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 

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...

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...

Rui Lu, PMHNP-BC

Houston

Texas

At One Behavioral, I treat a variety of patients that include ages 18 and up and all socioeconomic ranges. Between our five locations, I aim to provide our patients with whatever they may need through our outpatient programs.