The Importance of Multicultural Identity in Counseling
Whether aware of it or not, we all have a cultural identity. Our cultural identities influence how we view and interact with the world around us and how others view and interact with us. This identity follows us everywhere we go, and that includes the counseling relationship. A therapist’s ability to recognize their client’s multicultural identity, reflect on their own, and consider how it may impact the counseling relationship can make or break the therapeutic alliance.
Despite graduate programs including classes on multicultural considerations, not all therapists apply practices that make space for discussions of cultural identity or consider how it influences an individual’s experience of the world and of therapy. Oftentimes, we can become insulated in our own culture and unaware of differences. This is called cultural encapsulation and can lead to biases standing in the way of seeing others holistically. Mental health issues do not exist in a vacuum, and our cultural identities affect not only how we perceive mental health but also how we treat it.
What is culture?
We all are steeped in culture though privilege may allow some individuals to not think about it as much as others who experience micro- and macro-aggressions daily. Culture encompasses the beliefs, values, social norms, and traditions of a particular group. It can include religion, art, music, clothing, language, mannerisms, food, and how we view relationships. Some things that are deemed “normal” in one culture may be “taboo” in another.
What is cultural identity?
Cultural identity, on the other hand, is an individual’s sense of belonging to a certain social group. These groups may include race and ethnicity, sexual and affectional orientation, gender identity and expression, religion and spirituality, socioeconomic status, education, language, ability, region, body type and physical appearance, age, hobbies, occupation, and more. Cultural identity evolves and shifts over time, and multiple identities exist together to create wonderfully unique individuals. Of course, these intersections of identity can lead to conflict, especially for individuals existing in multiple groups whose values may clash.
How does multicultural identity show up in counseling?
Our cultural identities show up everywhere, including in what is often labeled as a safe and nonjudgmental space - the counseling room. We all have biases, including clinicians themselves, and that’s why self-awareness and reflection is so important. Therapists who haven’t taken time to reflect on their own cultural identity may make assumptions about others and apply universal themes or treatment practices to the nuanced experiences of their clients. Multicultural identities can show up in counseling in many ways, including but not limited to how we show emotions (gender identity, cultural norms, etc.), what coping tools we use (spirituality/religion, collective care, etc.), how emotions manifest in our bodies, whether or not we feel comfortable with our therapist, and in our own lived experiences that we are bringing to the room.
What issues related to multicultural identity can I work through in therapy?
Some issues linked to multicultural identity include identity development, stress, self-esteem, generational trauma, intergenerational conflict, race-based trauma, couples + family issues, interpersonal conflict, grief, immigration + acculturation, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders.
The therapeutic relationship is one of the greatest predictors of successful therapy, so it is important to find a therapist you connect with and who values your identity. It is essential to feel that all parts of you are seen and that you are welcome. Here are some questions to consider when looking for a therapist:
Are they affirming of your identities (LGBTQIA+, antiracist, feminist, anti-diet, anti-fatphobic, etc.)?
Do they identify with or have an understanding of your pieces of your cultural identity?
Is their office space accessible? Do they offer virtual sessions? Do they have gender-neutral restrooms?
How do they incorporate antiracism and advocacy into their work?
Do they challenge their cultural biases? Are they aware of privilege and the intersectionality of identities?
If you’d like to explore whether working together would be the right fit, fill out my contact form and I’ll be in touch to schedule a free 20-minute consultation call!