological approach to disentangling the various biological, social, and environmental factors that may be contributing to your current and past difficulties. My approach is intensely collaborative and transparent in nature.
(332) 378-5293 View (332) 378-5293
Photo of Ellen Simpao, Psychologist in New York, NY
Ellen Simpao
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10012
Hello! I am a first-generation Filipino-American who is attuned to the issues that immigrants and people of color/multicultural individuals experience. I also specialize in patients with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, grief, and parenting issues and do asylum and n648 evals. I’m experienced in working with a wide range of ages (adolescence, college, young and later adulthood), LGBTQIA+ issues, and various forms of relationships. My therapeutic approach is wellness centered. When thought and behavior patterns that once helped you cope and survive aren’t useful anymore, a therapeutic intervention can be helpful.
Hello! I am a first-generation Filipino-American who is attuned to the issues that immigrants and people of color/multicultural individuals experience. I also specialize in patients with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, grief, and parenting issues and do asylum and n648 evals. I’m experienced in working with a wide range of ages (adolescence, college, young and later adulthood), LGBTQIA+ issues, and various forms of relationships. My therapeutic approach is wellness centered. When thought and behavior patterns that once helped you cope and survive aren’t useful anymore, a therapeutic intervention can be helpful.
(646) 787-1437 View (646) 787-1437
Photo of Yoko Iwaki, Counselor in New York, NY
Yoko Iwaki
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I work with young adults and professionals in their path to self-discovery and healing. I specialize in treating trauma and relationship issues. I have also been trained in cross-cultural psychology and help individuals to explore their multicultural identities. In addition, I apply the knowledge I have gained through my experiences as a leadership and management consultant to help individuals who are striving to find greater purpose and meaning in their careers.
I work with young adults and professionals in their path to self-discovery and healing. I specialize in treating trauma and relationship issues. I have also been trained in cross-cultural psychology and help individuals to explore their multicultural identities. In addition, I apply the knowledge I have gained through my experiences as a leadership and management consultant to help individuals who are striving to find greater purpose and meaning in their careers.
(646) 759-4423 View (646) 759-4423
Photo of Emily R Shapiro, Marriage & Family Therapist in New York, NY
Emily R Shapiro
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10282
Welcome! I work with individuals, couples, and families with the understanding that most issues people face are relational and that healing comes from connection. I have expertise in C-PTSD, unconventional relationship structures, all stages of parenting including adult children, and climate anxiety and grief. I draw from multiple models: Emotionally Focused, Narrative, Mindfulness, Somatic, and Improv, with a sensitivity to multicultural backgrounds. I’m an actively engaged, compassionate therapist who’s fond of the saying, “People who laugh together, last together.” Upcoming groups: Improv for Couples; Mothers of Adult Children.
Welcome! I work with individuals, couples, and families with the understanding that most issues people face are relational and that healing comes from connection. I have expertise in C-PTSD, unconventional relationship structures, all stages of parenting including adult children, and climate anxiety and grief. I draw from multiple models: Emotionally Focused, Narrative, Mindfulness, Somatic, and Improv, with a sensitivity to multicultural backgrounds. I’m an actively engaged, compassionate therapist who’s fond of the saying, “People who laugh together, last together.” Upcoming groups: Improv for Couples; Mothers of Adult Children.
(760) 550-9020 View (760) 550-9020
Photo of Christine Cheung, Counselor in New York, NY
Christine Cheung
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10007  (Online Only)
Utilizing a multicultural and trauma-informed approach, I strive to create a collaborative space that provides a unique opportunity to check in with yourself.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) practicing in New York City. I work with diverse clients with various presenting issues including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and life transitions. I have experience treating clients with issues relating to perfectionism, identity and self-esteem, burnout, and addiction. I also specialize in navigating complex trauma, relationship and family conflicts, and immigrant and first-generation multicultural issues. I utilize an integrative approach, drawing from psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral theories to form individualized treatment plans.
Utilizing a multicultural and trauma-informed approach, I strive to create a collaborative space that provides a unique opportunity to check in with yourself.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) practicing in New York City. I work with diverse clients with various presenting issues including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and life transitions. I have experience treating clients with issues relating to perfectionism, identity and self-esteem, burnout, and addiction. I also specialize in navigating complex trauma, relationship and family conflicts, and immigrant and first-generation multicultural issues. I utilize an integrative approach, drawing from psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral theories to form individualized treatment plans.
(332) 263-3016 View (332) 263-3016
Photo of Elizabeth Sabga, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York, NY
Elizabeth Sabga
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10012  (Online Only)
As a trauma-informed therapist with a multicultural background, I specialize in guiding young adults and adults (18-35) through their unique journeys of self-discovery and healing. My experience as an immigrant woman enriches my understanding of how diverse identities—including race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality—shape your world.
As a trauma-informed therapist with a multicultural background, I specialize in guiding young adults and adults (18-35) through their unique journeys of self-discovery and healing. My experience as an immigrant woman enriches my understanding of how diverse identities—including race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality—shape your world.
(347) 609-7584 View (347) 609-7584
Photo of Jennie Sharf, Psychologist in New York, NY
Jennie Sharf
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
I am committed to working in a multicultural- and LGBTQI-affirming therapy environment.
I help people with anxiety, depression, stress at work or home, and feeling stuck. I provide emotional support and a safe space for you to share your concerns. I am an active participant in therapy, and offer new perspectives that challenge you to better understand and ultimately change self-defeating patterns. We will work together, with the goal of helping you make lasting emotional and behavioral change. I utilize psychodynamic psychotherapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which focus on helping clients regulate emotions, tolerate distress, develop mindfulness skills, and enjoy more effective interpersonal relationships.
I am committed to working in a multicultural- and LGBTQI-affirming therapy environment.
I help people with anxiety, depression, stress at work or home, and feeling stuck. I provide emotional support and a safe space for you to share your concerns. I am an active participant in therapy, and offer new perspectives that challenge you to better understand and ultimately change self-defeating patterns. We will work together, with the goal of helping you make lasting emotional and behavioral change. I utilize psychodynamic psychotherapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which focus on helping clients regulate emotions, tolerate distress, develop mindfulness skills, and enjoy more effective interpersonal relationships.
(347) 394-0085 View (347) 394-0085
Photo of Dr. Naeema Akter, Psychologist in New York, NY
Dr. Naeema Akter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
My integrative approach is well-suited for addressing interpersonal and multicultural issues.
When overwhelmed by the world and those around you, you may experience feeling dissatisfied or drained with your relationships, occupation, and other aspects of your life. Or you may be curious about your inner experiences and want to learn more about yourself to become more self-aware, present, and adept at handling life’s troubles. You deserve a therapist who will work with you to improve the quality of your life. I’m a licensed clinical Psychologist and I’d love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
My integrative approach is well-suited for addressing interpersonal and multicultural issues.
When overwhelmed by the world and those around you, you may experience feeling dissatisfied or drained with your relationships, occupation, and other aspects of your life. Or you may be curious about your inner experiences and want to learn more about yourself to become more self-aware, present, and adept at handling life’s troubles. You deserve a therapist who will work with you to improve the quality of your life. I’m a licensed clinical Psychologist and I’d love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
(646) 760-3299 View (646) 760-3299
Photo of Leyla Gulcur, Psychologist in New York, NY
Leyla Gulcur
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
I specialize in multicultural sex therapy and couples therapy.
You desire a more fulfilling relationship or sex life. Maybe it is a challenge to directly express your needs and you get stuck in repeating arguments that go nowhere. Perhaps you struggle with loss of passion or experience sexual anxiety. You may wonder how you can ask your partner for better emotional support, appreciation, alone time or good sex. If you're an expat or immigrant, or if you're in an intercultural relationship, you may run up against cultural differences. If you're in a non-traditional or open relationship, maybe you find it a challenge to navigate different values and relationship styles.
I specialize in multicultural sex therapy and couples therapy.
You desire a more fulfilling relationship or sex life. Maybe it is a challenge to directly express your needs and you get stuck in repeating arguments that go nowhere. Perhaps you struggle with loss of passion or experience sexual anxiety. You may wonder how you can ask your partner for better emotional support, appreciation, alone time or good sex. If you're an expat or immigrant, or if you're in an intercultural relationship, you may run up against cultural differences. If you're in a non-traditional or open relationship, maybe you find it a challenge to navigate different values and relationship styles.
(347) 472-1949 View (347) 472-1949
Photo of Brianna Halasa, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York, NY
Brianna Halasa
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Brianna utilizes a holistic and eclectic approach in her practice by tuning into the mind and body through cognitive, psychodynamic, multicultural, and feminist therapies, as well as incorporating mindfulness and breathwork techniques. We will collaborate to tailor an approach that best fits you in a nonjudgmental environment where you feel supported and encouraged to step into your vulnerability and talk about challenging topics.
Brianna utilizes a holistic and eclectic approach in her practice by tuning into the mind and body through cognitive, psychodynamic, multicultural, and feminist therapies, as well as incorporating mindfulness and breathwork techniques. We will collaborate to tailor an approach that best fits you in a nonjudgmental environment where you feel supported and encouraged to step into your vulnerability and talk about challenging topics.
(646) 257-5069 View (646) 257-5069
Photo of Selena Collazo in New York, NY
Selena Collazo
MFT-LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
A queer, biracial Black woman born into a multicultural family, one of my proudest achievements was when I became the first person in my family to earn a university degree.
I have the honor of accompanying fellow LGBTQIA+ individuals of color, especially those moving through life transitions, first-generation undergraduate & graduate students, academics, artists, writers, and those holding intersectional identities rooted in multicultural and interracial families, partnerships, and transcultural and/or adult adoption. In addition, I work with couples as well as poly individuals and ethically/consensually non-monogamous partnerships.
A queer, biracial Black woman born into a multicultural family, one of my proudest achievements was when I became the first person in my family to earn a university degree.
I have the honor of accompanying fellow LGBTQIA+ individuals of color, especially those moving through life transitions, first-generation undergraduate & graduate students, academics, artists, writers, and those holding intersectional identities rooted in multicultural and interracial families, partnerships, and transcultural and/or adult adoption. In addition, I work with couples as well as poly individuals and ethically/consensually non-monogamous partnerships.
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Photo of Anaam Hussain, Counselor in New York, NY
Anaam Hussain
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
Anaam is a multicultural competent therapist, working from a strength-based perspective utilizing evidenced based techniques.
Life comes with plenty of transitions & challenges, often we need a safe space to sort them all out with the help of the evidenced based tools that have been proven to foster change, and a therapist who will exhibit empathy & understanding. Anaam has over 15 years of experience in the field of therapy, working with individuals of diverse backgrounds going through many different challenges, including relationship issues, self esteem difficulties, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and difficult life transitions. Anaam is also deeply interested in women’s issues as well as the immigrant experience.
Anaam is a multicultural competent therapist, working from a strength-based perspective utilizing evidenced based techniques.
Life comes with plenty of transitions & challenges, often we need a safe space to sort them all out with the help of the evidenced based tools that have been proven to foster change, and a therapist who will exhibit empathy & understanding. Anaam has over 15 years of experience in the field of therapy, working with individuals of diverse backgrounds going through many different challenges, including relationship issues, self esteem difficulties, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and difficult life transitions. Anaam is also deeply interested in women’s issues as well as the immigrant experience.
(646) 793-6470 View (646) 793-6470
Photo of Peggy Loo, Psychologist in New York, NY
Peggy Loo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
Waitlist for new clients
I also prioritize understanding your multicultural identities and what they mean for you, as well as acknowledging how oppression impacts our emotional wellbeing.
I specialize in helping people struggling with chronic anxiety, burnout from perfectionism, and the effects of unaddressed trauma. I enjoy working with high achieving professionals or caregivers that often forget (or were discouraged) to care for themselves. I cultivate an encouraging, safe space for you to self-reflect and discuss your experiences so you can gain clarity and grow. Together, we may practice new coping skills, change patterns that no longer serve you, deepen self-understanding, (re)connect you to your body and emotions, or take steps towards building fulfilling relationships.
I also prioritize understanding your multicultural identities and what they mean for you, as well as acknowledging how oppression impacts our emotional wellbeing.
I specialize in helping people struggling with chronic anxiety, burnout from perfectionism, and the effects of unaddressed trauma. I enjoy working with high achieving professionals or caregivers that often forget (or were discouraged) to care for themselves. I cultivate an encouraging, safe space for you to self-reflect and discuss your experiences so you can gain clarity and grow. Together, we may practice new coping skills, change patterns that no longer serve you, deepen self-understanding, (re)connect you to your body and emotions, or take steps towards building fulfilling relationships.
(646) 846-5021 View (646) 846-5021
Photo of Simran Bharadwaj in New York, NY
Simran Bharadwaj
MHC-P
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I approach therapy through a multicultural lens, aiming to guide clients through a journey of wellness helping clients gain skills for optimal living. I take a holistic approach to therapy including mindfulness and meditation. I am trained in multiple theories such as humanistic theory and relational-cultural theory. I also draw from narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectic behavioral therapy, interpersonal and social rhythm therapy, and trauma informed therapy when necessary.
I approach therapy through a multicultural lens, aiming to guide clients through a journey of wellness helping clients gain skills for optimal living. I take a holistic approach to therapy including mindfulness and meditation. I am trained in multiple theories such as humanistic theory and relational-cultural theory. I also draw from narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectic behavioral therapy, interpersonal and social rhythm therapy, and trauma informed therapy when necessary.
(347) 894-2526 View (347) 894-2526
Photo of Ilona Fridson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Ilona Fridson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10023  (Online Only)
When you are facing challenges and adjusting to life transitions, I am here to help. As a clinician and clinical supervisor with 25 years of experience, I work with a diverse range of individuals, from young adults to older population. I have extensive experience providing support for families in crisis, parents, couples, and individuals. I have a great appreciation and knowledge of working with immigrants, multicultural communities, and LGBTQ+. My approach to therapy is collaborative, eclectic, and holistic. I listen very carefully to my clients' narratives, while I am process oriented, I am also strategic and resourceful.
When you are facing challenges and adjusting to life transitions, I am here to help. As a clinician and clinical supervisor with 25 years of experience, I work with a diverse range of individuals, from young adults to older population. I have extensive experience providing support for families in crisis, parents, couples, and individuals. I have a great appreciation and knowledge of working with immigrants, multicultural communities, and LGBTQ+. My approach to therapy is collaborative, eclectic, and holistic. I listen very carefully to my clients' narratives, while I am process oriented, I am also strategic and resourceful.
(862) 666-0555 View (862) 666-0555
Multicultural Therapists

What type of therapy is multicultural therapy?

Multicultural therapy is not tied to any specific therapy; rather, it is an overarching approach to therapy that aims to acknowledge and address the influence that factors like race, gender identity, and cultural background can have on someone’s life. Multicultural approaches can be applied to CBT, psychodynamic therapy, and others, and can be practiced with individuals, couples, families, or groups.

What can I expect from multicultural therapy?

Multicultural counseling should be tailored to the client’s unique identity and cultural needs. Such approaches often prioritize the building of trust so that the client feels comfortable exploring various aspects of their identity and any challenges caused by mismatches between their identity and the dominant culture. Beyond that, the format and timeline of therapy will be heavily influenced by the therapist’s preferred therapy approach and the specific problems for which the client sought therapy.

Can multicultural therapy help treat trauma?

Yes. Cultural factors such as racial background, gender identity and or sexuality, and immigration or refugee status can influence both whether someone experiences trauma and how they cope afterward. Multicultural approaches to trauma-informed care will be aware of these influences, helping the client recognize how their response to trauma may be shaped by their cultural background and identify coping mechanisms that take their identity into account.

What are the benefits of seeing a multicultural therapist?

Members of minority groups who seek therapy are sometimes frustrated by providers who don’t understand their cultural background or dismiss the ways in which race, gender, or other facets of their identity influence their lived experience. Seeing a multicultural therapist can help these clients feel seen, understood, and able to develop solutions to life challenges that take their upbringing, beliefs, and past experiences into account.