Christian Therapists in Hermitage, PA

Photo of Jeanette Murray-Hall - Jeanette Murray-Hall, Counseling, Inc , MS, LPC, Counselor
Jeanette Murray-Hall, Counseling, Inc
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Hermitage, PA 16148  (Online Only)
I believe that mental healthal involves approaching healing from the perspective of body, mind and spirit, and I try to address emotional healing from an integrative perspective that looks at the whole person. In addition to sharing and processing emotion, we may also explore thoughts, lifestyle, relationships, faith, and nutrition. My areas of special interest include grief, anxiety, depression, self awareness and personal growth at a deep level. If you are interested in incorporating Christian faith into the healing process, know that we will develop a therapeutic approach that aligns with mental and spiritual well being.
I believe that mental healthal involves approaching healing from the perspective of body, mind and spirit, and I try to address emotional healing from an integrative perspective that looks at the whole person. In addition to sharing and processing emotion, we may also explore thoughts, lifestyle, relationships, faith, and nutrition. My areas of special interest include grief, anxiety, depression, self awareness and personal growth at a deep level. If you are interested in incorporating Christian faith into the healing process, know that we will develop a therapeutic approach that aligns with mental and spiritual well being.
(724) 564-6833 View (724) 564-6833
Photo of Cara Papay, LPC, MSEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cara Papay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermitage, PA 16148  (Online Only)
I am a Christian who has been clinically trained in Mental Health Counseling.
Not accepting new clients at this time. Email to be place on waiting list. Hi, I’m Cara! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a decade of experience. My goal is to help you reach your goals— whatever they may be. Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Do you desire to improve your confidence? Are there obstacles you want help overcoming? Do you need to work on improving your coping skills? I take a collaborative approach where I will walk alongside you—respect, empathy, and remaining nonjudgmental are principles I strive for. I believe we are all capable of change if given proper support.
I am a Christian who has been clinically trained in Mental Health Counseling.
Not accepting new clients at this time. Email to be place on waiting list. Hi, I’m Cara! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a decade of experience. My goal is to help you reach your goals— whatever they may be. Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Do you desire to improve your confidence? Are there obstacles you want help overcoming? Do you need to work on improving your coping skills? I take a collaborative approach where I will walk alongside you—respect, empathy, and remaining nonjudgmental are principles I strive for. I believe we are all capable of change if given proper support.
(724) 200-8546 View (724) 200-8546
Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermitage, PA 16148
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(724) 602-2294 View (724) 602-2294
Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Hermitage, PA 16148
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(724) 204-2379 View (724) 204-2379
Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Hermitage, PA 16148
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(814) 501-4909 View (814) 501-4909
Photo of Conor Scullin, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Conor Scullin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermitage, PA 16148
Hi. I’m Conor Scullin. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor. More specifically I am someone who sparks change in people’s lives and relationships. I provide non-judgmental support when you are feeling stuck. I support you in exploring your history and uncovering patterns that you may not be aware of so that you can begin to have more control and success in your life.
Hi. I’m Conor Scullin. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor. More specifically I am someone who sparks change in people’s lives and relationships. I provide non-judgmental support when you are feeling stuck. I support you in exploring your history and uncovering patterns that you may not be aware of so that you can begin to have more control and success in your life.
(724) 607-8190 View (724) 607-8190
Photo of Melody Lynn Wilson, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melody Lynn Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Hermitage, PA 16148  (Online Only)
I hold a Masters of Arts degree and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) with over 25 years experience in the social services/mental health field combined. I am also a professional member of the American Counseling Association (ACA). I have worked with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, anger management, problems with parenting skills, grief and loss, physical and sexual abuse, sexual identity concerns, the LGBTQ community and a vast range of child and adolescent issues. I typically pull from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) , Motivational Interviewing Theory and Solution Focused theory standpoint.
I hold a Masters of Arts degree and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) with over 25 years experience in the social services/mental health field combined. I am also a professional member of the American Counseling Association (ACA). I have worked with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, anger management, problems with parenting skills, grief and loss, physical and sexual abuse, sexual identity concerns, the LGBTQ community and a vast range of child and adolescent issues. I typically pull from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) , Motivational Interviewing Theory and Solution Focused theory standpoint.
(724) 492-4850 View (724) 492-4850
Photo of Rebecca E Banjak, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca E Banjak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermitage, PA 16148
I hold a Masters in Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have been working in the mental health and social service field for over 18 years. I am excited to be helping people overcome their individual barriers to emotional health and personal success.
I hold a Masters in Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have been working in the mental health and social service field for over 18 years. I am excited to be helping people overcome their individual barriers to emotional health and personal success.
(878) 203-1861 View (878) 203-1861
Photo of Fred P Gallo - Gallo and Associates Psychological Services, PhD, DCEP, Psychologist
Gallo and Associates Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, DCEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermitage, PA 16148
Hi, I'm Dr. Fred Gallo and I want to Welcome you to Gallo & Associates Psychological Services. We've been in practice since 1977, offering cutting-edge therapy, coaching and evaluations to help individuals, couples, and families. We're passionate about helping people to overcome trauma, PTSD, grief, phobias, anxiety, addiction, depression, chronic pain, and relationship problems. Having published 9 books on brief therapies including Energy Psychology, I also train therapists worldwide in these skills.
Hi, I'm Dr. Fred Gallo and I want to Welcome you to Gallo & Associates Psychological Services. We've been in practice since 1977, offering cutting-edge therapy, coaching and evaluations to help individuals, couples, and families. We're passionate about helping people to overcome trauma, PTSD, grief, phobias, anxiety, addiction, depression, chronic pain, and relationship problems. Having published 9 books on brief therapies including Energy Psychology, I also train therapists worldwide in these skills.
(724) 919-4654 View (724) 919-4654
Photo of Janie Gibson, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janie Gibson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Hermitage, PA 16148  (Online Only)
I am a licensed counselor with over 20 years experience working with individuals to address various mental health needs. I take a collaborative approach, working with clients to help them develop a “tool box” to address obstacles related to depression, anxiety, marital and family issues, and adjustment to any changes life may throw their way. I have an interest in working with adult women facing periods of transition, such as moving from school into the work force, and navigating changes in interpersonal relationships, career, or family responsibilities. I also enjoy working with clients seeking a faith-based approach to therapy.
I am a licensed counselor with over 20 years experience working with individuals to address various mental health needs. I take a collaborative approach, working with clients to help them develop a “tool box” to address obstacles related to depression, anxiety, marital and family issues, and adjustment to any changes life may throw their way. I have an interest in working with adult women facing periods of transition, such as moving from school into the work force, and navigating changes in interpersonal relationships, career, or family responsibilities. I also enjoy working with clients seeking a faith-based approach to therapy.
(724) 564-6531 View (724) 564-6531
Photo of Corrine L Wise - Healing Counsel Christian Counseling, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Healing Counsel Christian Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Hermitage, PA 16148
Healing Counsel provides both in-person and online counseling services for individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, marriage difficulties, divorce, adolescent issues, grief, and a variety of life issues. I provide client focused therapy using CBT, ACT, and Biblical focused therapy. My client centered therapy is tailored to the needs of each individual client looking at their individual needs and goals from a holistic perspective. My goal is to come alongside each person in the healing process providing a safe place where my clients feel heard, cared for, and valued as the unique person God created them to be.
Healing Counsel provides both in-person and online counseling services for individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, marriage difficulties, divorce, adolescent issues, grief, and a variety of life issues. I provide client focused therapy using CBT, ACT, and Biblical focused therapy. My client centered therapy is tailored to the needs of each individual client looking at their individual needs and goals from a holistic perspective. My goal is to come alongside each person in the healing process providing a safe place where my clients feel heard, cared for, and valued as the unique person God created them to be.
(724) 580-2473 View (724) 580-2473

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rebecca Martin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sharon, PA 16146  (Online Only)
I aim to create a safe and welcoming environment where my clients can feel comfortable sharing their life stressors and experiences. My goal is to meet my client where they are, as every person and their experiences are different and should be treated as such. I work to provide a collaborative approach to treatment with my clients by developing goals that address their needs and what they hope to achieve in therapy.
I aim to create a safe and welcoming environment where my clients can feel comfortable sharing their life stressors and experiences. My goal is to meet my client where they are, as every person and their experiences are different and should be treated as such. I work to provide a collaborative approach to treatment with my clients by developing goals that address their needs and what they hope to achieve in therapy.
(724) 200-8544 View (724) 200-8544

Online Therapists

Photo of Danielle Fry, MA, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Fry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Butler, PA 16001
Waitlist for new clients
However, as a Christian I am able to guide your spiritual growth from a Christian perspective and incorporate those beliefs and practices into the session, when desired.
To be added to wait list: email with your insurance information & scheduling needs. I will reach out only once I have an opening. Does it feel as though your spirit is being drained by your past? Have past traumas taken over your identity and quashed your joy? I have 15 years experience serving survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other violent crimes. I would be honored to walk you through the process of healing and understanding. Guiding you to a deeper understanding of what you experienced, and how it impacts the human brain, body, and spirit. You are having a normal human reaction to an abnormal experience.
However, as a Christian I am able to guide your spiritual growth from a Christian perspective and incorporate those beliefs and practices into the session, when desired.
To be added to wait list: email with your insurance information & scheduling needs. I will reach out only once I have an opening. Does it feel as though your spirit is being drained by your past? Have past traumas taken over your identity and quashed your joy? I have 15 years experience serving survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other violent crimes. I would be honored to walk you through the process of healing and understanding. Guiding you to a deeper understanding of what you experienced, and how it impacts the human brain, body, and spirit. You are having a normal human reaction to an abnormal experience.
(412) 981-2877 View (412) 981-2877
Photo of Mike Catanzarito, LPC, Counselor
Mike Catanzarito
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Du Bois, PA 15801  (Online Only)
I attended Ashland University and Seminary and have been a counselor for 15 years and come from a Christian perspective.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Psychology Professor that specializes in Anxiety and Depression treatment as a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. I developed a specific recovery program that has helped 1,000s of people. See promo video here (copy the YouTube address and paste in your browser): youtu.be/qJHZD0dRbGY - I am also a Licensed Pastor and have a Christian perspective in working with clients. Although anxiety and depression are my specialties, I can help with a variety of issues using a Cognitive Behavioral Approach.
I attended Ashland University and Seminary and have been a counselor for 15 years and come from a Christian perspective.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Psychology Professor that specializes in Anxiety and Depression treatment as a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. I developed a specific recovery program that has helped 1,000s of people. See promo video here (copy the YouTube address and paste in your browser): youtu.be/qJHZD0dRbGY - I am also a Licensed Pastor and have a Christian perspective in working with clients. Although anxiety and depression are my specialties, I can help with a variety of issues using a Cognitive Behavioral Approach.
(814) 850-2381 View (814) 850-2381
Photo of Mikki Burgess, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mikki Burgess
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212  (Online Only)
While I am a Christian therapist and enjoy incorporating the Christian perspective in counseling sessions, I am willing to work with clients from different faith backgrounds.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues or current stressors and want to navigate life’s stressors from a Christian worldview? If so, I am here to help!
While I am a Christian therapist and enjoy incorporating the Christian perspective in counseling sessions, I am willing to work with clients from different faith backgrounds.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues or current stressors and want to navigate life’s stressors from a Christian worldview? If so, I am here to help!
(412) 435-3930 View (412) 435-3930
Photo of Jennifer Simon, MA, CMHC, NCC
Jennifer Simon
MA, CMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
I offer in-person or virtual sessions, and integration of Christian principles for those who desire a faith-based approach.
Do you struggle with feeling overwhelmed, overworked, or stuck in the same patterns that are keeping you from living the life you want? Is day-to-day life just not going the way you thought it would? Relational challenges, past trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression can all make the day-to-day really difficult. Do you ever say to yourself, “I should feel better, act better, or deserve better”? Sometimes, we are stuck and need some support to do the next right thing. Together, we can learn from the past to better understand who you are today and then make decisions based on “what makes you - you” to build a better future.
I offer in-person or virtual sessions, and integration of Christian principles for those who desire a faith-based approach.
Do you struggle with feeling overwhelmed, overworked, or stuck in the same patterns that are keeping you from living the life you want? Is day-to-day life just not going the way you thought it would? Relational challenges, past trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression can all make the day-to-day really difficult. Do you ever say to yourself, “I should feel better, act better, or deserve better”? Sometimes, we are stuck and need some support to do the next right thing. Together, we can learn from the past to better understand who you are today and then make decisions based on “what makes you - you” to build a better future.
(724) 200-8698 View (724) 200-8698
Photo of Pascual Chen, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Pascual Chen
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
Change happens one decision at a time. If you are feeling hopeless, confused, frustrated, stuck, or stressed, I can help. Most of my clients see me because they are experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, or relational/marital conflict. Others see me to gain insight and understanding to a life transition or temporary problem. I provide a safe and warm environment for my clients to feel validated, understood, encouraged, and hopeful. I use evidence-based and goal-directed treatments. I am passionate about working with people to reach their potential and flourish. Therapy within a Christian framework is offered upon request.
Change happens one decision at a time. If you are feeling hopeless, confused, frustrated, stuck, or stressed, I can help. Most of my clients see me because they are experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, or relational/marital conflict. Others see me to gain insight and understanding to a life transition or temporary problem. I provide a safe and warm environment for my clients to feel validated, understood, encouraged, and hopeful. I use evidence-based and goal-directed treatments. I am passionate about working with people to reach their potential and flourish. Therapy within a Christian framework is offered upon request.
(412) 453-5636 View (412) 453-5636
Photo of Brittany Eshelman, LMHC, LPC
Brittany Eshelman
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15213  (Online Only)
Life can be both an adventure and a challenge. I provide a safe space to come as you are and feel comfortable in sharing emotions, gaining support, and learning healthy skills to navigate your journey. I have been in practice since 2013, coming along side individuals going through the many transitions and adjustments that often occur with relationships, work, identity, family, and everything in between. I will meet you where you are and help to guide you in becoming the best version of you. I especially enjoy working with clients from a Christian-based perspective for those who desire this.
Life can be both an adventure and a challenge. I provide a safe space to come as you are and feel comfortable in sharing emotions, gaining support, and learning healthy skills to navigate your journey. I have been in practice since 2013, coming along side individuals going through the many transitions and adjustments that often occur with relationships, work, identity, family, and everything in between. I will meet you where you are and help to guide you in becoming the best version of you. I especially enjoy working with clients from a Christian-based perspective for those who desire this.
View
Photo of Nariesh R Paltoo, MA, MFT, Pastoral Counselor
Nariesh R Paltoo
Pastoral Counselor, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Cheswick, PA 15024  (Online Only)
As a Christian Counselor and combat Veteran, I've learned to adapt to different circumstances in life.
I believe that the foundation of a strong Marriage and family begins with healthy communication and understanding. Through our counseling sessions, I help families develop effective communication skills, build deeper spiritual connections, and work through any conflicts or challenges that may arise. As a Christian Counselor specializing in Marriage and family, I can empathize with most people when dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, ADD, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorders.
As a Christian Counselor and combat Veteran, I've learned to adapt to different circumstances in life.
I believe that the foundation of a strong Marriage and family begins with healthy communication and understanding. Through our counseling sessions, I help families develop effective communication skills, build deeper spiritual connections, and work through any conflicts or challenges that may arise. As a Christian Counselor specializing in Marriage and family, I can empathize with most people when dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, ADD, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorders.
(646) 713-1813 View (646) 713-1813
Photo of Shannon Schroeder, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Schroeder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090  (Online Only)
While I work with people of diverse backgrounds, I offer Christian counseling when desired.
Are you struggling with pain from the past, challenges of current circumstances, or concerns about an uncertain future? Perhaps you are wanting to work through trauma, issues with mood or anxiety, or eating/body image concerns? Are you in a hard season of life where discouragement, hurt, and struggles feel overwhelming? So many people have been where you are and found counseling to be a safe space to work on their journey for hope and healing. if you are looking for a space where you can change the way you think, gather awareness and work on emotion regulation, and find accountability and encouragement for change, I can help.
While I work with people of diverse backgrounds, I offer Christian counseling when desired.
Are you struggling with pain from the past, challenges of current circumstances, or concerns about an uncertain future? Perhaps you are wanting to work through trauma, issues with mood or anxiety, or eating/body image concerns? Are you in a hard season of life where discouragement, hurt, and struggles feel overwhelming? So many people have been where you are and found counseling to be a safe space to work on their journey for hope and healing. if you are looking for a space where you can change the way you think, gather awareness and work on emotion regulation, and find accountability and encouragement for change, I can help.
(724) 204-2219 View (724) 204-2219

See more therapy options for Hermitage

Christian Therapists

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

Therapists and clients don’t need to share the same belief system or background to be able to work effectively together, but a therapist whose training includes a focus on cultural competence may be better able to form a therapeutic bond with individuals from a range of backgrounds, as they will have experience in tailoring their approach to each client—and will be prepared to acknowledge and consider the effects of culture, religion, and other factors on each individual.

Why is it important to find a therapist sensitive to Christian values?

Each person brings a unique history and background to therapy, making it important to find a licensed therapist who is trained in a broad range of treatment modalities. In addition, for people who grow up in a faith tradition that strongly influences the way they conduct their everyday life, finding a therapist who understands or shares that background can ease the disclosure of sensitive information and facilitate the therapeutic process. For some clients, a Christian therapist is likely to incorporate faith-based principles into emotional healing techniques.

How do I recognize an effective Christian therapist?

Christian therapists are licensed mental health professionals—holding a master’s or doctoral degree in medicine, nursing, psychology, counseling, social work, or marriage and family therapy—who are also familiar with Christian beliefs and values. They have an understanding of the importance that Christian principles play in the lives of individuals and families, which allows them to be especially sensitive to the kinds of struggles that can affect daily functioning. Like all effective therapists, a Christian therapist will have undergone training and certification in a variety of treatment modalities that help people through crises and enable them to master the challenges of life.

Why might someone feel comfortable with a Christian therapist?

While training, qualifications, and experience are always important, research has long established that a strong alliance between client and therapist is a major contributor to therapeutic success. An alliance is likely to be strengthened with a therapist who not only is responsive to questions and concerns but also shares a client’s faith and values. Sensitivity to spiritual matters as well as to everyday struggles can provide a welcome sense of safety and contribute to the bond between client and therapist, both of which support the therapeutic process.

Who is included in Psychology Today’s directory of Christian therapists?

The directory of Christian therapists includes professionals who have shared their background in their profiles. However, not all therapists choose to disclose this information, and they may not appear in search results for this reason. The directory also shows therapists who indicate that they have extensive experience working with Christian clients, regardless of their own background or religious affiliation.