Finding a Counselor Who Understands Your Cultural Background

Choosing a counselor is a deeply important decision. For clients seeking a professional mental health provider who understands cultural nuances, it may be confusing — even frustrating — to determine if a potential counselor is familiar with issues that affect them. Like any other personal decision that can have considerable effects on your life, practicing due diligence becomes paramount when searching for a counselor that fits your needs. 

Counselors Are Prepared to Serve Diverse Cultural Communities

Your unique culture and experiences may factor in your triumphs, challenges and overall wellbeing. Licensed professional counselors work to learn about who you are and where you’re coming from to see your challenges from your perspective. They are expected to provide care that is culturally inclusive for all clients, in accordance with ethical and professional standards. 

Counselors are also encouraged to participate in continuous career development and continuing education to remain informed, knowledgeable and aware of the unique issues their clients are experiencing, especially those from underrepresented and marginalized populations. They are trained to prioritize the individuality of their clients and to strive to meet them where they are currently in their lives.

A culture-centered approach enables counselors to understand diversity and multiculturalism along with the issues that clients from these backgrounds may face. The counseling relationship therefore involves a client’s lived experiences that can include their families’ and even other types of lived experiences. As a potential client, it would be helpful to know if a professional counselor incorporates culture-centered counseling into their work.

How to Search for a Culturally Competent Counselor

ACA’s resources includes a mental health providers directory with searchable listings of licensed professional counselors, including counselors who focus on providing care for people in marginalized communities. A primary care physician can also provide referrals for a counselor. 

Deciding to work with a counselor is an important step in strengthening your mental health. Taking the time to find a counselor who understands your cultural background can help ensure that your mental health journey is both affirming and effective.