What is Multicultural Psychotherapy?

Cross-cultural psychotherapy, multicultural therapy, or culturally-responsive therapy is not what is done in therapy, but rather how it is done.

It is no secret that the field of psychology and psychotherapy as we know it today has been heavily shaped by Western cultures, developed by and for a monogenous cultural experience, which is the American and Western European cultures. But what happens when not everyone has that same worldview? Or when that view fails to capture the nuances and diverse needs of people? Many BIPOC individuals, immigrants, and children of immigrants find that generic therapy doesn't capture or honor their experiences.

Feeling Misunderstood in Therapy

You might have had concerns about feeling misunderstood in therapy, judged for your family or cultural choices, or quickly advised to cut people out of your life in the name of "boundaries."

While therapy is a process that is very unique for each person, a culturally-responsive practice would prioritize understanding your worldview, your values, and your lived experiences.

It prioritizes awareness of the different factors affecting your identity, such as:

• Race

• Religious beliefs

• Nationality

• Country of origin

• Gender identity

• Language

• Values

Cross-cultural psychotherapy also acknowledges generational trauma and resilience, giving attention to the different patterns, attitudes, and beliefs that might shape the client’s world.

Recognizing Intra-Cultural Differences

An important aspect of cross-cultural therapy is realizing intra-cultural differences.

Simply put, not everyone who is part of a specific background or identity holds the same beliefs and values, and assuming this often leads to making assumptions and stereotypes.

The Role of Language in Therapy

Finally, a truly culturally-responsive practice acknowledges that language shapes the person’s understanding and expression of thoughts and emotions, and ideally connects clients with therapists who speak their language, literally and metaphorically.