Multicultural Therapists in Cary, NC

Photo of Hannah Apostolico, LCMHCA, Counselor
Hannah Apostolico
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
I utilize evidence-based approaches such as ACT, DBT, CBT and IFS, while incorporating a trauma-informed, feminist and multicultural lens.
Welcome! Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I value creating a therapeutic space in which individuals of all identities can feel safe to explore their thoughts/emotions and address challenging aspects of their life in which they may need support navigating. As a lesbian identifying clinician, I have a passion for working with folks from the LGBTQIA+ community. I also have an interest in working with those navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, family/relationship issues, life transitions/stress, and self-esteem concerns.
I utilize evidence-based approaches such as ACT, DBT, CBT and IFS, while incorporating a trauma-informed, feminist and multicultural lens.
Welcome! Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I value creating a therapeutic space in which individuals of all identities can feel safe to explore their thoughts/emotions and address challenging aspects of their life in which they may need support navigating. As a lesbian identifying clinician, I have a passion for working with folks from the LGBTQIA+ community. I also have an interest in working with those navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, family/relationship issues, life transitions/stress, and self-esteem concerns.
(984) 265-8431 View (984) 265-8431
Photo of Shannon D'Ambrosio, MS, LCMHCA, CRC, CTP
Shannon D'Ambrosio
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA, CRC, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
I pull from approaches such as ACT, CBT, and DBT with emphasis on trauma-informed care, multicultural competency, and cultural humility.
The journey to achieving wellness is unique to each individual. As your therapist, I am here to help you navigate life's complexities by harnessing your inner strengths and capabilities. I strive to create a sincere, nonjudgmental space where you can freely explore your needs, goals, and obstacles affecting your well-being. When you feel heard, accepted, and valued in the therapeutic space, transformative change and healing can truly occur. I assist individuals with diverse needs: substance use, chronic pain & disability, PTSD/trauma, depression/mood disorders, anxiety, interpersonal challenges, self-esteem, and LGBTQIA+ support.
I pull from approaches such as ACT, CBT, and DBT with emphasis on trauma-informed care, multicultural competency, and cultural humility.
The journey to achieving wellness is unique to each individual. As your therapist, I am here to help you navigate life's complexities by harnessing your inner strengths and capabilities. I strive to create a sincere, nonjudgmental space where you can freely explore your needs, goals, and obstacles affecting your well-being. When you feel heard, accepted, and valued in the therapeutic space, transformative change and healing can truly occur. I assist individuals with diverse needs: substance use, chronic pain & disability, PTSD/trauma, depression/mood disorders, anxiety, interpersonal challenges, self-esteem, and LGBTQIA+ support.
(984) 266-2934 View (984) 266-2934
Photo of Kamalpreet (Shine) Chauhan, MA, LPCA, NCC, Counselor
Kamalpreet (Shine) Chauhan
Counselor, MA, LPCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27518
I am a licensed clinical mental health therapist in North Carolina. I maintain a welcoming environment where unconditional positive regard is emphasized. I bring my unique multicultural and corporate world experiences into the counseling room to help address OCD, anxiety, depression, psychosis, life transitions, acculturation and identity issues. I am also passionate about working with couples with life challenges, relationship issues and behavior issues. I have weekend hours available. You can contact me directly at (919)-656-0220 or email at counselinghost@gmail.com for any questions.
I am a licensed clinical mental health therapist in North Carolina. I maintain a welcoming environment where unconditional positive regard is emphasized. I bring my unique multicultural and corporate world experiences into the counseling room to help address OCD, anxiety, depression, psychosis, life transitions, acculturation and identity issues. I am also passionate about working with couples with life challenges, relationship issues and behavior issues. I have weekend hours available. You can contact me directly at (919)-656-0220 or email at counselinghost@gmail.com for any questions.
(984) 314-5834 View (984) 314-5834
Photo of Kelly M King, PhD, LCMHC, NCC
Kelly M King
PhD, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511  (Online Only)
I offer individual, couple, and family counseling services informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Multicultural approaches.
Deciding to seek counseling is a courageous step. My aim is to establish a supportive relationship with you where we can work together to promote your wellbeing. We will use action-oriented techniques to practice more intentional, mindful living. I have worked with clients experiencing a range of issues and firmly believe that with self-compassion and dedicated effort we are all capable of charting new territory that is more consistent with our personal values. I strive to serve diverse clients and will work to meet you where you are, adapting counseling to suit your unique worldview and life situation.
I offer individual, couple, and family counseling services informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Multicultural approaches.
Deciding to seek counseling is a courageous step. My aim is to establish a supportive relationship with you where we can work together to promote your wellbeing. We will use action-oriented techniques to practice more intentional, mindful living. I have worked with clients experiencing a range of issues and firmly believe that with self-compassion and dedicated effort we are all capable of charting new territory that is more consistent with our personal values. I strive to serve diverse clients and will work to meet you where you are, adapting counseling to suit your unique worldview and life situation.
(252) 881-1445 View (252) 881-1445
Photo of Raychelle Cassada Lohmann, PhD, LCMHCS, ACS, BC-TMH, GCDF
Raychelle Cassada Lohmann
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor , PhD, LCMHCS, ACS, BC-TMH, GCDF
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
I am a board-certified licensed clinical mental health counselor supervisor with over 25 years of experience in clinical mental health. My career has been dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, parents, young adults, and educators, driven by a deep passion for transformative counseling. As an EMDR-certified therapist specializing in trauma-informed care, I am committed to helping others navigate and heal from their past experiences. I strive to live out my mission statement of “helping others transform their lives from the inside out,” and I am devoted to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those I work with.
I am a board-certified licensed clinical mental health counselor supervisor with over 25 years of experience in clinical mental health. My career has been dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, parents, young adults, and educators, driven by a deep passion for transformative counseling. As an EMDR-certified therapist specializing in trauma-informed care, I am committed to helping others navigate and heal from their past experiences. I strive to live out my mission statement of “helping others transform their lives from the inside out,” and I am devoted to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those I work with.
(984) 342-2692 View (984) 342-2692
Photo of Alyssa Decker, MS, LCMHCA, NCC, CRC, Counselor
Alyssa Decker
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, NCC, CRC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I graduated with my master’s degree in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I have experience working with people across the lifespan with many different mental health needs in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I primarily work with individuals 14 years old and older who may struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, obsessions and compulsions, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder, gender identity, sexuality, life transitions, and stress.
I graduated with my master’s degree in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I have experience working with people across the lifespan with many different mental health needs in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I primarily work with individuals 14 years old and older who may struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, obsessions and compulsions, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder, gender identity, sexuality, life transitions, and stress.
(919) 879-2319 View (919) 879-2319
Photo of Eb Roberts, LCMHC, BC-TMH, JD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eb Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, BC-TMH, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy meeting clients right where they are and partnering with them to consider and predict the natural consequences which come to bear based on choices. My approach to therapy integrates mindfulness with solution-focused and reality-based approaches. I am EMDR trained as well and we can incorporate this as needed. Often we are driven into counseling either by an internal or external demand which no longer allows us to exist as we are. Counseling is about making a choice to manage life differently, or not--and not making a choice, is nevertheless still a choice.
I enjoy meeting clients right where they are and partnering with them to consider and predict the natural consequences which come to bear based on choices. My approach to therapy integrates mindfulness with solution-focused and reality-based approaches. I am EMDR trained as well and we can incorporate this as needed. Often we are driven into counseling either by an internal or external demand which no longer allows us to exist as we are. Counseling is about making a choice to manage life differently, or not--and not making a choice, is nevertheless still a choice.
(919) 694-6052 View (919) 694-6052
Photo of Alex Zima, MS Ed, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Alex Zima
Counselor, MS Ed, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513
In times of great vulnerability, mind-body awareness, self-compassion and insight guide the way to healing, self-empowerment and renewed purpose. We all carry these capacities within. My approach combines evidence-based clinical, holistic and mindfulness-based methodologies grounded in the leading-edge neuroscience of emotional wellbeing and personal growth. I am LGBTQ+ -affirming and committed to serving clients that reflect diversity in racial and cultural identity, gender identity, sexual orientation and stage of life.
In times of great vulnerability, mind-body awareness, self-compassion and insight guide the way to healing, self-empowerment and renewed purpose. We all carry these capacities within. My approach combines evidence-based clinical, holistic and mindfulness-based methodologies grounded in the leading-edge neuroscience of emotional wellbeing and personal growth. I am LGBTQ+ -affirming and committed to serving clients that reflect diversity in racial and cultural identity, gender identity, sexual orientation and stage of life.
(984) 203-9414 View (984) 203-9414
Photo of Bailey Toma Onuoha, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Bailey Toma Onuoha
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513
Life can be confusing and painful at times. Unexpected situations can leave us barely managing instead of thriving. I often think of the quote from the show Sweet Magnolias when one of the main characters says, "Life is insane, I am holding it together by ducktape and happy thoughts and I am near out of both." In my own experience, seeking therapy can bring insight and healing for all different people and situations, it just takes one step of courage to decide to begin.
Life can be confusing and painful at times. Unexpected situations can leave us barely managing instead of thriving. I often think of the quote from the show Sweet Magnolias when one of the main characters says, "Life is insane, I am holding it together by ducktape and happy thoughts and I am near out of both." In my own experience, seeking therapy can bring insight and healing for all different people and situations, it just takes one step of courage to decide to begin.
(984) 217-5446 View (984) 217-5446
Photo of Keisha Bryan, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keisha Bryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
I specialize in working with adults- both individuals and couples, ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. I really enjoy partnering with people who have a strong desire to work on themselves, seeking to understand and overcome emotional pain and past traumas. I love being a supportive therapist who listens, guides, and empowers people to do their healing work. For individuals, the goal is to heal deeply, ensuring past traumas no longer dictate future behaviors. Couples seek healthier relationships, enhanced communication, and deeper intimacy. Together, we strive for lasting change and profound growth.
I specialize in working with adults- both individuals and couples, ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing. I really enjoy partnering with people who have a strong desire to work on themselves, seeking to understand and overcome emotional pain and past traumas. I love being a supportive therapist who listens, guides, and empowers people to do their healing work. For individuals, the goal is to heal deeply, ensuring past traumas no longer dictate future behaviors. Couples seek healthier relationships, enhanced communication, and deeper intimacy. Together, we strive for lasting change and profound growth.
(984) 538-7636 View (984) 538-7636
Photo of Jasmine Elliott, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Jasmine Elliott
MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
Have you been struggling to get out of bed each morning, constantly fighting the urge to stay in bed all day? Has your job or school performance been affected, or maybe even your relationships with your friends, family, or significant other? Maybe you’ve lost interest in activities that once brought you joy, and even the simplest of tasks seem impossible to get done. YOU deserve to be happy again, to smile and laugh again, to feel like yourself again. Although all hope might appear to be lost right now, don't give up, because you are NOT alone.
Have you been struggling to get out of bed each morning, constantly fighting the urge to stay in bed all day? Has your job or school performance been affected, or maybe even your relationships with your friends, family, or significant other? Maybe you’ve lost interest in activities that once brought you joy, and even the simplest of tasks seem impossible to get done. YOU deserve to be happy again, to smile and laugh again, to feel like yourself again. Although all hope might appear to be lost right now, don't give up, because you are NOT alone.
(919) 551-7325 View (919) 551-7325
Photo of Bianca Glaze Smith, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bianca Glaze Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511
My passion is helping people become and maintain the best versions of themselves. I achieve this by creating a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for all clients. My goal is to assist you in developing and utilizing coping skills, while working toward your personal goals, and establishing and maintaining self-care regiments and mental health.
My passion is helping people become and maintain the best versions of themselves. I achieve this by creating a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for all clients. My goal is to assist you in developing and utilizing coping skills, while working toward your personal goals, and establishing and maintaining self-care regiments and mental health.
(984) 205-9361 View (984) 205-9361
Photo of Rachel Mathew, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Mathew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
Grief is often associated with the death of a loved one, a dear friend or a beloved pet, but the experience of grief extends far beyond that singular event. It encompasses a wide range of losses that can profoundly impact an individual's emotional, psychological, and even physical state. Whether it is the loss of a dream of ever being a parent, independence due to a chronic illness, a job, or even a homeland, grief manifests whenever there is a significant loss that changes one’s sense of self or the world around them. These losses might not always be visible or understood by others, making them all the more challenging to navigate.
Grief is often associated with the death of a loved one, a dear friend or a beloved pet, but the experience of grief extends far beyond that singular event. It encompasses a wide range of losses that can profoundly impact an individual's emotional, psychological, and even physical state. Whether it is the loss of a dream of ever being a parent, independence due to a chronic illness, a job, or even a homeland, grief manifests whenever there is a significant loss that changes one’s sense of self or the world around them. These losses might not always be visible or understood by others, making them all the more challenging to navigate.
(919) 348-9593 View (919) 348-9593
Photo of Catalina Ramos Gomez, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catalina Ramos Gomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual therapist specializing in working with young adults who have experienced trauma.  I accept clients as they are, and focus on the goals most important to them.  My therapeutic approach is eclectic, flexible and adaptable.  I am EMDR trained.  Other modalities my clients often find helpful are Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).  Other areas of interest include grief, anxiety, adjustment to difficult life transitions, coping skills, and anger management.
I am a bilingual therapist specializing in working with young adults who have experienced trauma.  I accept clients as they are, and focus on the goals most important to them.  My therapeutic approach is eclectic, flexible and adaptable.  I am EMDR trained.  Other modalities my clients often find helpful are Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).  Other areas of interest include grief, anxiety, adjustment to difficult life transitions, coping skills, and anger management.
(984) 223-9580 x6 View (984) 223-9580 x6
Photo of Dr. Owen T. Guess, Ph D, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Owen T. Guess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Ph D, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27518
Dr. Owen Guess was born and raised in Greensboro, NC. Owen received his bachelor’s of Social Work degree from North Carolina A&T State University in 2010. Upon receiving his degree he pursued his Masters of Social Work Degree from Clark Atlanta University in 2011. Following his time in Atlanta, Owen spent time working as an outpatient therapist for six years. During his time he worked with pre-teens, adolescents, and adults. While working with as an outpatient therapist Owen desired more information to best serve those in need of assistance.
Dr. Owen Guess was born and raised in Greensboro, NC. Owen received his bachelor’s of Social Work degree from North Carolina A&T State University in 2010. Upon receiving his degree he pursued his Masters of Social Work Degree from Clark Atlanta University in 2011. Following his time in Atlanta, Owen spent time working as an outpatient therapist for six years. During his time he worked with pre-teens, adolescents, and adults. While working with as an outpatient therapist Owen desired more information to best serve those in need of assistance.
(336) 891-3793 View (336) 891-3793
Photo of Tameka L McFarland, MS, LMFT, CPLC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tameka L McFarland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CPLC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
My name is Tameka McFarland. I treat individuals, couples who are dating, planning to get married, currently married, or are considering divorce. I will treat emotional concerns that are affecting intimacy between a client and their partner. I provide support to families who have concerns about parenting. I will see any client ages 18 and up of all ethnicities and sexual orientations. My ideal client would be a couple or family, however, when seeing individuals, I encourage that the client bring another support person that they trust to their sessions. I also provide life coaching services. Telehealth services are also offered.
My name is Tameka McFarland. I treat individuals, couples who are dating, planning to get married, currently married, or are considering divorce. I will treat emotional concerns that are affecting intimacy between a client and their partner. I provide support to families who have concerns about parenting. I will see any client ages 18 and up of all ethnicities and sexual orientations. My ideal client would be a couple or family, however, when seeing individuals, I encourage that the client bring another support person that they trust to their sessions. I also provide life coaching services. Telehealth services are also offered.
(919) 504-5030 View (919) 504-5030
Photo of Chiodera Drayton-Smith, LCSWA, JD, CSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chiodera Drayton-Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, JD, CSSW
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513  (Online Only)
I work with children, teens, and adults experiencing life’s challenges, primarily trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and navigating ADHD and autism. While these are my primary focuses, these are not the only topics and concerns I work with. I have a strong history of working with individuals and their families through a variety of difficulties such as divorce, separation, financial struggles, infidelity, intimate partner violence, child custody disputes, and more. If you are hoping to work with me and don't see the topic mentioned here, you can still reach out. My goal is always to help.
I work with children, teens, and adults experiencing life’s challenges, primarily trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and navigating ADHD and autism. While these are my primary focuses, these are not the only topics and concerns I work with. I have a strong history of working with individuals and their families through a variety of difficulties such as divorce, separation, financial struggles, infidelity, intimate partner violence, child custody disputes, and more. If you are hoping to work with me and don't see the topic mentioned here, you can still reach out. My goal is always to help.
(984) 468-8025 View (984) 468-8025
Photo of Meena Statz, CRC, LCMHC, LPC, LPCC
Meena Statz
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, CRC, LCMHC, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with South Asian and African American women (ages 25-50) living in NC, WI, and MN who are ready to address and treat anxiety, depression, OCD, or trauma. My main areas of interest are the effects of the immigrant experience and biculturalism on mental health and wellness. I also am well versed in queer, transgender, and non-binary needs in treatment. Therapy with me provides clients with a culturally sensitive experience, as I work with clients closely to create a practice that incorporates evidence based practices in a non-oppressive environment.
I work with South Asian and African American women (ages 25-50) living in NC, WI, and MN who are ready to address and treat anxiety, depression, OCD, or trauma. My main areas of interest are the effects of the immigrant experience and biculturalism on mental health and wellness. I also am well versed in queer, transgender, and non-binary needs in treatment. Therapy with me provides clients with a culturally sensitive experience, as I work with clients closely to create a practice that incorporates evidence based practices in a non-oppressive environment.
(262) 383-4589 View (262) 383-4589
Photo of Marisol Pérez, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisol Pérez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27518  (Online Only)
Have you tried all the things and continue to have no relief? Are you looking for something different than traditional talk therapy? Have you struggled to find a therapist that's a good fit? The search for support can be exhausting. Finding the therapist that's a good fit for you is key. I provide a collaborative, warm, and non-judgmental environment where you can feel safe and heard. If you're ready to be witnessed and supported, while on your journey to find peace, you've come to the right place. I offer an inclusive, holistic, trauma-centered, and anti-oppressive healing space. My psychotherapy practice is conveniently online.
Have you tried all the things and continue to have no relief? Are you looking for something different than traditional talk therapy? Have you struggled to find a therapist that's a good fit? The search for support can be exhausting. Finding the therapist that's a good fit for you is key. I provide a collaborative, warm, and non-judgmental environment where you can feel safe and heard. If you're ready to be witnessed and supported, while on your journey to find peace, you've come to the right place. I offer an inclusive, holistic, trauma-centered, and anti-oppressive healing space. My psychotherapy practice is conveniently online.
(919) 899-4901 View (919) 899-4901
Photo of Alysa Calestini, MA , LCMHCA, NCC
Alysa Calestini
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA , LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
Hello! It can be really hard to be human- especially in our current world. I commend you for seeking support and I'm glad that you are here. Together, we can explore what has been showing up for you and find a path to greater awareness, meaning, and empowerment. It is my desire to create a safe environment for any and all identities, where you can share your story and experiences, process life transitions, and find support. My approach is compassionate and collaborative. I believe in the power of authentic human connection and a non-judgmental space to allow for you to access growth.
Hello! It can be really hard to be human- especially in our current world. I commend you for seeking support and I'm glad that you are here. Together, we can explore what has been showing up for you and find a path to greater awareness, meaning, and empowerment. It is my desire to create a safe environment for any and all identities, where you can share your story and experiences, process life transitions, and find support. My approach is compassionate and collaborative. I believe in the power of authentic human connection and a non-judgmental space to allow for you to access growth.
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Multicultural Therapists

What type of therapy is multicultural therapy?

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

What can I expect from multicultural therapy?

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

Can multicultural therapy help treat trauma?

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

What are the benefits of seeing a multicultural therapist?

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