Multicultural Therapists in Orange County, VA

Photo of Anne C Luckinbill - Seasons Counseling, PLLC , MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Seasons Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Locust Grove, VA 22508
Greetings! I am Anne Luckinbill, LPC. Seasons Counseling has a team of caring therapists who are skilled at assessing and diagnosing mental health concerns based on current struggles and your historical information. Your concerns about behavior, emotion, personality, and relationships will be treated using Emotionally Focused Therapy, CBT, and other therapeutic approaches. Trauma concerns will be addressed with an understanding that trauma impacts daily function and interactions. Likewise, early relationships and attachment patterns impact our current relationships. We serve children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
Greetings! I am Anne Luckinbill, LPC. Seasons Counseling has a team of caring therapists who are skilled at assessing and diagnosing mental health concerns based on current struggles and your historical information. Your concerns about behavior, emotion, personality, and relationships will be treated using Emotionally Focused Therapy, CBT, and other therapeutic approaches. Trauma concerns will be addressed with an understanding that trauma impacts daily function and interactions. Likewise, early relationships and attachment patterns impact our current relationships. We serve children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
(540) 274-1010 View (540) 274-1010
Photo of Sarah McClelland - Counseling Services of Virginia, LCSW, LPC, OT, CALT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling Services of Virginia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, OT, CALT
Verified Verified
Orange, VA 22960
Have your negative thoughts taken over? Have you been feeling sad or stressed while trying to keep it all together? Struggling with motivation? Are your relationships distant or full of conflict? Have you been feeling disconnected from those around you? Wanting to talk with someone but not knowing with whom, or how? Asking for help can be hard! Seeking therapy requires a great deal of strength and commitment and you have taken a great first step. We are going to guide you the rest of the way.
Have your negative thoughts taken over? Have you been feeling sad or stressed while trying to keep it all together? Struggling with motivation? Are your relationships distant or full of conflict? Have you been feeling disconnected from those around you? Wanting to talk with someone but not knowing with whom, or how? Asking for help can be hard! Seeking therapy requires a great deal of strength and commitment and you have taken a great first step. We are going to guide you the rest of the way.
(540) 699-1767 View (540) 699-1767

Online Therapists

Photo of Claudia Bracey, LPC, NCC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claudia Bracey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23229
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with adults struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, communication difficulties, low self-esteem, multicultural issues, and interpersonal relationship conflict. In addition, I have a background in facilitating family therapy, couples counseling, and group processes. I specialize in working with women and individuals that identify as women (LGBTQ+ community, teens, young mothers, adults, minorities). I specialize in women’s health counseling, perinatal counseling, and other specific women’s issues.
I have experience working with adults struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, communication difficulties, low self-esteem, multicultural issues, and interpersonal relationship conflict. In addition, I have a background in facilitating family therapy, couples counseling, and group processes. I specialize in working with women and individuals that identify as women (LGBTQ+ community, teens, young mothers, adults, minorities). I specialize in women’s health counseling, perinatal counseling, and other specific women’s issues.
(804) 889-2798 View (804) 889-2798
Photo of Dr. Lisa Fuentes, PhD
Dr. Lisa Fuentes
Resident in Psychology, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22203
Dr. Fuentes is bilingual and provides therapy in both English and Español. She specializes in PTSD, immigration trauma, multicultural issues, depression, anxiety, couples counseling, relationship issues, OCD, eating disorders, diabetes management, weight management, and insomnia. Dr. Fuentes believes in meeting clients with compassion, humor, cultural humility and a genuine interest in their treatment goals. She uses an integrative approach, including, DBT, CBT, Gottmans’ Couples Therapy, Narrative, and multicultural and trauma-focused interventions.
Dr. Fuentes is bilingual and provides therapy in both English and Español. She specializes in PTSD, immigration trauma, multicultural issues, depression, anxiety, couples counseling, relationship issues, OCD, eating disorders, diabetes management, weight management, and insomnia. Dr. Fuentes believes in meeting clients with compassion, humor, cultural humility and a genuine interest in their treatment goals. She uses an integrative approach, including, DBT, CBT, Gottmans’ Couples Therapy, Narrative, and multicultural and trauma-focused interventions.
(571) 621-5876 View (571) 621-5876
Photo of Catherine Grace Brackett, MEd
Catherine Grace Brackett
Resident in Counseling, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fredericksburg, VA 22407  (Online Only)
In practice, I rely heavily on the notion that learning and growth cannot occur without safety and connection. I focus on building honest relationships with clients and have worked with children and adolescents as an educator and childcare provider for over fifteen years. I have extensive international experience with youth advocacy and support programs and have worked closely LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC adolescents and their caregivers and families. I aim to continue to understand the unique challenges faced by these communities and have a passion for multicultural counseling.
In practice, I rely heavily on the notion that learning and growth cannot occur without safety and connection. I focus on building honest relationships with clients and have worked with children and adolescents as an educator and childcare provider for over fifteen years. I have extensive international experience with youth advocacy and support programs and have worked closely LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC adolescents and their caregivers and families. I aim to continue to understand the unique challenges faced by these communities and have a passion for multicultural counseling.
(540) 306-5389 View (540) 306-5389
Photo of Lawrence Franco, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lawrence Franco
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110
Navigating distress on your own can be difficult, overwhelming, and even insurmountable. Maybe you feel stuck, misunderstood, or even lost. Seeking guidance to help with this navigation may seem even more daunting. I open a door for you to explore this in a way that seeks to connect with you, your identity, and life experience. My approach is multi-dimensional, integrating a variety of techniques, customized to you. Each of us is unique in our own way and I will honor that through a multicultural lens. We can work together to make sense of what challenges you, through your own eyes & voice, to build long lasting feelings of courage.
Navigating distress on your own can be difficult, overwhelming, and even insurmountable. Maybe you feel stuck, misunderstood, or even lost. Seeking guidance to help with this navigation may seem even more daunting. I open a door for you to explore this in a way that seeks to connect with you, your identity, and life experience. My approach is multi-dimensional, integrating a variety of techniques, customized to you. Each of us is unique in our own way and I will honor that through a multicultural lens. We can work together to make sense of what challenges you, through your own eyes & voice, to build long lasting feelings of courage.
(571) 281-0338 View (571) 281-0338
Photo of Jennyfer Lim, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennyfer Lim
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
As an Asian-American woman, I am passionate about working with clients from a multicultural framework, recognizing and valuing the unique experiences of each individual. I try to bring a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances that come with navigating multiple cultural identities.
As an Asian-American woman, I am passionate about working with clients from a multicultural framework, recognizing and valuing the unique experiences of each individual. I try to bring a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances that come with navigating multiple cultural identities.
(571) 604-6485 View (571) 604-6485
Photo of Vanessa Quiroz, Pre-Licensed Professional
Vanessa Quiroz
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I do my best to filter each approach through a trauma informed and multicultural lens.
The only thing that is certain about life is change. Along with life can various transitions that can come with certain obstacles and challenges. Without the knowledge or tools how to navigate them, and most importantly, support, it can feel even more difficult. That’s where therapy can become a guiding light. My goal is to foster emotional well-being and personal growth with a holistic approach through a multicultural lens. That being said, there is no blanket statement and each client will be looked at individually for their unique strengths and abilities with a client-centered approach.
I do my best to filter each approach through a trauma informed and multicultural lens.
The only thing that is certain about life is change. Along with life can various transitions that can come with certain obstacles and challenges. Without the knowledge or tools how to navigate them, and most importantly, support, it can feel even more difficult. That’s where therapy can become a guiding light. My goal is to foster emotional well-being and personal growth with a holistic approach through a multicultural lens. That being said, there is no blanket statement and each client will be looked at individually for their unique strengths and abilities with a client-centered approach.
(571) 378-5793 View (571) 378-5793
Photo of Maria-Pilar Pina, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria-Pilar Pina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults in areas of expertise including but are not limited to: Holistic Somatic Psychotherapy, Sex-Positive, LGBTQIA+, Poly and Multicultural / BIPOC affirmative Therapy, helpful to problems including, depression, anxiety, trauma, isolation, grief, intimacy challenges and family relationship challenges.
I am honored to be trusted in all of my clients' lives. I believe that holding a safe therapeutic space supports individuals to address their emotional needs, allowing for the development of a deeper authentic relationship with self and others that they love, as well as reach their personal goals. My style of therapy is highly individualized and collaboratively designed with each client. This practice is based on the understanding that all identities and individuals deserve affirming and anti-oppressive care. I provide both short-term and long-term therapy in Virginia and DC.
I specialize in working with adults in areas of expertise including but are not limited to: Holistic Somatic Psychotherapy, Sex-Positive, LGBTQIA+, Poly and Multicultural / BIPOC affirmative Therapy, helpful to problems including, depression, anxiety, trauma, isolation, grief, intimacy challenges and family relationship challenges.
I am honored to be trusted in all of my clients' lives. I believe that holding a safe therapeutic space supports individuals to address their emotional needs, allowing for the development of a deeper authentic relationship with self and others that they love, as well as reach their personal goals. My style of therapy is highly individualized and collaboratively designed with each client. This practice is based on the understanding that all identities and individuals deserve affirming and anti-oppressive care. I provide both short-term and long-term therapy in Virginia and DC.
(571) 777-0120 View (571) 777-0120
Photo of Tali Elitzur, MA, LPC, LCPC, Counselor
Tali Elitzur
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 20301  (Online Only)
My approaches include: EMDR, trauma therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, multicultural, internal parts, CBT, and others.
Available for in-person and telehealth appointments. Relationships with ourselves and others can be tough, and they often affect our daily lives. Recent or past traumas may intensify challenging feelings, and can lead to feeling stuck, confused, or overwhelmed. You are not alone! Collaborative therapy can help establish a sense of clarity, balance, joy, and hope. Our work together is meant to carry over into your daily life, and help you feel more secure, connected, and assertive. We will process and practice applying new skills into your life. I provide a safe space and support as you navigate your life journey.
My approaches include: EMDR, trauma therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, multicultural, internal parts, CBT, and others.
Available for in-person and telehealth appointments. Relationships with ourselves and others can be tough, and they often affect our daily lives. Recent or past traumas may intensify challenging feelings, and can lead to feeling stuck, confused, or overwhelmed. You are not alone! Collaborative therapy can help establish a sense of clarity, balance, joy, and hope. Our work together is meant to carry over into your daily life, and help you feel more secure, connected, and assertive. We will process and practice applying new skills into your life. I provide a safe space and support as you navigate your life journey.
(240) 698-2546 View (240) 698-2546
Photo of Diana Bermudez, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana Bermudez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22207
Waitlist for new clients
I am bilingual (native Spanish) and experienced with the complexities of raising multicultural, and special needs children.
My mission is to strengthen the emotional wellbeing of young children (infants-10 years old), and their families and teachers who support them. I believe that developing the coping skills of the children, while improving the family relationships (and school environment when possible) decreases and prevents behavior challenges. I provide family psychotherapy and parent coaching, with a combination of art therapy, play therapy, yoga and mindfulness techniques, to engage family members of all ages.
I am bilingual (native Spanish) and experienced with the complexities of raising multicultural, and special needs children.
My mission is to strengthen the emotional wellbeing of young children (infants-10 years old), and their families and teachers who support them. I believe that developing the coping skills of the children, while improving the family relationships (and school environment when possible) decreases and prevents behavior challenges. I provide family psychotherapy and parent coaching, with a combination of art therapy, play therapy, yoga and mindfulness techniques, to engage family members of all ages.
(703) 782-8763 View (703) 782-8763
Photo of Jimmy Nguyen, MEd, LPC-R, NCC
Jimmy Nguyen
Resident in Counseling, MEd, LPC-R, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22312  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in international & multicultural identity, Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) issues, and the LGBTQ+ community. I am also familiar with transpersonal, spiritual, and near-death experiences (NDEs). I have helped clients with issues related to depression, anxiety, ADHD, identity, self-confidence, loneliness, self-acceptance, motivation, productivity, perfectionism, grief, interpersonal conflict, relationships, sex & intimacy issues, life transitions, trauma, distress tolerance, life meaning & purpose, and pressures from family/society. These are just some of the many things you can bring up in our sessions together.
I specialize in international & multicultural identity, Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) issues, and the LGBTQ+ community. I am also familiar with transpersonal, spiritual, and near-death experiences (NDEs). I have helped clients with issues related to depression, anxiety, ADHD, identity, self-confidence, loneliness, self-acceptance, motivation, productivity, perfectionism, grief, interpersonal conflict, relationships, sex & intimacy issues, life transitions, trauma, distress tolerance, life meaning & purpose, and pressures from family/society. These are just some of the many things you can bring up in our sessions together.
(571) 556-9810 View (571) 556-9810
Photo of Naoji Andrew Watson, PsyD, Psychologist
Naoji Andrew Watson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22102
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about helping individuals and families. I have lived in many states and in Okinawa, Japan, and in Virginia most recently. My diverse military and family background led me to undergraduate studies at The Pennsylvania State University, and doctoral degree in Psychology at Argosy University where I developed a special interest in multicultural competency and mental health treatment. I have over 15 years of clinical experience and find collaborative work essential with other mental and health professionals in order to provide the highest level of care in treating the whole person.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about helping individuals and families. I have lived in many states and in Okinawa, Japan, and in Virginia most recently. My diverse military and family background led me to undergraduate studies at The Pennsylvania State University, and doctoral degree in Psychology at Argosy University where I developed a special interest in multicultural competency and mental health treatment. I have over 15 years of clinical experience and find collaborative work essential with other mental and health professionals in order to provide the highest level of care in treating the whole person.
(703) 468-4547 View (703) 468-4547
Photo of Dan McDonald, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dan McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
Additionally, I have worked with many clients and couples from multicultural backgrounds who are first or second generation immigrants to the U.
I specialize in working with individuals who feel stuck, anxious, or depressed, and couples who are looking to improve their relationship. I help my individual clients overcome depression and anxiety, increase self-confidence, establish healthy relationships, increase career satisfaction, and heal from trauma. I help couples improve communication, increase understanding, and rebuild trust. I use a nonjudgmental, empathic approach, working calmly and collaboratively. I incorporate techniques from a variety of counseling models such as cognitive-behavioral, existential, family systems, and attachment theories.
Additionally, I have worked with many clients and couples from multicultural backgrounds who are first or second generation immigrants to the U.
I specialize in working with individuals who feel stuck, anxious, or depressed, and couples who are looking to improve their relationship. I help my individual clients overcome depression and anxiety, increase self-confidence, establish healthy relationships, increase career satisfaction, and heal from trauma. I help couples improve communication, increase understanding, and rebuild trust. I use a nonjudgmental, empathic approach, working calmly and collaboratively. I incorporate techniques from a variety of counseling models such as cognitive-behavioral, existential, family systems, and attachment theories.
(571) 777-0065 View (571) 777-0065
Photo of Apryl Sydnor, Pre-Licensed Professional
Apryl Sydnor
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I have over 18 years combined experience working in community mental health, therapeutic day settings and private practice. My professional journey includes individual, crisis and group counseling. Clients have represented different cultural groups with mental health concerns. Through my clinical experience, I have developed a particular interest in working with people experiencing concerns related to cultural identity, trauma and sexual violence, anxiety, and mood disturbances. I take a Multicultural, Gestalt, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Trauma Informed Care approach to increase awareness and enhance adaptive interpersonal skills.
I have over 18 years combined experience working in community mental health, therapeutic day settings and private practice. My professional journey includes individual, crisis and group counseling. Clients have represented different cultural groups with mental health concerns. Through my clinical experience, I have developed a particular interest in working with people experiencing concerns related to cultural identity, trauma and sexual violence, anxiety, and mood disturbances. I take a Multicultural, Gestalt, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Trauma Informed Care approach to increase awareness and enhance adaptive interpersonal skills.
(571) 200-3525 View (571) 200-3525
Photo of Eloise Martinek, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eloise Martinek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I uses my multicultural experiences and background of working with survivors of intimate partner violence and in inpatient mental health to create a holistic & safe therapeutic environment.
Are you hoping to find a sense of empowerment and happiness? I would love to be a part of your journey and enjoy empowering people in helping them processing their trauma. My approach is to create a safe, productive space where clients are able to feel empowered. I also ensures that there is no judgement and there is support and accountability. People deserve to feel in control of their emotions rather their emotions controlling them. I aim to assist clients in finding that balance to help them feel more at peace within their life.
I uses my multicultural experiences and background of working with survivors of intimate partner violence and in inpatient mental health to create a holistic & safe therapeutic environment.
Are you hoping to find a sense of empowerment and happiness? I would love to be a part of your journey and enjoy empowering people in helping them processing their trauma. My approach is to create a safe, productive space where clients are able to feel empowered. I also ensures that there is no judgement and there is support and accountability. People deserve to feel in control of their emotions rather their emotions controlling them. I aim to assist clients in finding that balance to help them feel more at peace within their life.
(804) 575-7096 View (804) 575-7096
Photo of Fran Singson, PC-R, CRC, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Fran Singson
Pre-Licensed Professional, PC-R, CRC, MS
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
This includes drawing from multicultural counseling theory, feminist theory, family systems, internal family systems, existentialism, and empowerment theory.
I specialize in providing counseling for racial identity and cultural issues (specifically in first and second Asian Americans/immigrants), navigating significant life transitions, and grief from a cultural perspective. My goal is to help you live a life that aligns with your values and move from a space of surviving to thriving. At the core of my approach is the belief that the therapeutic relationship is the strongest force in inciting growth. A sense of authentic trust and comfort is instrumental to begin doing "the work" and creating lasting change.
This includes drawing from multicultural counseling theory, feminist theory, family systems, internal family systems, existentialism, and empowerment theory.
I specialize in providing counseling for racial identity and cultural issues (specifically in first and second Asian Americans/immigrants), navigating significant life transitions, and grief from a cultural perspective. My goal is to help you live a life that aligns with your values and move from a space of surviving to thriving. At the core of my approach is the belief that the therapeutic relationship is the strongest force in inciting growth. A sense of authentic trust and comfort is instrumental to begin doing "the work" and creating lasting change.
(703) 952-3149 View (703) 952-3149
Photo of Kevin Richardson, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kevin Richardson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22209  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am also experienced in using a multicultural framework to explore various aspects of cultural identity, and integrating those identities into treatment.
Years ago, I visited Ghana where I was introduced to a symbol called the “Sankofa”. The Sankofa translates into “go back and fetch” and symbolizes the importance of looking to your past in order to reclaim the strength and wisdom that has been left behind. As a therapist this deeply resonates with me. Often pieces of our past may feel too painful or overwhelming to revisit. However, through my clients I've seen firsthand that even in some of the most challenging and traumatic experiences often lies perseverance, strength, and growth.
I am also experienced in using a multicultural framework to explore various aspects of cultural identity, and integrating those identities into treatment.
Years ago, I visited Ghana where I was introduced to a symbol called the “Sankofa”. The Sankofa translates into “go back and fetch” and symbolizes the importance of looking to your past in order to reclaim the strength and wisdom that has been left behind. As a therapist this deeply resonates with me. Often pieces of our past may feel too painful or overwhelming to revisit. However, through my clients I've seen firsthand that even in some of the most challenging and traumatic experiences often lies perseverance, strength, and growth.
(571) 520-8683 View (571) 520-8683
Photo of Dr. Sepideh Saiedi, PhD, LPC, Life, Coach, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Sepideh Saiedi
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, Life, Coach
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22209  (Online Only)
Growing up in a multicultural household and having lived in Europe, I worked with clients from many different cultural backgrounds, I have an appreciation for and understanding of the importance that culture plays in understanding emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.
As a Psychotherapist and a Certified Life Coach at Mental Health Strive, I provide compassionate, transformational, cognitive, energy, and integrative approaches for my clients' mental, emotional, relational, and life concerns. I specialize in treating adults overcome issues related to anxiety/worrying/fears, depression, sadness, stress, self-esteem/self-worth, rejection, codependency, imposter syndrome, guilt/shame, relationship struggles, adjustments, conflicts, trauma, and life transitions. I'm here to support you every step of the way.
Growing up in a multicultural household and having lived in Europe, I worked with clients from many different cultural backgrounds, I have an appreciation for and understanding of the importance that culture plays in understanding emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.
As a Psychotherapist and a Certified Life Coach at Mental Health Strive, I provide compassionate, transformational, cognitive, energy, and integrative approaches for my clients' mental, emotional, relational, and life concerns. I specialize in treating adults overcome issues related to anxiety/worrying/fears, depression, sadness, stress, self-esteem/self-worth, rejection, codependency, imposter syndrome, guilt/shame, relationship struggles, adjustments, conflicts, trauma, and life transitions. I'm here to support you every step of the way.
(703) 386-7314 View (703) 386-7314
Photo of Trevor Dunn, PhD, Psychologist
Trevor Dunn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22203
Dr. Dunn specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, OCD, depression, LGBTQ+ concerns, life transitions, relationship/interpersonal concerns, gender affirming treatment evaluations, grief/loss, identity concerns, and multicultural psychology (e.g., gender, sexuality, race/ethnicity). Trained as a counseling psychologist, he provides evidence-based, culturally centered therapy to adults in Washington DC, Virginia, and other PSYPACT states. Using warmth and empathy, he helps clients examine and reflect on their lives, and move in the direction of their goals and values.
Dr. Dunn specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, OCD, depression, LGBTQ+ concerns, life transitions, relationship/interpersonal concerns, gender affirming treatment evaluations, grief/loss, identity concerns, and multicultural psychology (e.g., gender, sexuality, race/ethnicity). Trained as a counseling psychologist, he provides evidence-based, culturally centered therapy to adults in Washington DC, Virginia, and other PSYPACT states. Using warmth and empathy, he helps clients examine and reflect on their lives, and move in the direction of their goals and values.
(703) 884-1802 View (703) 884-1802

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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.