Cultural Considerations When Searching for a Therapist

By: Maria Tina Ferraris-Castro, Associate Marriage and Family Therapist

As a Filipino American therapist, I want to provide a safe place for my clients who may be struggling with acculturation, generational trauma, and have difficulty feeling understood due to cultural differences and language barrier. I’m fluent in three Filipino dialects such as Tagalog, Ilonggo, and Cebuano. 

    I was raised with many cultural backgrounds. My parents come from Filipino, Spanish, Chinese, and Italian heritage. I was born in the Philippines and grew up in New York City. I went to a Chinese school in the Philippines from kindergarten to 5th grade. I learned to write and read in basic Chinese and the rest are all in English. I lived in New York City till I was 17 years old. I moved back to the Philippines at 17 and graduated at an International School for high school. I was exposed to many other nationalities, cultures, and customs while I was at the International School. I learned the Cebuano dialect while I was in dental school in Cebu City, Philippines. I learned Tagalog from my friends that came from Manila,  and I learned Ilonggo dialect from my parents. 

When you come to me for therapy, I want you to be able to express yourself in a way that you feel most comfortable. I am here to listen to you, to see your pain and struggles, and to support you without judgement.

Here are some tips when searching for a therapist that can understand you and your cultural background:

1. Look for a therapist that can speak your language or dialect.

2. Ask yourself if the therapist that you’re looking for can understand your cultural background and upbringing, the values you believe in, and cultural experiences.

3. Think of your goals for therapy and what type of therapist can best serve you.

4. Ask your therapist questions to get an idea if he/she can empathize with you and your cultural struggles.

5. Look for a therapist that can understand the family dynamics and traditions that are similar to your culture.

6. Look for a therapist that understands the non-verbal cultural nuances without you having to struggle to explain it.

The last but certainly not the least, look for a therapist that you can trust and feel connected. Finding the right therapist can make a difference with your healing journey.