Therapists in Bowmanville, ON
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![Photo of Augustine Jatoe - LiveWise Associates-In Person Sessions!, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e01c4a7-af72-4440-9fc3-65ad54fb99d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
LiveWise Associates-In Person Sessions!
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1G
At LiveWise Associates we believe that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling life with optimal mental well-being. Our clinic is committed to empowering individuals in Ontario and beyond, providing a range of comprehensive mental health services. We take pride in offering key differentiators that set us apart from the rest. As a reputable mental health service provider LiveWise Associates is devoted to making a positive impact on the lives of our clients. We understand the unique challenges you may face, and we are here to support you on your journey to mental wellness. A team of over 15 therapists and direct billing Available!
At LiveWise Associates we believe that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling life with optimal mental well-being. Our clinic is committed to empowering individuals in Ontario and beyond, providing a range of comprehensive mental health services. We take pride in offering key differentiators that set us apart from the rest. As a reputable mental health service provider LiveWise Associates is devoted to making a positive impact on the lives of our clients. We understand the unique challenges you may face, and we are here to support you on your journey to mental wellness. A team of over 15 therapists and direct billing Available!
![Photo of Mariam Al-Awadi - Nur Wellness, CCC, RP, MA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0ea72f1-b6bf-4c86-949a-928c663bca8d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nur Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist, CCC, RP, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1G (Online Only)
Life can be stressful and overwhelming. Are you feeling down and don’t know how to move forward? Whether it is because of loneliness, feelings of failure, health problems, financial issues, career pressure, or relationships that have left you hurt and misunderstood, I am here to support you and provide a safe space on your journey to healing and self-awareness.
Life can be stressful and overwhelming. Are you feeling down and don’t know how to move forward? Whether it is because of loneliness, feelings of failure, health problems, financial issues, career pressure, or relationships that have left you hurt and misunderstood, I am here to support you and provide a safe space on your journey to healing and self-awareness.
![Photo of Laura Davids - CBT Wellness & Virtual Services, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a745814-c3af-4a08-8414-402646e44cdb/1/320x400.png)
CBT Wellness & Virtual Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1L
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.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Shamsad Texiwala, BSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0602b62-3286-4b81-b331-4adcc9d59578/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Saad Khalid - Naseeha Mental Health, MSW/RSW, RP/RPQ, Psych, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b4bb8ac-78cb-48ce-ae4e-be31638e786a/1/320x400.png)
Naseeha Mental Health
Registered Social Worker, MSW/RSW, RP/RPQ, Psych
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4Z (Online Only)
You can book us at naseeha.janeapp.com or email us at counselling at naseeha.net. Naseeha translates in Islamic contexts, good counsel, advice, or sincerity. Naseeha Mental Health is a Muslim non-profit that now offers virtual therapy across Canada! Our team of Muslim therapists are here to offer you support through your life challenges, from a faith and culturally sensitive background. We understand that deciding to start therapy is a significant and personal journey, and we're here to guide you every step of the way.
You can book us at naseeha.janeapp.com or email us at counselling at naseeha.net. Naseeha translates in Islamic contexts, good counsel, advice, or sincerity. Naseeha Mental Health is a Muslim non-profit that now offers virtual therapy across Canada! Our team of Muslim therapists are here to offer you support through your life challenges, from a faith and culturally sensitive background. We understand that deciding to start therapy is a significant and personal journey, and we're here to guide you every step of the way.
![Photo of Aamir Mohammed Subhan, RSW, MSW, BSW, HBSc, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/04c94488-8216-476a-88d5-0dd0dc730b07/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aamir Mohammed Subhan
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW, HBSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R (Online Only)
If you’re considering therapy it might feel like you have to have all the answers before you start, but your desire for change is enough. As a queer therapist, I'm dedicated to serving our 2SLGBTQ+ communities. I also have a passion for supporting healthcare providers, high-performance athletes, and members of the Muslim community. Therapy is a powerful tool that can help you navigate life's challenges. By exploring the interplay of comfort and discomfort, we create a space for transformation. Together, we'll work on amplifying your strengths, deepening your self-awareness, and challenging perspectives that may be holding you back.
If you’re considering therapy it might feel like you have to have all the answers before you start, but your desire for change is enough. As a queer therapist, I'm dedicated to serving our 2SLGBTQ+ communities. I also have a passion for supporting healthcare providers, high-performance athletes, and members of the Muslim community. Therapy is a powerful tool that can help you navigate life's challenges. By exploring the interplay of comfort and discomfort, we create a space for transformation. Together, we'll work on amplifying your strengths, deepening your self-awareness, and challenging perspectives that may be holding you back.
![Photo of Tarak Ahmed, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf8295da-703b-43bb-a9a8-507e09f76c12/1/320x400.jpeg)
Grounded in my identity as a Muslim, I also offer specialized faith-based counselling, merging traditional practices with contemporary therapeutic approaches.
With over a decade of dedicated experience in the realm of social work, I pride myself on a compassionate and client-centric approach, specializing in psychotherapy services catered to a diverse clientele. Over the course of my career, I have adeptly assisted individuals across a spectrum of backgrounds, addressing challenges ranging from life and career transitions, familial and marital issues, to self-esteem challenges, anxiety, and depression. My educational foundation is solidified with a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto and an undergraduate degree from Toronto Metropolitan University.
Grounded in my identity as a Muslim, I also offer specialized faith-based counselling, merging traditional practices with contemporary therapeutic approaches.
With over a decade of dedicated experience in the realm of social work, I pride myself on a compassionate and client-centric approach, specializing in psychotherapy services catered to a diverse clientele. Over the course of my career, I have adeptly assisted individuals across a spectrum of backgrounds, addressing challenges ranging from life and career transitions, familial and marital issues, to self-esteem challenges, anxiety, and depression. My educational foundation is solidified with a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto and an undergraduate degree from Toronto Metropolitan University.
![Photo of Afsheen Anwar - The H Factor Solutions, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09835aed-8800-4779-ae65-de06fc3bac7f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Afsheen Anwar is a registered clinical and counselling psychologist in Ontario and a member of CPA. She obtained her PhD in Psychology from Pakistan in 2012. From a Southeast-Asian, Muslim background, Dr. Anwar has been passionately involved with teaching, consulting & clinical practice since 2000 at a national & international level. She has over 23 years of clinical experience including assessment & therapy with individuals, couples & families, and has worked in both individual and group settings. She works with clients to address various issues including mood disturbances and anxiety, relationship conflict & personal growth.
Dr. Afsheen Anwar is a registered clinical and counselling psychologist in Ontario and a member of CPA. She obtained her PhD in Psychology from Pakistan in 2012. From a Southeast-Asian, Muslim background, Dr. Anwar has been passionately involved with teaching, consulting & clinical practice since 2000 at a national & international level. She has over 23 years of clinical experience including assessment & therapy with individuals, couples & families, and has worked in both individual and group settings. She works with clients to address various issues including mood disturbances and anxiety, relationship conflict & personal growth.
![Photo of Waleed Riaz, RP, HBSc, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ecd9b13a-c19b-45c9-8e59-83d1505ebcbd/3/320x400.jpeg)
Waleed Riaz
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, HBSc, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
As a Muslim South Asian Therapist, I provide culturally-adapted and trauma-focused services under the cognitive-behavioural framework, with the ability to integrate mindfulness, DBT, and motivational interviewing as needed to cultivate positive outcomes in the sessions.
Do you find yourself worrying about situations that may or could happen? Do you feel low, unmotivated, and hopeless? Do you find it difficult to cope with stress, or do you cope with distress through avoidance or substances? If so, you may be in the right place at the right time, let's connect! My specialty is working with males, females, and unspecified youth and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, and stress. I have extensive experience working with people of colour and Muslim populations. You deserve to live your best life, free from the weight of anxiety, depression, and the weight of others' misunderstandings.
As a Muslim South Asian Therapist, I provide culturally-adapted and trauma-focused services under the cognitive-behavioural framework, with the ability to integrate mindfulness, DBT, and motivational interviewing as needed to cultivate positive outcomes in the sessions.
Do you find yourself worrying about situations that may or could happen? Do you feel low, unmotivated, and hopeless? Do you find it difficult to cope with stress, or do you cope with distress through avoidance or substances? If so, you may be in the right place at the right time, let's connect! My specialty is working with males, females, and unspecified youth and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, addiction, and stress. I have extensive experience working with people of colour and Muslim populations. You deserve to live your best life, free from the weight of anxiety, depression, and the weight of others' misunderstandings.
![Photo of Sarah Ahmed - Leena, BSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46318b4a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Cierra Garrow - Cambrian Counselling and Wellness, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2149d83e-996f-4d97-9983-3c920b80d104/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cambrian Counselling and Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collingwood, ON L9Y
Here at CCW, we don't just focus on a singular aspect; we embrace your entire world—the relationship with yourself, family, friends, work, and the broader context of society shaping your experiences. Our approach involves immersing ourselves in your reality, understanding, and supporting you every step of the way. You're never alone in this journey. We understand that the cornerstone of successful therapy is the connection between the client and therapist. At CCW, nurturing this bond is paramount; we deeply value and honour the relationship we build with you, ensuring it's founded on respect and compassion.
Here at CCW, we don't just focus on a singular aspect; we embrace your entire world—the relationship with yourself, family, friends, work, and the broader context of society shaping your experiences. Our approach involves immersing ourselves in your reality, understanding, and supporting you every step of the way. You're never alone in this journey. We understand that the cornerstone of successful therapy is the connection between the client and therapist. At CCW, nurturing this bond is paramount; we deeply value and honour the relationship we build with you, ensuring it's founded on respect and compassion.
![Photo of Aminah Al-Hashimi, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/781c116e-362f-44de-a19e-895ed48a35ac/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aminah Al-Hashimi
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Richmond Hill, ON L4E (Online Only)
I am a Registered Social Worker and psychotherapist with 17 years of experience in the field of mental health, and have worked alongside children, youth, adults , and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, parent-child conflict, relationships, adjustment to life’s transitions, and trauma. I believe the individual is the expert of their own lives and sometimes may need support to navigate through their own inner struggles. Healing occurs differently for everyone, and there is never a one-size fits all approach. Allow me to help you each step of the way and to work in collaboration to improve your overall quality of life.
I am a Registered Social Worker and psychotherapist with 17 years of experience in the field of mental health, and have worked alongside children, youth, adults , and families. I specialize in anxiety, depression, parent-child conflict, relationships, adjustment to life’s transitions, and trauma. I believe the individual is the expert of their own lives and sometimes may need support to navigate through their own inner struggles. Healing occurs differently for everyone, and there is never a one-size fits all approach. Allow me to help you each step of the way and to work in collaboration to improve your overall quality of life.
![Photo of Kumsal Tekirdag Kosar, PhD, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edb29fad-f29e-4adc-80dd-e33f97a95538/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kumsal Tekirdag Kosar
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9B (Online Only)
Are you ready to establish our healing connection? Welcome! My practice focuses on the unique needs and goals of each client and I will meet you where you are at in your mental health and wellness journey. I support people with a warm, compassionate and direct style. We will work collaboratively to support you with the changes you would like to make in areas including, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, substance use/addiction, relationship with yourself and others, family conflict, parenting and work/school stress.
Are you ready to establish our healing connection? Welcome! My practice focuses on the unique needs and goals of each client and I will meet you where you are at in your mental health and wellness journey. I support people with a warm, compassionate and direct style. We will work collaboratively to support you with the changes you would like to make in areas including, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, substance use/addiction, relationship with yourself and others, family conflict, parenting and work/school stress.
![Photo of Gilan Abdelaal, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f41723c-77c4-458c-b95c-b4e15d5035c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialized in working with patients who have experience trauma and are struggling with PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, and addiction. I also specialize working with couples to help them learn to better connect and rebuild their relationships.
I specialized in working with patients who have experience trauma and are struggling with PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, and addiction. I also specialize working with couples to help them learn to better connect and rebuild their relationships.
![Photo of Ayiesha Aziz, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68565e67-12f7-4e45-b20c-7aeee426b7a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Every client is unique and have their own needs and wants. I under uniqueness of each client which is why I use the best therapeutic-approach to suit the client
Every client is unique and have their own needs and wants. I under uniqueness of each client which is why I use the best therapeutic-approach to suit the client
![Photo of Nisha Chowdhury, BA(Hon), MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3aff6190-be2a-43ff-8079-13de9379ba0c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nisha Chowdhury
Registered Psychotherapist, BA(Hon), MA, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Tiny, ON L0K (Online Only)
Are you feeling low? Do you find yourself detached from life, or sometimes very reactive and angry? You are NOT alone. In fact, in the face of overwhelming stress we often choose to run, or some try to fight and many a times freeze in the moment. It can help to know how to maneuver through it, without being crippled by it. Talking about it with a professional can help. I am here to listen and provide a safe space. If you're here means you may be searching for a change. It takes a lot of courage to choose you.
Are you feeling low? Do you find yourself detached from life, or sometimes very reactive and angry? You are NOT alone. In fact, in the face of overwhelming stress we often choose to run, or some try to fight and many a times freeze in the moment. It can help to know how to maneuver through it, without being crippled by it. Talking about it with a professional can help. I am here to listen and provide a safe space. If you're here means you may be searching for a change. It takes a lot of courage to choose you.
![Photo of Mahum Ahmed, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c5ecf8b-f2e6-4bf8-9b52-50c53ec5e72c/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is someone who is struggling with complex mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or trauma. They may feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck, and are seeking not just relief from their symptoms but also a deeper understanding of their experiences. They might be dealing with mental health that have made their daily life challenging. My clients value a therapeutic relationship that is compassionate, understanding, and tailored to their unique needs. They are likely seeking a therapist who can guide them through their healing journey using evidence-based approaches like CBT.
My ideal client is someone who is struggling with complex mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or trauma. They may feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck, and are seeking not just relief from their symptoms but also a deeper understanding of their experiences. They might be dealing with mental health that have made their daily life challenging. My clients value a therapeutic relationship that is compassionate, understanding, and tailored to their unique needs. They are likely seeking a therapist who can guide them through their healing journey using evidence-based approaches like CBT.
![Photo of Saira Munsaf Khan, RCT-C, MEd, MA Psy, EMDR, IFS, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33c74c53-63b8-4924-8f10-14e7f874f2e8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Saira Munsaf Khan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RCT-C, MEd, MA Psy, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5C (Online Only)
The complexities of life experiences can profoundly impact our whole selves, spanning emotions, identity, performance, relationships, self-care, sexuality, and numerous other facets that collectively shape our wellbeing. May it be hopes of resolving trauma, changing habits or patterns, adjusting to life transitions, or coping better, being able to set goals and attain them, or feeling comfortable in your own skin- I will accompany you in your healing and flourishing journey with compassion and a deep awareness of trauma, culture, and psychology, and support you to feel safe, seen, and secure in your inner as well as external world.
The complexities of life experiences can profoundly impact our whole selves, spanning emotions, identity, performance, relationships, self-care, sexuality, and numerous other facets that collectively shape our wellbeing. May it be hopes of resolving trauma, changing habits or patterns, adjusting to life transitions, or coping better, being able to set goals and attain them, or feeling comfortable in your own skin- I will accompany you in your healing and flourishing journey with compassion and a deep awareness of trauma, culture, and psychology, and support you to feel safe, seen, and secure in your inner as well as external world.
![Photo of Sherelle Schoburgh, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e3b4cfc-fe51-4b1d-af57-d46a33d9d5f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sherelle Schoburgh
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1M
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 relationship? 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 relationship? 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.
![Photo of Thameena Nazir, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f347d99-c258-42d0-803f-8f07e08b1746/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thameena Nazir
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4T (Online Only)
If you are considering therapy, you have already started down your path to healing and self discovery. You will find a safe and non-judgmental space with me that fosters validation, empowerment, compassion, and collective wellbeing. I strive to build a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship with you. You are the expert in your own life and I am here to understand your experiences and support you in making meaningful and lasting changes. You will also find plenty of humor with me as I believe it is good to laugh even when we are struggling.
If you are considering therapy, you have already started down your path to healing and self discovery. You will find a safe and non-judgmental space with me that fosters validation, empowerment, compassion, and collective wellbeing. I strive to build a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship with you. You are the expert in your own life and I am here to understand your experiences and support you in making meaningful and lasting changes. You will also find plenty of humor with me as I believe it is good to laugh even when we are struggling.
See more therapy options for Bowmanville
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.