Muslim Therapists in Columbia, MD
![Photo of Fatima Khan, MS, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3612ce-9670-455a-86df-086a21c49bd2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Fatima Khan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed or stuck, like no one truly understands you? If your values and beliefs are making it tough to find the support you need, you're not alone. Your background is an important part of who you, and you need a therapist who gets that. I specialize in understanding the unique challenges that South Asian and American Muslim communities encounter. Together, let's navigate life's obstacles in a safe and nurturing environment, allowing you to both be your authentic self and develop the skills you need to achieve your goals.
Do you feel overwhelmed or stuck, like no one truly understands you? If your values and beliefs are making it tough to find the support you need, you're not alone. Your background is an important part of who you, and you need a therapist who gets that. I specialize in understanding the unique challenges that South Asian and American Muslim communities encounter. Together, let's navigate life's obstacles in a safe and nurturing environment, allowing you to both be your authentic self and develop the skills you need to achieve your goals.
![Photo of Heba Youssef, MDiv, MS, LGPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/185c1ace-71db-490e-85c4-a06a9826fb86/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heba Youssef
Counselor, MDiv, MS, LGPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, ahlan wa sahlan, kumustaka and welcome! I'm Heba (heb-uh) (she/her/هي), an Arab Egyptian-Filipina mental health therapist and the founder of Calamansi Counseling. I provide culturally integrative & anti-oppressive therapy in the DMV area and internationally to third culture kids, specializing in the unique experiences of multicultural individuals and couples, cultural hybrids, LGBTQ+ Muslims, 1st & 2nd generation adults with immigrant parents, and individuals with hyphenated identities. Waitlist signup is available at www.calamansicounseling.com/getstarted
Hello, ahlan wa sahlan, kumustaka and welcome! I'm Heba (heb-uh) (she/her/هي), an Arab Egyptian-Filipina mental health therapist and the founder of Calamansi Counseling. I provide culturally integrative & anti-oppressive therapy in the DMV area and internationally to third culture kids, specializing in the unique experiences of multicultural individuals and couples, cultural hybrids, LGBTQ+ Muslims, 1st & 2nd generation adults with immigrant parents, and individuals with hyphenated identities. Waitlist signup is available at www.calamansicounseling.com/getstarted
![Photo of Sheela Reddy, MS, EdD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48794436-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
" If are looking for connection, caring, safe insight and expertise to transform you inside out holistically I am a good fit for you". I work with adults, families and adolescents. As a Holisitc Psychologist and Coach after 25 years of experience I have many tools like CBT, EMDR, yoga, mindfulness, divorce & executive coaching and more to bring to you. I specialize in working with anxiety, trauma, depression, marriage family & divorce, anger, abuse issues and more. Call or email me. My aim is to help you Recover now and Increase your Self-acceptance, Coping Strategies and hence live a Happier, Healthier lifestyle.
" If are looking for connection, caring, safe insight and expertise to transform you inside out holistically I am a good fit for you". I work with adults, families and adolescents. As a Holisitc Psychologist and Coach after 25 years of experience I have many tools like CBT, EMDR, yoga, mindfulness, divorce & executive coaching and more to bring to you. I specialize in working with anxiety, trauma, depression, marriage family & divorce, anger, abuse issues and more. Call or email me. My aim is to help you Recover now and Increase your Self-acceptance, Coping Strategies and hence live a Happier, Healthier lifestyle.
![Photo of Najwa Awad, LCSW-C, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4190ad66-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Najwa Awad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21046 (Online Only)
I specialize in the clinical treatment of women, their children and families. Women are unique from any other clinical group and deserve to get individualized services tailored to meet their needs. My goal is to empower women, help alleviate their symptoms and address their personal goals for wellness. It is of utmost importance that my clients feel safe, respected and supported.
I specialize in the clinical treatment of women, their children and families. Women are unique from any other clinical group and deserve to get individualized services tailored to meet their needs. My goal is to empower women, help alleviate their symptoms and address their personal goals for wellness. It is of utmost importance that my clients feel safe, respected and supported.
![Photo of Franklin Lartey - Now Accepting Clients For Pro Bono Counseling!, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9a58c8d-6ae0-4746-8235-bf91bc709bda/1/320x400.png)
Now Accepting Clients For Pro Bono Counseling!
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself struggling with anxious thoughts? Are the trials of everyday life trapping you in a cycle of depression? Maybe you are having a hard time processing a traumatic event that has happened to you? You are not alone, and you do not have to continue struggling. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive atmosphere that allows you to express yourself openly and freely. As a client of mine, I will help you work through whatever it is you are currently experiencing and help you work towards a happier tomorrow.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxious thoughts? Are the trials of everyday life trapping you in a cycle of depression? Maybe you are having a hard time processing a traumatic event that has happened to you? You are not alone, and you do not have to continue struggling. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive atmosphere that allows you to express yourself openly and freely. As a client of mine, I will help you work through whatever it is you are currently experiencing and help you work towards a happier tomorrow.
![Photo of Varghese Joseph, LCSW-C, ERYT300, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/180c636c-df5d-4bad-9c62-b37808acec70/2/320x400.jpeg)
Varghese Joseph
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, ERYT300
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with attention and focus? Feeling low energy and have you lost interest in activities that you used to enjoy? Do you feel like something is happening within you that is holding you back from being your true self? Is this affecting your relationship with your family, friends or career? Do you feel like you can’t continue like this anymore and want to change? Yes, the change will happen. You made the right decision to seek help. In these difficult situations the best choice is to find a person who is trained in helping and who can establish a professional relationship with you to help.
Are you struggling with attention and focus? Feeling low energy and have you lost interest in activities that you used to enjoy? Do you feel like something is happening within you that is holding you back from being your true self? Is this affecting your relationship with your family, friends or career? Do you feel like you can’t continue like this anymore and want to change? Yes, the change will happen. You made the right decision to seek help. In these difficult situations the best choice is to find a person who is trained in helping and who can establish a professional relationship with you to help.
![Photo of Doha Chibani, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d12ce1e3-c152-44e2-ba3e-429e1ee8ed8c/3/320x400.png)
Doha Chibani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045 (Online Only)
As your counselor my goal is to serve as your guide while you navigate through life's transitions. My goal is to guide you unpack the barriers that hinder you from reaching your potential. I tailor treatment to meet your needs and will work collaboratively with you to move forward. I have experience working with clients from all backgrounds and experiences and I specialize in working with the LGB, Trans and Non binary community, racial and ethnic minority identity exploration. I have experience helping heal the trauma experienced by refugees, asylees and immigrants, and from childhood abuse.
As your counselor my goal is to serve as your guide while you navigate through life's transitions. My goal is to guide you unpack the barriers that hinder you from reaching your potential. I tailor treatment to meet your needs and will work collaboratively with you to move forward. I have experience working with clients from all backgrounds and experiences and I specialize in working with the LGB, Trans and Non binary community, racial and ethnic minority identity exploration. I have experience helping heal the trauma experienced by refugees, asylees and immigrants, and from childhood abuse.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Maryam Fakhruddin, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb4c252e-3b29-4a5b-b1fb-6d32a158e527/2/320x400.jpeg)
I recently expanded my expertise to include Islamic psychotherapy by completing a diploma at the Cambridge Muslim College and obtaining certificates in Traditional Islamically Integrated Psychotherapy (TIIP) through the Khalil Center.
My passion lies in helping clients manage conditions such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and PTSD. I use a range of therapeutic approaches, including somatic therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, compassion-focused therapy, and EMDR. My practice is grounded in a client-centered, anti-oppressive lens, ensuring a safe and inclusive space.
I recently expanded my expertise to include Islamic psychotherapy by completing a diploma at the Cambridge Muslim College and obtaining certificates in Traditional Islamically Integrated Psychotherapy (TIIP) through the Khalil Center.
My passion lies in helping clients manage conditions such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and PTSD. I use a range of therapeutic approaches, including somatic therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, compassion-focused therapy, and EMDR. My practice is grounded in a client-centered, anti-oppressive lens, ensuring a safe and inclusive space.
![Photo of Farah Shaikh, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a98ed00-3722-4d42-87c9-39c217f0f9ca/1/320x400.png)
Farah Shaikh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228 (Online Only)
As a first generation Muslim woman, I bring a unique perspective to the table and will support you on your path to healing and empowerment.
Counseling is the beginning of a journey towards healing and a future you deserve. With nearly twenty years of experience as a licensed therapist, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can openly share your feelings, thoughts, and challenges. My aim is to provide a compassionate environment along with practical advice and effective strategies as we navigate the path to your well-being. You have more courage than you know and you have more growing left to do. All it takes is one step. Let's start this journey today.
As a first generation Muslim woman, I bring a unique perspective to the table and will support you on your path to healing and empowerment.
Counseling is the beginning of a journey towards healing and a future you deserve. With nearly twenty years of experience as a licensed therapist, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can openly share your feelings, thoughts, and challenges. My aim is to provide a compassionate environment along with practical advice and effective strategies as we navigate the path to your well-being. You have more courage than you know and you have more growing left to do. All it takes is one step. Let's start this journey today.
![Photo of Dalia Al-Mansy, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b20de7c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Lumos Counseling & Wellness Center we specialize in providing mental health therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults to address a wide variety of mental health and emotional issues. We believe that every person can benefit from mental health therapy every now and then to talk about issues and address some of life's problems.
At Lumos Counseling & Wellness Center we specialize in providing mental health therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults to address a wide variety of mental health and emotional issues. We believe that every person can benefit from mental health therapy every now and then to talk about issues and address some of life's problems.
![Photo of Soheyla Bolouri, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41c92896-2901-45bb-8fb8-5e9028b3ac11/6/320x400.jpeg)
Soheyla Bolouri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042 (Online Only)
I’m a licensed clinical social worker. I’m able to provide virtual therapy services across the states of Maryland and Virginia. I’m fluent in both Farsi (Persian) and English and competent in Middle Eastern culture, as well as the mainstream culture.
I’m a licensed clinical social worker. I’m able to provide virtual therapy services across the states of Maryland and Virginia. I’m fluent in both Farsi (Persian) and English and competent in Middle Eastern culture, as well as the mainstream culture.
![Photo of Sundus Nada, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f210a1e9-1e16-440f-a7e9-e5fdca0aece5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sundus Nada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043 (Online Only)
Are you feeling down lately? Are you looking to make a change in your life but don’t have the motivation to? I am here to meet you where you are and work with you to identify what goals and changes you want to make in your life.
Are you feeling down lately? Are you looking to make a change in your life but don’t have the motivation to? I am here to meet you where you are and work with you to identify what goals and changes you want to make in your life.
![Photo of Olivia L Baylor - Life Revisions Counseling, LLC, LCPC, NCC, BC-TMH](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddf6c455-8b48-43dc-96d3-9b183f927911/1/320x400.png)
Life Revisions Counseling, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21042 (Online Only)
You have just taken the first step in taking care of yourself. Now let's work together to help you meet your goals. Do you struggle with low self-esteem and anxiety? Has it been overwhelming going to work and school? Are you having problems in your marriage or relationship? Do you ever feel like you're not good enough for others or can't rely on yourself without questioning things? Need immigration evaluations so that you or a loved one can stay in the US? Let's work together to revise your life! Working on your anger and looking for anger management courses? We love helping people achieve satisfaction in their lives.
You have just taken the first step in taking care of yourself. Now let's work together to help you meet your goals. Do you struggle with low self-esteem and anxiety? Has it been overwhelming going to work and school? Are you having problems in your marriage or relationship? Do you ever feel like you're not good enough for others or can't rely on yourself without questioning things? Need immigration evaluations so that you or a loved one can stay in the US? Let's work together to revise your life! Working on your anger and looking for anger management courses? We love helping people achieve satisfaction in their lives.
![Photo of Razia Kosi, EdD, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80213346-e3cd-4b2c-826f-94f78f2879cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Razia Kosi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21043 (Online Only)
As a woman of color, my clients have appreciated the cultural humility I bring my to my work to disrupt therapy solely based on Western models. I incorporate perspectives from the clients' cultural and spiritual beliefs. Supporting people through life transitions has been a focus with many clients ranging from college, marriage, divorce, child rearing to career changes. On a personal note, I am a 1.5 generation immigrant who came to this country as a young child, with both personal and professional experience with areas of familial conflict and healing. I will start with where you are and focus on the goals you seek in therapy.
As a woman of color, my clients have appreciated the cultural humility I bring my to my work to disrupt therapy solely based on Western models. I incorporate perspectives from the clients' cultural and spiritual beliefs. Supporting people through life transitions has been a focus with many clients ranging from college, marriage, divorce, child rearing to career changes. On a personal note, I am a 1.5 generation immigrant who came to this country as a young child, with both personal and professional experience with areas of familial conflict and healing. I will start with where you are and focus on the goals you seek in therapy.
![Photo of Lauren Jackson, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9993edcb-087b-4d09-9997-dd9babf0d5f7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Jackson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burtonsville, MD 20866 (Online Only)
We'll explore how to identify and reframe negative thoughts, regulate mood, improve communication, learn and implement new behaviors . We'll also explore how your childhood experiences might impact and inform your current ability to form meaningful bonds. I work with create space for BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ (diverse) clients to be candid about their experiences. We identify cognitive, emotional and behavioral distress related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, roles an expectations, discrimination or privilege, shame, transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma and/or abuse, racial, ethic and cultural identity, and relationships.
We'll explore how to identify and reframe negative thoughts, regulate mood, improve communication, learn and implement new behaviors . We'll also explore how your childhood experiences might impact and inform your current ability to form meaningful bonds. I work with create space for BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ (diverse) clients to be candid about their experiences. We identify cognitive, emotional and behavioral distress related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, roles an expectations, discrimination or privilege, shame, transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma and/or abuse, racial, ethic and cultural identity, and relationships.
![Photo of Fadea Husain, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d71d549-ad4a-411f-b613-f17f5b24cb68/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fadea Husain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hyattsville, MD 20783 (Online Only)
I am clinician specializing in women's mental health, I am dedicated to addressing a range of challenges including depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, past trauma, and relationship difficulties. As a woman with varied life experiences common to many women, I bring a deep empathy and understanding to my practice. I am passionate about empowering and supporting women to achieve their fullest potential. By providing compassionate and attentive listening, coupled with expertise in mental and emotional health, I strive to guide my clients towards inner peace and happiness.
I am clinician specializing in women's mental health, I am dedicated to addressing a range of challenges including depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, past trauma, and relationship difficulties. As a woman with varied life experiences common to many women, I bring a deep empathy and understanding to my practice. I am passionate about empowering and supporting women to achieve their fullest potential. By providing compassionate and attentive listening, coupled with expertise in mental and emotional health, I strive to guide my clients towards inner peace and happiness.
![Photo of Franklin Lartey - Accepting New Clients! Start Your Healing Journey , Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0839e50-3d62-4cf6-b1c1-5ff85daa5bd9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients! Start Your Healing Journey
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Laurel, MD 20707 (Online Only)
Navigating life’s obstacles can be overwhelming. I believe that therapy is a safe place to grow, learn and achieve shared goals using an eclectic mix of modalities to meet each of your unique needs. I can help you work through difficult personal issues, such as low self-esteem, stress, anxiety, trauma, and depression. 24/7 Receptionists available to have you scheduled right away.
Navigating life’s obstacles can be overwhelming. I believe that therapy is a safe place to grow, learn and achieve shared goals using an eclectic mix of modalities to meet each of your unique needs. I can help you work through difficult personal issues, such as low self-esteem, stress, anxiety, trauma, and depression. 24/7 Receptionists available to have you scheduled right away.
![Photo of Franklin Lartey - It's Time to Heal! Schedule an Appointment Today!](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db18b1ec-6380-4523-9046-28037591d919/1/320x400.jpeg)
It's Time to Heal! Schedule an Appointment Today!
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Laurel, MD 20707 (Online Only)
Are you going through a stage in your life where you feel lost, confused, or conflicted? Is your mental health making you feel like you’re disconnected with your peers, friends, co-worker’s, or even with yourself? Are you feeling a lack of motivation, or understanding of your true purpose? Do you struggle with functioning socially, mentally or emotionally? With my specialization in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, I frequently work with my clients on improving their mental health by helping them to develop coping mechanisms to overcome any current mental health struggle
Are you going through a stage in your life where you feel lost, confused, or conflicted? Is your mental health making you feel like you’re disconnected with your peers, friends, co-worker’s, or even with yourself? Are you feeling a lack of motivation, or understanding of your true purpose? Do you struggle with functioning socially, mentally or emotionally? With my specialization in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, I frequently work with my clients on improving their mental health by helping them to develop coping mechanisms to overcome any current mental health struggle
![Photo of Franklin Lartey - Accepting Clients! Children, Adults, Psych Meds!, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/075ee396-d740-4fe4-80d8-e1005f47cad3/2/320x400.png)
Accepting Clients! Children, Adults, Psych Meds!
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Laurel, MD 20707 (Online Only)
During difficult moments in life, it can be helpful to have adequate support to navigate through any hurdles you are facing. As a therapist, I provide a non-judgmental, safe and confidential space to all of my clients so that they truly feel validated. As a client of mine, I will meet you wherever you are with empathy, compassion, and acceptance. I can help you work through difficult personal issues, such as low self-esteem, stress, anxiety, trauma, and depression. 24/7 receptionists are available to have you scheduled right away.
During difficult moments in life, it can be helpful to have adequate support to navigate through any hurdles you are facing. As a therapist, I provide a non-judgmental, safe and confidential space to all of my clients so that they truly feel validated. As a client of mine, I will meet you wherever you are with empathy, compassion, and acceptance. I can help you work through difficult personal issues, such as low self-esteem, stress, anxiety, trauma, and depression. 24/7 receptionists are available to have you scheduled right away.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Aayesha Aijaz, LGPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5696087b-16ef-4d9b-8fab-1a879f7157a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aayesha Aijaz, LGPC, NCC is a dedicated first-generation South Asian Muslim therapist committed to supporting individuals on their healing journeys. Her understanding of the immigrant community’s stigmatized response to mental health has shaped her counseling approach, allowing her to create a safe and compassionate space for clients to explore their most vulnerable thoughts and feelings. She specializes in working with adults who have either experienced therapy before or are open to exploring deep inner healing work. In her therapeutic approach, Aayesha utilizes a person-centered, culturally sensitive, and trauma-informed approach
Aayesha Aijaz, LGPC, NCC is a dedicated first-generation South Asian Muslim therapist committed to supporting individuals on their healing journeys. Her understanding of the immigrant community’s stigmatized response to mental health has shaped her counseling approach, allowing her to create a safe and compassionate space for clients to explore their most vulnerable thoughts and feelings. She specializes in working with adults who have either experienced therapy before or are open to exploring deep inner healing work. In her therapeutic approach, Aayesha utilizes a person-centered, culturally sensitive, and trauma-informed approach
See more therapy options for Columbia
Nearby Muslim Therapists Searches for Columbia
See More Muslim TherapistsMuslim Therapists
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 recognize 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.