Culturally Sensitive Therapists in Mercer Island, WA

Photo of Gustavo A Parra, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gustavo A Parra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate, culturally sensitive, solution-oriented mental health professional. I am dedicated to providing exceptional care and implementing effective treatment plans for individuals, couples and families. With an inherent ability to manage different types of personalities I am able to diffuse stressful situations to proactively resolve issues and meet challenging goals and objectives. As a client-oriented therapist I possess the innate ability to establish a genuine rapport and build the necessary trust for a solid client/therapist relationship. It is my belief that engaging communication and client advocacy can provide the motivation for growth and change.
I am a compassionate, culturally sensitive, solution-oriented mental health professional. I am dedicated to providing exceptional care and implementing effective treatment plans for individuals, couples and families. With an inherent ability to manage different types of personalities I am able to diffuse stressful situations to proactively resolve issues and meet challenging goals and objectives. As a client-oriented therapist I possess the innate ability to establish a genuine rapport and build the necessary trust for a solid client/therapist relationship. It is my belief that engaging communication and client advocacy can provide the motivation for growth and change.
(855) 759-4904 View (855) 759-4904
Photo of Kaya Wynn, MEd, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaya Wynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040
Over time we develop patterns of behavior that may have once supported us through a difficult time, but these ways of being may be hurting our ability to connect with loved ones or form new connections. Through our work together, we will reflect on how your past experiences may influence who you are today and identify interventions to support you in connecting with who you want to become. In addition to working with individuals, I enjoy supporting people better engage in the important relationships in their lives; this may be within a couple, but can also be in a parent-child relationship.
Over time we develop patterns of behavior that may have once supported us through a difficult time, but these ways of being may be hurting our ability to connect with loved ones or form new connections. Through our work together, we will reflect on how your past experiences may influence who you are today and identify interventions to support you in connecting with who you want to become. In addition to working with individuals, I enjoy supporting people better engage in the important relationships in their lives; this may be within a couple, but can also be in a parent-child relationship.
(206) 486-0791 View (206) 486-0791
Photo of Renee Kubota, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Kubota
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040  (Online Only)
With a therapeutic style that is gentle, warm, relational, strengths-based and informed by values of compassion and anti-oppression, I collaborate with clients as they move towards their goals and desires. The clients I work with are often learning to cultivate healthy relationships, healing trauma, tending to anxiety, depression and neurodivergence (often late-diagnosed ADHD and/or autism), exploring identity (racial, gender, sexual etc.), holding grief, and cultivating a stronger sense of self-worth. If you would like to learn more, I would be happy to schedule a free consultation call!
With a therapeutic style that is gentle, warm, relational, strengths-based and informed by values of compassion and anti-oppression, I collaborate with clients as they move towards their goals and desires. The clients I work with are often learning to cultivate healthy relationships, healing trauma, tending to anxiety, depression and neurodivergence (often late-diagnosed ADHD and/or autism), exploring identity (racial, gender, sexual etc.), holding grief, and cultivating a stronger sense of self-worth. If you would like to learn more, I would be happy to schedule a free consultation call!
(206) 339-9089 View (206) 339-9089
Photo of Aude Geltzer, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Aude Geltzer
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040  (Online Only)
My clients are adults who have difficulties with anxiety (OCD, phobias, generalized anxiety, social anxiety), depression, low self-esteem, and other behavioral difficulties. If you are feeling stuck and don't know what else to do, we can work together to help you overcome your current challenges.
My clients are adults who have difficulties with anxiety (OCD, phobias, generalized anxiety, social anxiety), depression, low self-esteem, and other behavioral difficulties. If you are feeling stuck and don't know what else to do, we can work together to help you overcome your current challenges.
(206) 538-2485 View (206) 538-2485
Photo of Steve Andrews, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Steve Andrews
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040
Hi. I believe couples and individuals have more stacked against their thriving than ever before. Technology inundates us with messages that create unreasonable expectations and stress around personal relationships, parenting, living, and mental health. If modern life sometimes leaves you feeling unfulfilled, confused or anxious, you’re in good company. Most folks go to therapy for a simple reason: they want a smoother life. While I don’t promise to make life easier, I do create a supportive environment focussed on helping you develop tools to overcome relationship and behavioral patterns that might be holding you back.
Hi. I believe couples and individuals have more stacked against their thriving than ever before. Technology inundates us with messages that create unreasonable expectations and stress around personal relationships, parenting, living, and mental health. If modern life sometimes leaves you feeling unfulfilled, confused or anxious, you’re in good company. Most folks go to therapy for a simple reason: they want a smoother life. While I don’t promise to make life easier, I do create a supportive environment focussed on helping you develop tools to overcome relationship and behavioral patterns that might be holding you back.
(206) 535-1701 View (206) 535-1701
Photo of Malka Maizel, PhD, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Malka Maizel
Counselor, PhD, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040
Does your child seem depressed, anxious, hostile or irritable? Is he or she underachieving or misbehaving at school? Are you having power struggles at home? Is divorce stressing your family? You are doing the best you can, however, you need more guidance and support to improve your family's life? I'm here for you. I'll teach you and your child effective coping skills to reduce stress and increase well being and happiness in your family. I will coach you how to be both firm and kind so that you are an effective parent who feels empowered and hopeful.
Does your child seem depressed, anxious, hostile or irritable? Is he or she underachieving or misbehaving at school? Are you having power struggles at home? Is divorce stressing your family? You are doing the best you can, however, you need more guidance and support to improve your family's life? I'm here for you. I'll teach you and your child effective coping skills to reduce stress and increase well being and happiness in your family. I will coach you how to be both firm and kind so that you are an effective parent who feels empowered and hopeful.
(206) 745-5870 View (206) 745-5870
Photo of Lahaji Thomas- L J T Therapeutics, LMSW, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lahaji Thomas- L J T Therapeutics
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040  (Online Only)
Life, Peace, Wealth, and Health. You deserve it. I support individuals who may be navigating life's complexities with a desire for growth and healing. You may face challenges like anxiety, depression, financial instability, or life transitions. Seeking empathy and understanding, you value a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your emotions and gain insight. Committed to personal development, you aspire to cultivate resilience, improve relationships, and achieve emotional well-being through collaborative therapeutic support.
Life, Peace, Wealth, and Health. You deserve it. I support individuals who may be navigating life's complexities with a desire for growth and healing. You may face challenges like anxiety, depression, financial instability, or life transitions. Seeking empathy and understanding, you value a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your emotions and gain insight. Committed to personal development, you aspire to cultivate resilience, improve relationships, and achieve emotional well-being through collaborative therapeutic support.
(206) 312-2271 View (206) 312-2271
Photo of Rebecca Kushins - Online Therapist (She-Hers), MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Kushins - Online Therapist (She-Hers)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040  (Online Only)
Internal Family Systems (IFS) - Level 2 Trained. You’ve tried a lot of things to help yourself - mindfulness, meditation, yoga, exercise and more. You are relieved for a time, until it all comes back, sometimes worse than before. On the outside, you pride yourself on being an intelligent person, a strong individual, a committed worker, a loyal friend. Perhaps you identify as a member of the LBGTQ+ community. Yet these days you find yourself spinning inside. You can’t shake these feelings of being out of control. Sometimes your behavior really is.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) - Level 2 Trained. You’ve tried a lot of things to help yourself - mindfulness, meditation, yoga, exercise and more. You are relieved for a time, until it all comes back, sometimes worse than before. On the outside, you pride yourself on being an intelligent person, a strong individual, a committed worker, a loyal friend. Perhaps you identify as a member of the LBGTQ+ community. Yet these days you find yourself spinning inside. You can’t shake these feelings of being out of control. Sometimes your behavior really is.
(508) 413-6406 View (508) 413-6406
Photo of Susan MacLeod Carey, MA, MSEd, MS, PhD, PLLC, Psychologist
Susan MacLeod Carey
Psychologist, MA, MSEd, MS, PhD, PLLC
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040
With a background in education, life certificate in school psychology and neuropsychology and training at the University of Washington Medical Center and Children's Hospital Los Angeles, I work with all ages 6-96. My unique interests include Non Verbal Learning Differences and family interventions that assist for a lifetime. Creativity, science, and disciplined application are the tools in a cognitive behavioral, object relations approach that moves the client forward with responsibility, boundaries, and wise choices.
With a background in education, life certificate in school psychology and neuropsychology and training at the University of Washington Medical Center and Children's Hospital Los Angeles, I work with all ages 6-96. My unique interests include Non Verbal Learning Differences and family interventions that assist for a lifetime. Creativity, science, and disciplined application are the tools in a cognitive behavioral, object relations approach that moves the client forward with responsibility, boundaries, and wise choices.
(206) 203-1397 View (206) 203-1397
Photo of Chris Byers, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Chris Byers
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040
Healing, growth, and change. Are you wondering if these common outcomes of therapy are actually possible for you, or if therapy works at all? Maybe you have a different set of questions. Can someone really help me overcome this dark depression or intense anxiety? Am I the only one feeling like this? Can our relationship rebound after this betrayal? What's wrong with me/him/her/us? Will I ever be free of this addiction? Why can't they just be happy for me? Questions like these are worthy to ask and it takes courage to seek the answers.
Healing, growth, and change. Are you wondering if these common outcomes of therapy are actually possible for you, or if therapy works at all? Maybe you have a different set of questions. Can someone really help me overcome this dark depression or intense anxiety? Am I the only one feeling like this? Can our relationship rebound after this betrayal? What's wrong with me/him/her/us? Will I ever be free of this addiction? Why can't they just be happy for me? Questions like these are worthy to ask and it takes courage to seek the answers.
(425) 409-9002 View (425) 409-9002
Photo of Nancy Tung - Nancy Tung RN - Practice for Systemic Wellness, RN
Nancy Tung RN - Practice for Systemic Wellness
RN
Not Verified Not Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040
Are working on the same issues and going in circles? Are you in transition and feeling lost? Are you blaming yourself for not been able to reach your goals? Do you want to have clarity and confidence to move forward? Do you want someone who is an experienced coach to guide you through your life journey with ease and grace? If any of these statements resonate with you, contact Nancy!
Are working on the same issues and going in circles? Are you in transition and feeling lost? Are you blaming yourself for not been able to reach your goals? Do you want to have clarity and confidence to move forward? Do you want someone who is an experienced coach to guide you through your life journey with ease and grace? If any of these statements resonate with you, contact Nancy!
(360) 641-7144 View (360) 641-7144
Photo of Patrice Janda, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patrice Janda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040
One trend I've noticed is the high percentage of truly unique and sensitive people who walk through my door. It seems some of the finest folks wind up getting lost in this world, not because they have less of an internal compass, but ironically because they have more. In a culture that prizes quick solutions and uniformity, having a voice of one's own, ideas of one's own, puts the complex and innovative individual at increased risk for mental distress. Living out loud is psychologically expensive; together we will work so you can afford to be heard.
One trend I've noticed is the high percentage of truly unique and sensitive people who walk through my door. It seems some of the finest folks wind up getting lost in this world, not because they have less of an internal compass, but ironically because they have more. In a culture that prizes quick solutions and uniformity, having a voice of one's own, ideas of one's own, puts the complex and innovative individual at increased risk for mental distress. Living out loud is psychologically expensive; together we will work so you can afford to be heard.
(206) 317-1973 View (206) 317-1973
Photo of Veronica Anderson - Golden West Counseling, PLLC, MA, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor
Golden West Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040
Do you find yourself spending too much of your time feeling overwhelmed and struggle to control your stress and tension? Maybe you find yourself tired but yet can’t seem to calm down enough to relax at the end of the day. Or maybe the constant self doubt and future thinking has you paralyzed. Managing the effects of constant worry impacts various aspects of your life including work performance, academic achievement, social relationships, and overall quality of life. Navigating these challenges requires a comprehensive approach to address both the mental and physical aspects of your concerns.
Do you find yourself spending too much of your time feeling overwhelmed and struggle to control your stress and tension? Maybe you find yourself tired but yet can’t seem to calm down enough to relax at the end of the day. Or maybe the constant self doubt and future thinking has you paralyzed. Managing the effects of constant worry impacts various aspects of your life including work performance, academic achievement, social relationships, and overall quality of life. Navigating these challenges requires a comprehensive approach to address both the mental and physical aspects of your concerns.
(206) 257-3810 View (206) 257-3810
Photo of Janelle Painter, PhD, Psychologist
Janelle Painter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 15 years of experience providing individual and group therapy services to adults (in-person and telehealth sessions). I approach therapy from the perspective that you are the expert of your experiences and I am a resource to help you effectively navigate your life. We will work together to identify treatment targets and develop a plan for care. The focus of our sessions and the skills we discuss will be guided by your personal wellness goals. Aspects of your past, personal identities, culture, and values give light to current experiences and are discussed throughout therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 15 years of experience providing individual and group therapy services to adults (in-person and telehealth sessions). I approach therapy from the perspective that you are the expert of your experiences and I am a resource to help you effectively navigate your life. We will work together to identify treatment targets and develop a plan for care. The focus of our sessions and the skills we discuss will be guided by your personal wellness goals. Aspects of your past, personal identities, culture, and values give light to current experiences and are discussed throughout therapy.
(206) 207-4980 View (206) 207-4980
Photo of Alina Olaru, MA, LMHCA
Alina Olaru
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040
As a long-time teacher, I love the energy that children and teens bring to their world. When changes in the family or challenges in the child or teen's social or academic world arise, difficult emotions and related behaviors can be a problem. No matter what age, children, teens, and even parents are always learning and need support to manage those challenges.
As a long-time teacher, I love the energy that children and teens bring to their world. When changes in the family or challenges in the child or teen's social or academic world arise, difficult emotions and related behaviors can be a problem. No matter what age, children, teens, and even parents are always learning and need support to manage those challenges.
(425) 278-9184 View (425) 278-9184
Photo of Dana Falk, PhD, Psychologist
Dana Falk
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040
Bring gritty emotional honesty, a kind, sharp eye for themes in your life and your sense of humor. We'll work to understand nuances of your unique situation, utilize insights from your relationship history and symptoms and experiment with patterns that hold you back. I love to help mid-life adults with life transitions. My French Bulldog joins us! (We are both GLBTQ+ friendly.) Most people get stuck analyzing problems and are slow to take action OR they leap to action before gaining insight. I'll help you strike the right balance, so you create lasting change.
Bring gritty emotional honesty, a kind, sharp eye for themes in your life and your sense of humor. We'll work to understand nuances of your unique situation, utilize insights from your relationship history and symptoms and experiment with patterns that hold you back. I love to help mid-life adults with life transitions. My French Bulldog joins us! (We are both GLBTQ+ friendly.) Most people get stuck analyzing problems and are slow to take action OR they leap to action before gaining insight. I'll help you strike the right balance, so you create lasting change.
(206) 926-3866 View (206) 926-3866
Photo of Sarah Sterling - Sarah Sterling, Mindfulness-Based Counseling, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Sterling, Mindfulness-Based Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040  (Online Only)
As a mindfulness-based counselor, I help individuals, adolescents and couples transform their struggles into opportunities for growth, learning and adventure. I help you turn your problems into pathways. This journey is an opportunity to unearth the home that is your deep and abiding sense of self. Drawing on nature wisdom, archetypal patterns, myth, mindfulness and the mind-body connection, I am here to be a guide as you dive into your own depths. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey toward wholeness, freedom and purpose.
As a mindfulness-based counselor, I help individuals, adolescents and couples transform their struggles into opportunities for growth, learning and adventure. I help you turn your problems into pathways. This journey is an opportunity to unearth the home that is your deep and abiding sense of self. Drawing on nature wisdom, archetypal patterns, myth, mindfulness and the mind-body connection, I am here to be a guide as you dive into your own depths. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey toward wholeness, freedom and purpose.
(360) 215-2512 View (360) 215-2512
Photo of Laura Falsgraf, MA, LMHC, CMHS, Counselor
Laura Falsgraf
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040
Whether you are seeking counseling for the first time or seeking a new clinician, you have already taken steps towards positive change. I have been providing counseling support to children, adolescents, adults and their families for over 26 years. My mission is to provide a safe environment, in which you can grow and come to understand and know yourself more deeply. I seek to help you find ways to relieve the emotional stressors around your struggles.
Whether you are seeking counseling for the first time or seeking a new clinician, you have already taken steps towards positive change. I have been providing counseling support to children, adolescents, adults and their families for over 26 years. My mission is to provide a safe environment, in which you can grow and come to understand and know yourself more deeply. I seek to help you find ways to relieve the emotional stressors around your struggles.
(253) 447-6861 View (253) 447-6861
Photo of Suzanne Doyle, MA-MFT, Counselor
Suzanne Doyle
Counselor, MA-MFT
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! My ideal clients seek personal growth, struggle with self-doubt, stress, and coping skills. Therapy, based on trust and individualized treatment, empowers them to discover inner strengths. I use a systemic, solution-focused, emotion-focused, and strength-based approach, believing in their ability to achieve lasting changes. Guided by their expertise, we navigate their journey, fostering meaningful and lasting transformation.
Accepting New Clients! My ideal clients seek personal growth, struggle with self-doubt, stress, and coping skills. Therapy, based on trust and individualized treatment, empowers them to discover inner strengths. I use a systemic, solution-focused, emotion-focused, and strength-based approach, believing in their ability to achieve lasting changes. Guided by their expertise, we navigate their journey, fostering meaningful and lasting transformation.
(206) 888-4894 View (206) 888-4894
Photo of Matthew J Bennett, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Matthew J Bennett
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mercer Island, WA 98040  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist. Passion for my work, empathy, and excellence in clinical training (several years at University of Pennsylvania) allow me to provide effective, lasting results. I use an integrative, eclectic approach combining psychodynamic and interpersonal therapies to help adolescents and adults gain insight and work through varied life concerns. I see symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and relationship conflict as opportunities for change and personal growth.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist. Passion for my work, empathy, and excellence in clinical training (several years at University of Pennsylvania) allow me to provide effective, lasting results. I use an integrative, eclectic approach combining psychodynamic and interpersonal therapies to help adolescents and adults gain insight and work through varied life concerns. I see symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and relationship conflict as opportunities for change and personal growth.
(425) 374-4661 View (425) 374-4661
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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.