Racial, Ethnic & Cultural Identity

Gaining understanding, confidence, and self-awareness in your racial identity.

Racial, Ethnic & Cultural Identity

GAINING UNDERSTANDING, CONFIDENCE, AND SELF-AWARENESS IN YOUR RACIAL IDENTITY.

In general, we in America live in a white normative and mono-racially defined society, and we do not recognize the complexity in the development of a racial, ethnic, and cultural identity. As a result, countless people feel alienated, insecure around issues of self-identification, and frustrated with others defining, appropriating, or ascribing their identities.

How exactly do we define and understand the complex dynamics of race? Factors include:

  • Family of origin
  • Skin color
  • Socio-economics
  • Socio-cultural elements
  • Parental perspectives
  • Extended family dynamics
  • Peer groups
  • Political climates

As we examine racial identity, we must become aware of our own beliefs related to race. It is imperative that we build an understanding of how race has been constructed in our country, society, communities, families, and our own personal beliefs.

How can you manage all of these racial identity issues? Specific therapy can help.

Therapy can provide resources and tools necessary to:

  • Think critically about race 
  • Develop personal identity
  • Embrace differences
  • Have meaningful conversations about race and culture
  • Assertively protect against injustice
  • Use modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Narrative Therapy to address race-related issues

Moreover, for individuals who have experienced racism, social disapproval, or invalidation of their racial identity, the resulting trauma can impact overall well-being. Our therapy work helps reconcile these deeply hurtful personal events while replacing negative societal narratives with a positive sense of self-identity. With this type of support, you can gain confidence and celebrate your racial, ethnic, and cultural heritages.