Culturally Sensitive Therapists in Louisburg, NC

Photo of Dr. Nikki King, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Nikki King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Louisburg, NC 27549
At Mind & Mane, we are dedicated to helping others navigate through life's challenges while finding solutions and being a support while learning from life experiences and sometimes setbacks. We desire to support, teach, and empower others while allowing us to transform your life.
At Mind & Mane, we are dedicated to helping others navigate through life's challenges while finding solutions and being a support while learning from life experiences and sometimes setbacks. We desire to support, teach, and empower others while allowing us to transform your life.
(919) 670-5491 View (919) 670-5491
Photo of Almice M Gill, LCASA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Almice M Gill
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCASA
Verified Verified
Louisburg, NC 27549
Are you finding it hard to determine how to cope during these difficult times? Do you find yourself easily frustrated and in rage? I am here to let you know there is HOPE. I am dedicated to helping others. I specialize in working with youth and adults. I provide outpatient therapy, assessments, teach coping mechanisms, substance abuse counseling, and more. Working in the clinical field of psychology has allowed me to service those in crisis and educate productive ways to cope. It is my passion to help mental health patients live better lives, and cope with emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues.
Are you finding it hard to determine how to cope during these difficult times? Do you find yourself easily frustrated and in rage? I am here to let you know there is HOPE. I am dedicated to helping others. I specialize in working with youth and adults. I provide outpatient therapy, assessments, teach coping mechanisms, substance abuse counseling, and more. Working in the clinical field of psychology has allowed me to service those in crisis and educate productive ways to cope. It is my passion to help mental health patients live better lives, and cope with emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues.
(919) 496-7781 View (919) 496-7781
Photo of Elana Stephens, LCSWA
Elana Stephens
LCSW Associate, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisburg, NC 27549  (Online Only)
I'm currently accepting new client appointments and have immediate availability. Do you or someone you know struggle with pushing away big emotions? Many people try to avoid painful feelings and thoughts. Avoiding and ignoring painful emotions feels good at the moment and can help you survive trauma. However, if you continue to ignore emotional pain, your body can store that pain. As a result, you may feel numb or easily overwhelmed. Avoidance can become addictive, diminish your tolerance, and can lead to you choosing harmful methods to cope with stressors.
I'm currently accepting new client appointments and have immediate availability. Do you or someone you know struggle with pushing away big emotions? Many people try to avoid painful feelings and thoughts. Avoiding and ignoring painful emotions feels good at the moment and can help you survive trauma. However, if you continue to ignore emotional pain, your body can store that pain. As a result, you may feel numb or easily overwhelmed. Avoidance can become addictive, diminish your tolerance, and can lead to you choosing harmful methods to cope with stressors.
(336) 530-5723 View (336) 530-5723
Photo of Frank Paul Green - Charis Wellness Counseling Center (Foundation), DMin, MA, LMFT
Charis Wellness Counseling Center (Foundation)
DMin, MA, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Louisburg, NC 27549
Charis Foundation has two counseling therapeutic opportunities: 1.) Charis Counseling Wellness Center, a out patient service, is dedicated to providing non-judgmental treatment for Adults, Adolescents, Children, individuals, couples, and families. We are committed to non-biased assessment and treatment our clients, with respect to their cultural, ethnic, sexual, and religious difference, in an effort to gain insight, promote wellness and encourage healing and growth. 2.) Serenity Grace Farm is dedicated to equine therapy, Therapeutic Horseback Riding, and other horse riding activities. This works towards enhancing and improving physical, emotional, social, cognitive, behavioral and educational skills. Trail rides, party opportunities, special events for focus groups such as service groups, churches, civic organizations, and special needs are also part of the repertoire of therapeutic experiences available.
Charis Foundation has two counseling therapeutic opportunities: 1.) Charis Counseling Wellness Center, a out patient service, is dedicated to providing non-judgmental treatment for Adults, Adolescents, Children, individuals, couples, and families. We are committed to non-biased assessment and treatment our clients, with respect to their cultural, ethnic, sexual, and religious difference, in an effort to gain insight, promote wellness and encourage healing and growth. 2.) Serenity Grace Farm is dedicated to equine therapy, Therapeutic Horseback Riding, and other horse riding activities. This works towards enhancing and improving physical, emotional, social, cognitive, behavioral and educational skills. Trail rides, party opportunities, special events for focus groups such as service groups, churches, civic organizations, and special needs are also part of the repertoire of therapeutic experiences available.
(919) 587-8121 View (919) 587-8121

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Blaise Harris - Blaise Harris, LCMHC, LCASA
Blaise Harris
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bunn, NC 27508
Waitlist for new clients
You good? I ask because I can see that there's a pain in your eyes that you're trying so hard to disguise like everything is okay. I'm asking because I'm genuinely concerned about how you're doing. I know that we often think that people don't care about how we are but me, I do care. So, tell me, are you good? You don't have to hold onto all of that hurt, that anger, that anxiety, that stress, that pressure. You don't have to be the hero. You don't have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders just so you can be criticized for not carrying a bigger boulder.
You good? I ask because I can see that there's a pain in your eyes that you're trying so hard to disguise like everything is okay. I'm asking because I'm genuinely concerned about how you're doing. I know that we often think that people don't care about how we are but me, I do care. So, tell me, are you good? You don't have to hold onto all of that hurt, that anger, that anxiety, that stress, that pressure. You don't have to be the hero. You don't have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders just so you can be criticized for not carrying a bigger boulder.
(919) 739-3117 View (919) 739-3117

Online Therapists

Photo of Justin Jaesung Lee, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justin Jaesung Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! My name is Justin and I want to personally acknowledge your strength, courage, and determination for taking this next step in seeking help. I believe that exploring therapy demonstrates your willingness to better understand yourself, your relationships, and the world around you. I am passionate about empowering people from all backgrounds through culturally sensitive treatment and being actively present throughout your enriching and powerful journey of healing and growth. As individuals face challenges that are unique to them, I engage them with a therapeutic approach that is both personalized and dynamic.
Hi! My name is Justin and I want to personally acknowledge your strength, courage, and determination for taking this next step in seeking help. I believe that exploring therapy demonstrates your willingness to better understand yourself, your relationships, and the world around you. I am passionate about empowering people from all backgrounds through culturally sensitive treatment and being actively present throughout your enriching and powerful journey of healing and growth. As individuals face challenges that are unique to them, I engage them with a therapeutic approach that is both personalized and dynamic.
(919) 873-3347 View (919) 873-3347
Photo of Mignon Hooper - Namaste Psychotherapy & Consulting, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Namaste Psychotherapy & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701  (Online Only)
Individuals, families receive clinically innovative, culturally sensitive, linguistically appropriate, multicultural therapeutic support.
Que Sí. Hablamos Español para servirles bien! I am Bilingual/ Bi-cultural Therapist with over 25 years of experience, both in the United States and abroad. A graduate of the Smith College School for Social Work and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I supervise aspiring clinicians using a combination of trauma-informed modalities, designed to address the multidimensional needs of a very diverse client population. Clients, ready to live beyond their fear, painful experiences, and live thier best life, tell me that my passion for supporting the same is contagious! Your healing and wellbeing is my priority, and why I chose this career.
Individuals, families receive clinically innovative, culturally sensitive, linguistically appropriate, multicultural therapeutic support.
Que Sí. Hablamos Español para servirles bien! I am Bilingual/ Bi-cultural Therapist with over 25 years of experience, both in the United States and abroad. A graduate of the Smith College School for Social Work and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I supervise aspiring clinicians using a combination of trauma-informed modalities, designed to address the multidimensional needs of a very diverse client population. Clients, ready to live beyond their fear, painful experiences, and live thier best life, tell me that my passion for supporting the same is contagious! Your healing and wellbeing is my priority, and why I chose this career.
(919) 584-4005 View (919) 584-4005
Photo of Melissa Yarborough, PsyD, HSP-P, Psychologist
Melissa Yarborough
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518  (Online Only)
I apply a culturally sensitive and trauma informed perspective to my work and strive to make you feel understood and cared for while addressing your concerns.
Are you struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, or relationship concerns? You don't have to do it alone. I can help. My primary specialty areas include survivors of interpersonal violence and sexual assault, other trauma survivors, and members of the LGBTQIA community. I also greatly enjoy working with those who struggle with family-related concerns and life transitions including grief and loss, pregnancy & postpartum, marriage & divorce, adjusting to college or a new career, etc.
I apply a culturally sensitive and trauma informed perspective to my work and strive to make you feel understood and cared for while addressing your concerns.
Are you struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, or relationship concerns? You don't have to do it alone. I can help. My primary specialty areas include survivors of interpersonal violence and sexual assault, other trauma survivors, and members of the LGBTQIA community. I also greatly enjoy working with those who struggle with family-related concerns and life transitions including grief and loss, pregnancy & postpartum, marriage & divorce, adjusting to college or a new career, etc.
(919) 600-4906 View (919) 600-4906
Photo of Cheryl Cohen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Congratulations! You have chosen to seek help. It is important to find a therapist you can build a relationship with. I am described as an interactive, insightful, intuitive, genuine, non-judgemental therapist. My expertise comes from a unique balance of professional and personal training and experience. I have a passion for what I do and love coming to work everyday. I would love to join you in getting where you want to be. I am a cognitive behavioral therapist with a family systems perspective. I add compassion-focused, culturally sensitive, attachment-based therapy with a solution focus, to fit each person's individuality.
Congratulations! You have chosen to seek help. It is important to find a therapist you can build a relationship with. I am described as an interactive, insightful, intuitive, genuine, non-judgemental therapist. My expertise comes from a unique balance of professional and personal training and experience. I have a passion for what I do and love coming to work everyday. I would love to join you in getting where you want to be. I am a cognitive behavioral therapist with a family systems perspective. I add compassion-focused, culturally sensitive, attachment-based therapy with a solution focus, to fit each person's individuality.
(919) 572-0000 View (919) 572-0000
Photo of Nathan Cassidy, LCMHCS, LCAS, CSS
Nathan Cassidy
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CSS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27403  (Online Only)
As a dedicated mental health therapist, I am passionate about promoting healing and growth through individual, group, and family therapy. My personal and cultural experiences bring a unique perspective and understanding to my practice, recognizing the importance of culturally sensitive and inclusive approaches to therapy. My goal is to create a supportive environment to empower exploration of thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Through collaboration and compassionate guidance, I strive to help individuals navigate challenges, develop coping skills, and cultivate a deeper understanding of their experiences.
As a dedicated mental health therapist, I am passionate about promoting healing and growth through individual, group, and family therapy. My personal and cultural experiences bring a unique perspective and understanding to my practice, recognizing the importance of culturally sensitive and inclusive approaches to therapy. My goal is to create a supportive environment to empower exploration of thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Through collaboration and compassionate guidance, I strive to help individuals navigate challenges, develop coping skills, and cultivate a deeper understanding of their experiences.
(336) 916-7820 View (336) 916-7820
Photo of James M. Sutton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James M. Sutton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina, I believe that all should have access to affordable culturally sensitive therapy/counseling. This belief prompted me to begin practicing therapy in 2010. I believe that seeking therapy demonstrates strength, not weakness, and my aim is to make mental health services more accessible to all. My professional experience includes working with adults, families, children, adolescents, and couples where I provided counseling in community mental health, counseling to military members and their families, and counseling to offenders within the criminal justice system.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina, I believe that all should have access to affordable culturally sensitive therapy/counseling. This belief prompted me to begin practicing therapy in 2010. I believe that seeking therapy demonstrates strength, not weakness, and my aim is to make mental health services more accessible to all. My professional experience includes working with adults, families, children, adolescents, and couples where I provided counseling in community mental health, counseling to military members and their families, and counseling to offenders within the criminal justice system.
(919) 877-6809 View (919) 877-6809
Photo of Laura B Barnes, LCMHC, NCC, BCB
Laura B Barnes
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, BCB
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511  (Online Only)
I provide a trauma informed and culturally sensitive space where I utilize my trainings in EMDR, biofeedback and psychotherapy with children, teens, and adults.
I believe that we are made of many parts and that our overall wellness cannot exist without mental clarity. I value therapy for my own personal self, and as a result, I value and cherish the opportunity to be a part of someone else's therapy journey.
I provide a trauma informed and culturally sensitive space where I utilize my trainings in EMDR, biofeedback and psychotherapy with children, teens, and adults.
I believe that we are made of many parts and that our overall wellness cannot exist without mental clarity. I value therapy for my own personal self, and as a result, I value and cherish the opportunity to be a part of someone else's therapy journey.
(252) 590-0672 View (252) 590-0672
Photo of Claudio Andres Barrientos, LCSW-A, LMSW
Claudio Andres Barrientos
LCSW Associate , LCSW-A, LMSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I do this in a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed way, and help you navigate issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
I often tell my clients that life is full of VUCA: Volatility. Uncertainty. Complexity. And Ambiguity. If your're feeling stuck, or anxious, or overwhelmed by VUCA, I'm here to help you. As a mindfulness-based therapist, I listen keenly. Guided by an understanding of your needs. Our journey can take many forms. You may learn new coping skills, unravel unhelpful thought patterns, or learn to let-go of the habits no longer serving you. No matter the direction, feel confident in knowing that grace, grit, and wisdom are the forces that will lead you to healing.
I do this in a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed way, and help you navigate issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions.
I often tell my clients that life is full of VUCA: Volatility. Uncertainty. Complexity. And Ambiguity. If your're feeling stuck, or anxious, or overwhelmed by VUCA, I'm here to help you. As a mindfulness-based therapist, I listen keenly. Guided by an understanding of your needs. Our journey can take many forms. You may learn new coping skills, unravel unhelpful thought patterns, or learn to let-go of the habits no longer serving you. No matter the direction, feel confident in knowing that grace, grit, and wisdom are the forces that will lead you to healing.
(984) 230-9109 View (984) 230-9109
Photo of Shafik Powell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shafik Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27407
I consider myself a generalist but I have a passion for treating trauma/PTSD, OCD, and providing culturally sensitive care.
Everyone is responsible for protecting and nurturing their mental health. Navigating through difficult life experiences can manifest stress, unhappiness, anxiety, anger, etc. Sometimes, we develop harmful ways to cope with these life experiences such as isolating ourselves, lashing out at others, abusing substances, among other things. It can be difficult to take the first step and reach out for therapy/counseling. However, taking that first step means that you're prepared to figure out how you can improve your circumstance and move forward. It's my mission to offer you support through your process of achieving mental wellness!
I consider myself a generalist but I have a passion for treating trauma/PTSD, OCD, and providing culturally sensitive care.
Everyone is responsible for protecting and nurturing their mental health. Navigating through difficult life experiences can manifest stress, unhappiness, anxiety, anger, etc. Sometimes, we develop harmful ways to cope with these life experiences such as isolating ourselves, lashing out at others, abusing substances, among other things. It can be difficult to take the first step and reach out for therapy/counseling. However, taking that first step means that you're prepared to figure out how you can improve your circumstance and move forward. It's my mission to offer you support through your process of achieving mental wellness!
(336) 818-5375 View (336) 818-5375
Photo of Carla Zerger, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carla Zerger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28306  (Online Only)
It is important to me that I engage with you in a culturally sensitive, nonjudgmental, and professional way to create safety and trust in the therapeutic relationship.
I have always been passionate about helping people find solutions to complex problems. As a therapist, I help you find the clarity you need to make big decisions, navigate life transitions, and process emotionally difficult experiences. I have experience in outpatient therapy clinics as well as experience in residential settings with people who are living with PTSD. Our initial session will be a discussion about what brings you to therapy and what you’d like to change. Our work will be collaborative; you will have choice and autonomy along the way.
It is important to me that I engage with you in a culturally sensitive, nonjudgmental, and professional way to create safety and trust in the therapeutic relationship.
I have always been passionate about helping people find solutions to complex problems. As a therapist, I help you find the clarity you need to make big decisions, navigate life transitions, and process emotionally difficult experiences. I have experience in outpatient therapy clinics as well as experience in residential settings with people who are living with PTSD. Our initial session will be a discussion about what brings you to therapy and what you’d like to change. Our work will be collaborative; you will have choice and autonomy along the way.
(910) 407-7259 View (910) 407-7259
Photo of Nandana Surana, MEd, EdS, LPA, Psychologist
Nandana Surana
Psychologist, MEd, EdS, LPA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Over the last decade, my focus has been on helping my clients address mental blockers that stand in the way of achieving their potential. I have worked with clients across a spectrum of stressors ranging from anxiety and depression to complex emotional and behavioral disorders, learning disabilities, autism, developmental delays, and life transitions. I bring a culturally sensitive approach to psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and consultation.
Over the last decade, my focus has been on helping my clients address mental blockers that stand in the way of achieving their potential. I have worked with clients across a spectrum of stressors ranging from anxiety and depression to complex emotional and behavioral disorders, learning disabilities, autism, developmental delays, and life transitions. I bring a culturally sensitive approach to psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and consultation.
(984) 231-8356 View (984) 231-8356
Photo of Stella L Green, LCSWA, LCAS, DOT-SAP, DWI, ADETS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Stella L Green
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCSWA, LCAS, DOT-SAP, DWI, ADETS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
Waitlist for new clients
I have a non-judgemental approach, empathic, culturally sensitive and committed to your well being.
I have been working in the field for 25+ years in various capacities from IDD/Autism, clinics, in and out patient, LGBTQ, Correctional Facility Drug Program, men and adolescent re-entry, brushing with some gang activity. Whats was common was: NO PLAN; there should to be a plan. People have to be honest with themself. When being assessed be honest; fabricating the truth; the cycle continues; being honest; the healing begins. It's not easy, but necessary. A plan built on truth and commitment, support goes a long way. Surprise yourself, non-judgmental, compassionate, safe atmosphere.
I have a non-judgemental approach, empathic, culturally sensitive and committed to your well being.
I have been working in the field for 25+ years in various capacities from IDD/Autism, clinics, in and out patient, LGBTQ, Correctional Facility Drug Program, men and adolescent re-entry, brushing with some gang activity. Whats was common was: NO PLAN; there should to be a plan. People have to be honest with themself. When being assessed be honest; fabricating the truth; the cycle continues; being honest; the healing begins. It's not easy, but necessary. A plan built on truth and commitment, support goes a long way. Surprise yourself, non-judgmental, compassionate, safe atmosphere.
(919) 752-3968 View (919) 752-3968
Photo of Arielle Karoub, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Arielle Karoub
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
My approach is empathetic and culturally sensitive to uphold my client's values and beliefs.
Are you feeling stuck in your patterns? Feeling like a constant loop of negative thoughts? I help my clients find ways to challenge and reframe intrusive thought patterns. I help my clients manage fear of rejection/abandonment through self compassion and radical acceptance. I help those who are exploring their self identity and need to build up their self confidence. Those who maybe neurodivergent, have immigrated here, or who find themselves not fitting in. I affirm LGBTQIA+, Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and Multicultural.
My approach is empathetic and culturally sensitive to uphold my client's values and beliefs.
Are you feeling stuck in your patterns? Feeling like a constant loop of negative thoughts? I help my clients find ways to challenge and reframe intrusive thought patterns. I help my clients manage fear of rejection/abandonment through self compassion and radical acceptance. I help those who are exploring their self identity and need to build up their self confidence. Those who maybe neurodivergent, have immigrated here, or who find themselves not fitting in. I affirm LGBTQIA+, Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and Multicultural.
(919) 646-6710 View (919) 646-6710
Photo of Karina Akouka, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karina Akouka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518  (Online Only)
My approach is warm, empathic, integrative, culturally sensitive and trauma informed.
The transition to motherhood and parenthood can be a difficult transition. During this life changing transition you might find yourself feeling sad, overwhelmed, lonely, and unsure if you will find your groove again. Mothers and parents may feel a loss of sense of self and increased depression and anxiety as they navigate relationships and how they fit into their old selves again. Together, we can discover new ways to manage your feelings and deepen self-awareness to lead you to feel more fulfilled in your new role.
My approach is warm, empathic, integrative, culturally sensitive and trauma informed.
The transition to motherhood and parenthood can be a difficult transition. During this life changing transition you might find yourself feeling sad, overwhelmed, lonely, and unsure if you will find your groove again. Mothers and parents may feel a loss of sense of self and increased depression and anxiety as they navigate relationships and how they fit into their old selves again. Together, we can discover new ways to manage your feelings and deepen self-awareness to lead you to feel more fulfilled in your new role.
(415) 534-4331 View (415) 534-4331
Photo of Lyndsay Cayton, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Lyndsay Cayton
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858
Culturally sensitive, superior communication skills, solution-focused counseling, experience in CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) and play therapy, individual, couples, and group counseling, performing psychosocial assessments, treatment planning, suicide risk/safety planning, communication/conflict management, anxiety and stress management, and depression.
Compassionate Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist, dedicated in helping others overcome personal obstacles by using various treatment modalities to meet the unique needs of every client. As a former military spouse, I have added experience serving a diverse population, including active-duty soldiers and their extended families. I provide individual counseling for children, adolescents, teens, and adults, as well as providing couples counseling.
Culturally sensitive, superior communication skills, solution-focused counseling, experience in CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) and play therapy, individual, couples, and group counseling, performing psychosocial assessments, treatment planning, suicide risk/safety planning, communication/conflict management, anxiety and stress management, and depression.
Compassionate Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist, dedicated in helping others overcome personal obstacles by using various treatment modalities to meet the unique needs of every client. As a former military spouse, I have added experience serving a diverse population, including active-duty soldiers and their extended families. I provide individual counseling for children, adolescents, teens, and adults, as well as providing couples counseling.
(252) 888-1856 View (252) 888-1856

See more therapy options for Louisburg

Culturally Sensitive Therapists

How does culturally sensitive therapy work?

A culturally sensitive therapist will tailor their approach to therapy based on the individual client’s background. This may include changing their style of interaction (asking open-ended questions vs. being the “expert” voice), their affect (seeming warm or “neutral”), how much personal information they disclose about themselves, and more. It’s also important for a culturally sensitive therapist to acknowledge larger societal forces that may impact their client due to the client’s background.

How effective is culturally sensitive therapy?

Some professionals have expressed concern about highlighting cultural differences in therapy, suggesting that it might promote stereotypes and harm the therapeutic bond; however, many experts agree that cultural sensitivity tends to strengthen the connection between therapist and client and help clients feel heard and understood. A culturally sensitive approach to therapy can be especially helpful for those not in the cultural majority, especially when combined with proven therapies like Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

What are the limitations of a culturally sensitive approach to therapy?

While being culturally sensitive is generally a valuable skill to have, a therapist cannot treat every client from a similar background the same way. Each client is an individual with their own values, personal preferences, and life experiences that will need to be explored during therapy. In addition, it’s rare for a therapist and client to have identical backgrounds, so there may be some cross-cultural differences to navigate during therapy, but a culturally sensitive therapist can do so with empathy and respect.

Can culturally sensitive therapy be done online?

Yes, online therapy using a culturally sensitive approach can be beneficial. Therapy can sometimes be difficult to access for clients from diverse backgrounds and socioeconomic standing. The array of mental health support available through the internet makes it possible for clients to find a good therapist match regardless of where they live.