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Online Therapists

Photo of Asad Ali, RP(q), MPS, BKin, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Asad Ali
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(q), MPS, BKin
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1K  (Online Only)
I understand how difficult it is to be true to our faith in a secular world. Navigating these challenges can seem so daunting at times, but there is a solution. I believe in a holistic approach to healing, where mental, physical, and spiritual well-being are all addressed. I work with individuals, particularly from the Muslim community, who are struggling with challenges that profoundly affect their personal and spiritual lives. These challenges might include addictions, such as pornography or sexual addiction, which have not only impacted their relationships but have also created a sense of disconnection from their faith.
I understand how difficult it is to be true to our faith in a secular world. Navigating these challenges can seem so daunting at times, but there is a solution. I believe in a holistic approach to healing, where mental, physical, and spiritual well-being are all addressed. I work with individuals, particularly from the Muslim community, who are struggling with challenges that profoundly affect their personal and spiritual lives. These challenges might include addictions, such as pornography or sexual addiction, which have not only impacted their relationships but have also created a sense of disconnection from their faith.
(289) 207-5080 View (289) 207-5080
Photo of Sarah Yousuf, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sarah Yousuf
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4X  (Online Only)
Drawing on her own lived experiences as a Black Muslim, she intimately grasps the intricate interplay of intersectionalities in one’s life, which often places marginalized individuals in challenging situations.
Sarah Yousuf is a registered social worker and psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Services Workers. Aside from her secular studies, she received her Ta’leem Al Quran Certificate from Al Huda Institute Canada where she studied the Tafseer of the Quran. Wanting to pursue her religious studies further, she moved to Egypt to study Arabic and Islamic Studies. Her goal in therapy is to combine both the secular and religious knowledge she has acquired to create a powerful mode towards psycho-spiritual well-being for clients, that is rooted in the Quran and Sunnah.
Drawing on her own lived experiences as a Black Muslim, she intimately grasps the intricate interplay of intersectionalities in one’s life, which often places marginalized individuals in challenging situations.
Sarah Yousuf is a registered social worker and psychotherapist with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Services Workers. Aside from her secular studies, she received her Ta’leem Al Quran Certificate from Al Huda Institute Canada where she studied the Tafseer of the Quran. Wanting to pursue her religious studies further, she moved to Egypt to study Arabic and Islamic Studies. Her goal in therapy is to combine both the secular and religious knowledge she has acquired to create a powerful mode towards psycho-spiritual well-being for clients, that is rooted in the Quran and Sunnah.
(437) 747-4673 View (437) 747-4673
Photo of Shamsad Texiwala, BSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Shamsad Texiwala
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6S  (Online Only)
As a first-generation Indian Muslim, I have had meaningful experiences working with South Asian populations navigating their mental health concerns and family dynamics.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you to navigate through difficult situations, life changes and events. Together, we can focus on skills that foster resiliency in the face of inevitable challenges and stressors. I have several years of experience working with teens and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, substance use and other mental health concerns. I appreciate the complexities and challenges that life has to offer, especially from a cultural and racial lens.
As a first-generation Indian Muslim, I have had meaningful experiences working with South Asian populations navigating their mental health concerns and family dynamics.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you to navigate through difficult situations, life changes and events. Together, we can focus on skills that foster resiliency in the face of inevitable challenges and stressors. I have several years of experience working with teens and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, substance use and other mental health concerns. I appreciate the complexities and challenges that life has to offer, especially from a cultural and racial lens.
(289) 207-6520 View (289) 207-6520
Photo of Shazia Arif, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Shazia Arif
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1K
As a South Asian Muslim woman, I have had the privilege of seeing the world through those identities and gained a deep understanding of the systems in play. I support individuals navigate through the struggles they experience in identity, relationships, emotional regulation, self-esteem, anxiety and other mental health issues. I also work with challenges related to faith, spirituality, cultural differences, and discrimination. If you can relate to these struggles and are looking for a way to navigate through this, I would be happy to create an environment that promotes growth and work towards a positive outcome.
As a South Asian Muslim woman, I have had the privilege of seeing the world through those identities and gained a deep understanding of the systems in play. I support individuals navigate through the struggles they experience in identity, relationships, emotional regulation, self-esteem, anxiety and other mental health issues. I also work with challenges related to faith, spirituality, cultural differences, and discrimination. If you can relate to these struggles and are looking for a way to navigate through this, I would be happy to create an environment that promotes growth and work towards a positive outcome.
(289) 216-6829 View (289) 216-6829
Photo of Hani Osman, MA, RP (Q), Registered Psychotherapist
Hani Osman
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C  (Online Only)
Healing can be so messy, hard but so beautiful. On this path, I hope to guide you through the high and lows that come with being human. As a Black, muslim therapist, I use my own experiences coupled with my passion to predominantly provide support for folks struggling with depression and/or anxiety and those who are struggling with an eating disorder. My goal is to work with you in creating effective goals to get to the root of your problems to then reduce the symptoms you are experiencing, so you can live the life you want. I aim to create a positive and open space for you to safely navigate through your experiences.
Healing can be so messy, hard but so beautiful. On this path, I hope to guide you through the high and lows that come with being human. As a Black, muslim therapist, I use my own experiences coupled with my passion to predominantly provide support for folks struggling with depression and/or anxiety and those who are struggling with an eating disorder. My goal is to work with you in creating effective goals to get to the root of your problems to then reduce the symptoms you are experiencing, so you can live the life you want. I aim to create a positive and open space for you to safely navigate through your experiences.
(647) 363-7445 View (647) 363-7445
Photo of Sumara Riaz, MSc, ADMH, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sumara Riaz
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSc, ADMH, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6S  (Online Only)
As being a Muslim woman, mother, and first generation Canadian, I found it’s difficult to navigate through too many roles and responsibilities that lead us towards facing many mental health issues of anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and low self esteem, at times. I can help you with navigating through these challenges, staying focused, engaged, working towards and achieving your life goals as well as in attaining an authentic self. I have graduated in Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology, qualified to provide virtual counselling and psychotherapy under the supervision of an approved supervisor.
As being a Muslim woman, mother, and first generation Canadian, I found it’s difficult to navigate through too many roles and responsibilities that lead us towards facing many mental health issues of anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and low self esteem, at times. I can help you with navigating through these challenges, staying focused, engaged, working towards and achieving your life goals as well as in attaining an authentic self. I have graduated in Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology, qualified to provide virtual counselling and psychotherapy under the supervision of an approved supervisor.
(289) 806-5015 View (289) 806-5015
Photo of Sofia Noreen - Sofia Noreen, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sofia Noreen
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1K  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, challenging relationships, and loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationship, work and career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, lost by relatable problems, just getting through the day, and thought that there is no light at the end of the tunnel? Do you question that life could be better? Being a Muslim, immigrant Mom, I also have been through these challenges while going through the acculturation process. My expertise in the mental health field has been helpful for me to overcome my struggles.
Accepting New Clients! Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, challenging relationships, and loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationship, work and career? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, lost by relatable problems, just getting through the day, and thought that there is no light at the end of the tunnel? Do you question that life could be better? Being a Muslim, immigrant Mom, I also have been through these challenges while going through the acculturation process. My expertise in the mental health field has been helpful for me to overcome my struggles.
(437) 292-3870 View (437) 292-3870
Photo of Sarah Ahmed - Leena, BSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Leena
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5L  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
She is the founder of Canadian Muslim Addiction Association and often provides workshops on substance abuse and addictive behaviors in the community.
Sarah Ahmed completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Masters of Social Work degree from University of Toronto, specializing in Mental Health and Addictions. Sarah has worked with a diverse clientele within a multitude of clinical inpatient and outpatient settings. Sarah provides individual and group counselling to individuals suffering from mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, coupled with co-occurring substance use issues. Additionally, Sarah also provides support for loved ones on how to sustain healthy relationships and manage life stressors.
She is the founder of Canadian Muslim Addiction Association and often provides workshops on substance abuse and addictive behaviors in the community.
Sarah Ahmed completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Masters of Social Work degree from University of Toronto, specializing in Mental Health and Addictions. Sarah has worked with a diverse clientele within a multitude of clinical inpatient and outpatient settings. Sarah provides individual and group counselling to individuals suffering from mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, coupled with co-occurring substance use issues. Additionally, Sarah also provides support for loved ones on how to sustain healthy relationships and manage life stressors.
(647) 490-8723 View (647) 490-8723
Photo of Shani @ Hatch-Me Therapy, MS, BCBA
Shani @ Hatch-Me Therapy
MS, BCBA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4W
Sometimes all we need is a little guidance to help us combat darkness, move past hurdles, and restore our sense of 'self'. My goal as your therapist is to help you heal, while equipping you with skills that allow you to take on life's challenges, such as: bolstering communication, emotional regulation, and self-empowerment. We can work together to free your world from unwanted guests like anxiety and depression, while learning ways to invite self-love. In order to make transformative changes to your life, I incorporate evidence-based approaches including: CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Behavioural Skills Training, and more!
Sometimes all we need is a little guidance to help us combat darkness, move past hurdles, and restore our sense of 'self'. My goal as your therapist is to help you heal, while equipping you with skills that allow you to take on life's challenges, such as: bolstering communication, emotional regulation, and self-empowerment. We can work together to free your world from unwanted guests like anxiety and depression, while learning ways to invite self-love. In order to make transformative changes to your life, I incorporate evidence-based approaches including: CBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Behavioural Skills Training, and more!
(289) 302-2595 View (289) 302-2595
Photo of Khatiza Bi, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Khatiza Bi Bi
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B  (Online Only)
Are your thoughts taking control? Not feeling yourself? Experienced something tough recently that you can't seem to get past? Going through family struggles, relationship conflict or communication breakdown? Or are you looking for help for a child or teen? Sometimes life struggles can become roadblocks that prevent us from working towards our goals and living our best, most fulfilling lives. As a therapist, I want to help you work through those roadblocks. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space to help you work through struggles, achieve your goals and get back to a fulfilling, meaningful life.
Are your thoughts taking control? Not feeling yourself? Experienced something tough recently that you can't seem to get past? Going through family struggles, relationship conflict or communication breakdown? Or are you looking for help for a child or teen? Sometimes life struggles can become roadblocks that prevent us from working towards our goals and living our best, most fulfilling lives. As a therapist, I want to help you work through those roadblocks. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space to help you work through struggles, achieve your goals and get back to a fulfilling, meaningful life.
(365) 305-0182 View (365) 305-0182
Photo of Laura Davids - CBT Wellness & Virtual Services, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
CBT Wellness & Virtual Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pickering, ON L1V
Accepting NEW patients. Are you or your child feeling: overwhelmed, stuck, or on edge? Experiencing mood swings, flashbacks or urges? Having trouble sleeping, managing emotions or getting through the day? Are you having communication or trust issues in your relationshpi? You are NOT alone & we CAN help. We have helped hundreds of people THRIVE in their life & we look forward to helping you too! Our professional, compassionate & experienced therapists have immediate openings for SAME day & NEXT day appointments for individual, couples & family therapy to children (5+), youth and adults.
Accepting NEW patients. Are you or your child feeling: overwhelmed, stuck, or on edge? Experiencing mood swings, flashbacks or urges? Having trouble sleeping, managing emotions or getting through the day? Are you having communication or trust issues in your relationshpi? You are NOT alone & we CAN help. We have helped hundreds of people THRIVE in their life & we look forward to helping you too! Our professional, compassionate & experienced therapists have immediate openings for SAME day & NEXT day appointments for individual, couples & family therapy to children (5+), youth and adults.
(289) 301-7240 View (289) 301-7240
Photo of Aisha Ibrahim, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Aisha Ibrahim
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pickering, ON L1V  (Online Only)
Negative thoughts play a big part in causing and making anxiety and depression worse. On the other hand, anxiety and depression make these negative thoughts even stronger. It's important to realize that constantly having negative thoughts can make a person feel drained and hopeless. This can stop someone from growing and being happy. However, getting out of this harmful cycle requires replacing negative tendencies with more positive ones. Accepting imperfections, acknowledging accomplishments, and practicing self-love can all help a person grow and find real happiness.
Negative thoughts play a big part in causing and making anxiety and depression worse. On the other hand, anxiety and depression make these negative thoughts even stronger. It's important to realize that constantly having negative thoughts can make a person feel drained and hopeless. This can stop someone from growing and being happy. However, getting out of this harmful cycle requires replacing negative tendencies with more positive ones. Accepting imperfections, acknowledging accomplishments, and practicing self-love can all help a person grow and find real happiness.
(289) 204-6148 View (289) 204-6148
Photo of The Relationship Agency - The Relationship Agency, OCSWSSW, Registered Social Worker
The Relationship Agency
Registered Social Worker, OCSWSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1H
Struggling in your marriage, single and navigating a breakup or divorce, unsatisfied or in conflict at work, stressed by or grieving family dynamics, anxious about your life decisions - the common thread is relationships. The Relationship Agency is a group of expert therapists who help people to navigate relationships, work, life transitions, anxiety, grief, and depression - and all the other experiences that make us human. We believe relationships are everything, and help people improve their lives by mastering relationships - in love, family, and at work.
Struggling in your marriage, single and navigating a breakup or divorce, unsatisfied or in conflict at work, stressed by or grieving family dynamics, anxious about your life decisions - the common thread is relationships. The Relationship Agency is a group of expert therapists who help people to navigate relationships, work, life transitions, anxiety, grief, and depression - and all the other experiences that make us human. We believe relationships are everything, and help people improve their lives by mastering relationships - in love, family, and at work.
(289) 536-4425 View (289) 536-4425
Photo of Dr. Leyla Javam Psychologist, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Leyla Javam Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4W  (Online Only)
Everyone is deserving of being seen, heard, and understood in a safe, validating, and non-judgemental therapeutic space. Email me to schedule a free intake call. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist (PhD) with registration in working with adults, adolescents, children, & families. As both an adult & child/adolescent psychologist I provide a unique lifespan approach to our work. I offer Ontario-wide virtual psychological support to adults (18+) with a range of mental health presentations, as well as parenting & coparenting support to caregivers of children 0+. Virtual services are also available to residents of Quebec, NS, & NB.
Everyone is deserving of being seen, heard, and understood in a safe, validating, and non-judgemental therapeutic space. Email me to schedule a free intake call. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist (PhD) with registration in working with adults, adolescents, children, & families. As both an adult & child/adolescent psychologist I provide a unique lifespan approach to our work. I offer Ontario-wide virtual psychological support to adults (18+) with a range of mental health presentations, as well as parenting & coparenting support to caregivers of children 0+. Virtual services are also available to residents of Quebec, NS, & NB.
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Photo of Wajiha Afaq, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Wajiha Afaq
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1J  (Online Only)
Let's be real- life can get tough. You may be faced with challenges such as experiencing trauma or loss, navigating complex relationship or family dynamics, encountering discrimination at school or work, or overcoming financial stressors. These difficulties can be further amplified as a person of colour and being raised in an immigrant household. Naturally, hardships can evoke feelings of hopelessness, numbness, or anxiety. You may find yourself feeling stuck and unable to move forward. Or you may be relying on coping mechanisms that, while once helpful, no longer serve you, and struggling to break free from these habits.
Let's be real- life can get tough. You may be faced with challenges such as experiencing trauma or loss, navigating complex relationship or family dynamics, encountering discrimination at school or work, or overcoming financial stressors. These difficulties can be further amplified as a person of colour and being raised in an immigrant household. Naturally, hardships can evoke feelings of hopelessness, numbness, or anxiety. You may find yourself feeling stuck and unable to move forward. Or you may be relying on coping mechanisms that, while once helpful, no longer serve you, and struggling to break free from these habits.
(289) 207-7903 View (289) 207-7903
Photo of Hira Sandhu, RSW, MSW, BSW, Registered Social Worker
Hira Sandhu
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6R  (Online Only)
I am a Psychotherapist with comprehensive knowledge of strengths-based, client-centered social work practice, and clear understanding of the challenges affecting the lives of various vulnerable communities. I incorporate a variety of therapeutic modalities to best meet and support the needs and goals of each individual. Accessing mental health support is already challenging as it is, therefore, I want to utilize my skill set to help individuals identify their areas of improvement and provide them with tools to help them achieve their goals.
I am a Psychotherapist with comprehensive knowledge of strengths-based, client-centered social work practice, and clear understanding of the challenges affecting the lives of various vulnerable communities. I incorporate a variety of therapeutic modalities to best meet and support the needs and goals of each individual. Accessing mental health support is already challenging as it is, therefore, I want to utilize my skill set to help individuals identify their areas of improvement and provide them with tools to help them achieve their goals.
(289) 206-8692 View (289) 206-8692
Photo of Mahum Cheema, MACP, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Mahum Cheema
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5L
As an immigrant and from a BIPOC community myself, I understand the differing differing struggles that come with belonging o a marginalized community. The constant struggles between ones intersectionalities, as we attempt to find a delicate balance between conflicting worldviews is a challenge I know all too well. This has helped fuel my desire to be an inclusive therapist, that serves as a pillar of empowerment for my clients. In line with an inclusive approach, a client-centred approach is central to my practice, as it helps me foster a non-judgemental space, where you can be your truest self.
As an immigrant and from a BIPOC community myself, I understand the differing differing struggles that come with belonging o a marginalized community. The constant struggles between ones intersectionalities, as we attempt to find a delicate balance between conflicting worldviews is a challenge I know all too well. This has helped fuel my desire to be an inclusive therapist, that serves as a pillar of empowerment for my clients. In line with an inclusive approach, a client-centred approach is central to my practice, as it helps me foster a non-judgemental space, where you can be your truest self.
(647) 952-1861 View (647) 952-1861
Photo of Debbie Waters - OTC- Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Psychotherapist, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
OTC- Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Psychotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Newmarket, ON L3X
DIRECT billing Available! The guided principle of personalized care is at the heart of our approach. We believe in the power of collaboration. We pride ourselves on the wide array of services we offer, facilitated by a diverse team of mental health professionals. This includes Clinical Psychologists/Neuropsychologists, Registered Psychotherapists, and Registered Social Workers. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of mental health, we also collaborate with PMVC Psychiatrists across Ontario in order to provide diagnosis, medication recommendations/reviews and psychotherapy recommendations to clients receiving treatment through us.
DIRECT billing Available! The guided principle of personalized care is at the heart of our approach. We believe in the power of collaboration. We pride ourselves on the wide array of services we offer, facilitated by a diverse team of mental health professionals. This includes Clinical Psychologists/Neuropsychologists, Registered Psychotherapists, and Registered Social Workers. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of mental health, we also collaborate with PMVC Psychiatrists across Ontario in order to provide diagnosis, medication recommendations/reviews and psychotherapy recommendations to clients receiving treatment through us.
(289) 723-1654 View (289) 723-1654
Photo of Manjusha Encharakunnil, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Manjusha Encharakunnil
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5T
It’s wonderful that you’re here and have taken the first step toward therapy to support your life goals. I appreciate your decision and am committed to supporting you every step of the way. My goal is to be both a friend and a guide, helping you explore your deepest fears and challenges while finding effective ways to overcome them. Don’t let anything stand in the way of your journey back to your true self. With our support, you’ll uncover your full potential and learn to approach life positively.
It’s wonderful that you’re here and have taken the first step toward therapy to support your life goals. I appreciate your decision and am committed to supporting you every step of the way. My goal is to be both a friend and a guide, helping you explore your deepest fears and challenges while finding effective ways to overcome them. Don’t let anything stand in the way of your journey back to your true self. With our support, you’ll uncover your full potential and learn to approach life positively.
(289) 276-5873 View (289) 276-5873
Photo of Aleena Kazi, MA, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Aleena Kazi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4S  (Online Only)
Welcome! Seeking support is a difficult first step and I applaud your strength for taking it! My role is to support you in your journey towards improved well-being, self-discovery and building resiliency. Together, we will work to process your past experiences, navigate difficult emotions, and understand your own unique patterns to help you gain a sense of balance and stability. Emotions and certain situations/experiences can sometimes feel big and scary, but together we can work to understand them, and I can help teach you coping skills to manage and regulate these situations/emotions. I will always prioritize your goals and needs.
Welcome! Seeking support is a difficult first step and I applaud your strength for taking it! My role is to support you in your journey towards improved well-being, self-discovery and building resiliency. Together, we will work to process your past experiences, navigate difficult emotions, and understand your own unique patterns to help you gain a sense of balance and stability. Emotions and certain situations/experiences can sometimes feel big and scary, but together we can work to understand them, and I can help teach you coping skills to manage and regulate these situations/emotions. I will always prioritize your goals and needs.
(647) 361-1086 View (647) 361-1086

See more therapy options for Bobcaygeon

Muslim Counsellors

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

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

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

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

What if the therapist does not have my exact background?

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

How do I recognise an effective Muslim therapist?

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

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

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