What is Culturally Sensitive Therapy?

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Culturally Sensitive Therapy emphasizes people’s various ethnic and cultural backgrounds within the therapeutic relationship.

Some approaches to therapy aim to treat every client the same — utilizing similar techniques, ways of communicating, and explanations of concepts. These therapists understand the importance of different cultures and recognize that these differences can impact the way someone experiences therapy. By bringing these experiences to the forefront of therapy, your therapist will validate your unique background and use it to work on your strengths and propel you toward your goals.

Your therapist will have foundational knowledge about your specific ethnic, cultural, and linguistic differences. They also will continue learning more about how your culture affects your life experiences.

Culturally Sensitive Therapy’s goal is to make you feel more comfortable and understood, not only when it comes to culture and ethnicity, but also religion, race, age, ability, gender, sexual orientation, and beliefs.

Your therapist will employ counseling techniques to help you on your healing journey. They also will serve as an advocate for your particular identities in the community by connecting you to culturally-sensitive resources. Ultimately, the therapy should make you feel comfortable and understood. When the therapeutic space is safer, you will be more likely to benefit from the process.

Therapists Who Specialize in Using Culturally Sensitive Therapy 

Jason Darden, MSN, PMHNP-BC

Charlotte

North Carolina

As a PMHNP-BC my treatment methodology typically involves a comprehensive approach that addresses the biological, psychological, social, and cultural aspects of mental health. Here's an overview tailored to our practice: Collaborative Goal Setting, Medication Management, Assessment and Diagnosis, Patient Education and Empowerment, Evidence-based Practice, Self-Care and Professional Developmen...

Lisa Curtain, PMHNP-BC

Boston

Massachusetts

My treatment philosophy centers around providing personalized and compassionate care to individuals struggling with mental health challenges. I believe in taking a holistic approach that considers the unique needs and experiences of each client. By fostering a collaborative and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship, I aim to empower individuals to explore their strengths, overcome obstacles, a...
In our work together, we get to the problems as quickly as possible so you can take control of your behavior faster. Time is the enemy of treatment — the more you engage in unhealthy behaviors, the more difficult it becomes to break those patterns and pathologies. The sooner you get help, the better, and I am here to be as directive and empowering as possible so you can get well enough to live ...

Asia Todd, PMHNP-BC

Rochester

New York

I enjoy working with clients to intimately understand their mental health needs and life goals. Identifying external factors that negatively impact their mental health in combination with medication, when appropriate. Treatment planning includes goal setting, identifying resources for success, and psychoeducation.
As a psychiatric provider, I approach patient care with empathy, compassion, and a commitment to personalized treatment. I believe in taking a holistic approach to mental health and value building trusting and collaborative relationships with my patients, where open communication and mutual respect are paramount. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space.
Your health and well-being are at the heart of everything I do, and I look forward to supporting you on your journey to better mental health and overall wellness. I’m licensed to provide care in Minnesota, California, Arizona, Florida, New York, Massachusets & Illinois. We can meet conveniently via secure, HIPAA-compliant video sessions in the time and place that works best for you.