Culturally Competent Counselling for Everyone

Culturally competent therapy = an approach in which therapists acknowledge the importance of understanding a client’s cultural, racial, and social background, actively respecting and working with their unique identity, values, and experiences. This approach tailors therapy to fit the client’s cultural context, ensuring the most relevant and effective care. 

Anti-oppressive practice = an approach that seeks to challenge and address the power imbalances and inequalities that exist within society. It involves actively working against systems of oppression and aiming to mitigate the effects of oppression. 

We recognise that each individual’s identity is shaped by a multitude of factors, including their ethnicity, language, faith, migration history, and other social determinants. These factors influence not only their worldview but also their experiences, challenges, and strengths. Our therapists work with an approach that is inclusive and considers these factors to help our clients understand and navigate their lived experiences.

This model takes into account the psychological impact of being part of a particular cultural group and how that interacts with the societal norms they may face. Our approach also recognises the diversity within cultural groups themselves, such as the differences between ethnicities, nationalities, generations, and personal experiences within a given cultural context. 

Our commitment to cultural competence is not an afterthought or an additional service, it's part of how we work. All our counsellors receive training and supervision in culturally competent, anti-oppressive therapy. This includes an understanding of cultural, racial, and socio-economic diversity and its impact on mental health. It’s not just about being aware of a client’s cultural background; it’s about integrating this awareness into every aspect of the therapeutic process, from referral and assessment to every counselling session.