Finding a Culturally Relevant Therapist
Long before I was a psychologist, my understanding of mental health in the context of being an Asian American had been complex. The idea that mental health is a problem for many cultures goes against the grain of their being. It is a stigma to have a mental illness. They suffer in silence, until they have a mental health crisis. They could end up requiring hospitalization or even worse, a welfare check from the police that does not always end well.
Mistrust and Fear
For those of us with marginalized identities, the field of psychology may prompt feelings of mistrust and fear. This fear and the stigma attached to mental health are the reasons why Asian Americans seek mental health care at a lower rate than the rest of the population. Why would you share your secrets with someone you do not know? I’ve heard this question from many older Asian Americans. Why don’t you talk to your friends and family? As a psychologist and Asian American I strongly believe that mental health care is vital for our community’s relationships, parenting, health and advocacy. If we do not seek mental healthcare to develop better coping skills, understand our emotions more effectively, and heal from our past pain and trauma, we are at risk for living reactive and dissatisfied lives where we constantly wonder, “Will this ever get better?”
Finding a Culturally-Relevant Therapist
So how do you find a therapist who understands you as a person of color or Asian American? These are the factors I encourage friends, clients, and others to consider when looking for a therapist.
Cost
The cost of therapy ranges depending on the level of training, experience, and whether they accept insurance. Consider how much money you are willing to invest before you begin your search. I tell my clients that therapy shouldn’t be stressful if the cost is too high. Insurance can help reduce costs for many therapists. Some therapists are not in network but can provide paperwork for insurance reimbursement. Consider all of your options if you have behavioral health benefits in your insurance plan.
Location
For many mental health professionals, we are only able to see clients who reside in the states where we are licensed. You can check if they are licensed professionals by asking them for their license number. My psychologist license, for example, would be verified by the Texas State Behavioral Health Executive Council. The second step would be to find a provider who is licensed to practice in your state and fits your financial needs.
Clinical expertise
Many mental health professionals have specializations or niches in which they serve. Some mental health professionals may specialize in a specific clinical disorder, such as eating disorders. Others may concentrate on a particular population. These are usually available on the practice website. It is important that you find a clinician who is appropriately trained to work with the issues that you hope to address in therapy.
Cultural reverence and skill
This is a crucial element for people of color or other marginalized identities (differing abilities, neurodiversity, LGBTQ+, etc). A sense of safety is one of the most crucial factors in therapy. If you are a person who is of color, and your therapist doesn’t understand or acknowledge racism as a factor in your mental health, it may be a barrier to their work with your. As a person who is of color, it’s important to seek out mental healthcare providers that are sensitive to cultural nuances and systemic racism. They should also have examined their own biases which could impact therapy. As a therapist we also need to be aware of possible power dynamics and privileges that could impact our therapeutic relationship with clients. Asking. I encourage clients to ask for a free phone consultation. I welcome any questions my clients may have during this initial phone consultation. What type of research have you done to better understand your own biases and prejudices? What are your strategies for keeping those biases in check?
Does it matter if you’ve worked with Asian Americans before?
Does it matter if you’ve had experience working with transgender people? If not, how do you address this professionally in your work?
Relational fit
- Some therapists who are a perfect fit on all of the parameters mentioned above may still not be a good fit for you. Every therapist will have a unique style and approach. It is perfectly acceptable to request a referral or change therapists if you feel uncomfortable, unsafe or unheard after your first few sessions. I tell all new clients that therapy is right for them. You need to seriously consider whether you want to continue therapy or stop once there is no added benefit. It is important to pay attention to how you feel with your therapist. This will help you heal and grow. Your Journey
- I’m hoping this article offers a simple way to find a therapist, and helps dispel some myths about mental health. You may want to start by searching for a therapist who understands your culture, but ultimately, therapy is about having a relationship with someone who will be nonjudgmental and empathic and willing to go through the journey with you. They may also teach you skills that you can practice. It is up to you where you want to go in your journey.
