CAN I ASK A THERAPIST ABOUT THEIR RELIGION? RACIAL BACKGROUND? POLITICAL BELIEFS?

 

Most of us are raised to see through religion or skin color. We are also told that asking personal questions (especially to a stranger) is incredibly impolite. This is not quite the case with your therapist.

When choosing someone to share your innermost thoughts, it is acceptable to choose a therapist that makes you feel comfortable as well as understood. It is acceptable to see therapists publicly stating their racial and religious backgrounds. Further most therapists will also state if they are comfortable with underserved populations or individuals who are part of the LGBTIQ+ community (just to name a few).

These personal details are not appropriate when interviewing someone for a job. But, therapists are an exception. Please ask your therapist about their background so that you can make sure that it's a good fit.

Therapists are trained to be sensitive to individuals of all cultural and religious backgrounds, and this training is mandatory for licensed clinicians to practice in mental health. Your therapist will politely decline to answer if you ask something they don't want to share. This is perfectly OK, and the therapist will be trained with how to handle this moment as well. 

If you can't locate a therapist that fully meets your needs from a cultural perspective, you should seek someone that is inclusive. Having a polite and culturally sensitive curiosity is a sign of a good therapist.