Why Culturally Competent Therapy is Essential for Adult Adoptees
Why Cultural Competence Matters in Therapy for Adoptees
If you’re an adult adoptee exploring therapy, you might be wondering: Will my therapist really get me? It’s a valid question. Adoption is a deeply personal and complex experience, and it’s often intertwined with questions of identity, belonging, and culture. That’s why finding a therapist who is culturally competent isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential.
What Does Cultural Competence Mean?
Cultural competence means your therapist has the awareness, knowledge, and skills to understand and respect your unique background. For adoptees, this includes recognizing how adoption shapes your life, whether you were adopted domestically, internationally, or through foster care. It also means understanding how race, ethnicity, and cultural heritage play a role in your story—even if you grew up in a family with a different cultural background than your own.
Let’s be real: adoption isn’t just a one-time event. It’s a lifelong journey that can bring up complex emotions, like grief, loss, or questions about identity. A culturally competent therapist won’t minimize these feelings or assume they know your story. Instead, they’ll create a safe space for you to explore it all—without judgment.
Why It’s Especially Important for Adoptees
For many adoptees, cultural identity can feel like a puzzle with missing pieces. Maybe you grew up in a family that didn’t share your racial or cultural background. Maybe you’ve struggled with feeling “different” or disconnected from your roots. Or maybe you’ve faced microaggressions or outright discrimination because of how you look or where you come from.
A culturally competent therapist gets it. They understand that these experiences can impact your mental health, relationships, and sense of self. They won’t dismiss your feelings or try to fit your story into a neat little box. Instead, they’ll help you navigate the complexities of adoption and identity in a way that feels authentic to you.
What to Look for in a Therapist
When you’re searching for a therapist, don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Do they have experience working with adoptees?
Are they familiar with the unique challenges adoptees face, like navigating birth family relationships or grappling with cultural identity?
Do they understand how systemic issues, like racism or xenophobia, might intersect with your experience as an adoptee?
At MooYoung Psychological Health, Dr. MooYoung specializes in working with adult adoptees. She understands that your story is unique, and is here to support you as you explore your identity, process your emotions, and build a life that feels authentic and fulfilling.
If you’re ready to start your healing journey, we’d love to hear from you. Let’s work together to create a space where you feel seen, understood, and empowered. Reach out today to schedule a consultation—because you deserve a therapist who truly gets it.