Steps to Finding a Culturally Competent Counselor

Let’s be real—therapy is an incredibly personal journey and finding the right counselor makes all the difference.

It’s even more important if you want a therapist who understands and respects your cultural background.

For a lot of us, culture shapes the way we see the world, and it impacts everything from how we deal with stress to how we experience joy. So, having a counselor who “gets it” can make therapy feel like a safe space where you can fully be yourself.

If you're trying to find a culturally competent counselor, we ’ve got some advice to help you along the way.

1. Know What You’re Looking For

Before starting the search, it helps to reflect on what’s important in a therapist.

Is it someone who shares the same cultural background, or just someone who has experience working with people from similar communities? 

For example, if you’re Black, Asian, Indigenous, or from another marginalized community, it might be important to find someone who can truly understand your lived experiences.

But it’s not just about race or ethnicity.—maybe you want a therapist who is LGBTQ+ affirming or experienced in working with immigrants.

Whatever it is, knowing your own priorities is key. The goal is to find someone who aligns with those priorities and understands the cultural nuances that might affect the therapeutic process. 

2. Research.

Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to start researching. There are some great directories out there that can point you toward culturally competent therapists.

Checking therapist websites for mentions of working with diverse populations or communities can also be a great starting point.

And don’t sleep on word of mouth! Ask your friends, family, or people in your community if they know any excellent therapists. Sometimes, personal recommendations can lead to the most amazing finds and connections.

3. Ask the Tough Questions

When you find a potential therapist, it’s okay to ask direct questions.

In fact, you should ask these questions—it’s part of making sure they’re the right fit. Don’t feel shy about asking things like:

• “How do you incorporate cultural identity into therapy?”

• “What experience do you have working with clients from diverse backgrounds?”

• “How do you stay informed about cultural and identity issues?”

These questions can help determine whether the therapist will be sensitive to the cultural factors that may be significant in therapy.

4. Trust Your Feelings

After a few sessions, it’s essential to reflect on the therapeutic relationship.

• Does it feel comfortable and supportive?

A culturally competent therapist should create a space where it feels safe to express emotions and experiences without feeling judged or misunderstood.

Trust yourself—if something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to explore other options.

5. Be Patient, It Might Take Time

Finding the right therapist can take time, and it’s normal to try out a few counselors before finding the right match.

It’s worth the effort to find a therapist who understands and respects cultural identity.

Remember, therapy is a partnership, and having someone who “gets” you on a deeper level will make the whole experience feel more authentic and rewarding.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, therapy is supposed to be a place where you can be your true self—your full, unfiltered, cultural self.

Finding a culturally competent counselor is about making sure that happens.

Don’t settle for less.

You deserve a therapist who sees you for who you are and respects the cultural identity that’s shaped you.

Take your time, ask the questions, and keep progressing until you find the right match — You’re worth it.