Recently, I had the opportunity to be interviewed by a bright and curious college student studying psychology. As part of his research project, he asked me thoughtful questions about the challenges I face as a therapist. It was a meaningful conversation that reminded me how important it is to keep these discussions open, especially for those who are preparing to enter this field.

Here are some of the questions I was asked, along with the reflections I shared:

What are some of the most difficult or frustrating parts of your job?

One of the most frustrating parts is dealing with insurance limitations and administrative red tape, which often interfere with providing the level of care I know my clients deserve. This is why I no longer take insurance. Another ongoing challenge is navigating family dynamics—especially when a client wants to grow and heal, but the family system isn’t aligned or supportive yet.

Can you walk me through a recent time when you encountered one of those challenges?

I recently worked with a client whose family was deeply uncomfortable with the idea of therapy, due to cultural stigma. It took several sessions just to build trust with the client and help them feel safe. Eventually, I was able to gently engage the family by showing how therapy could align with their values rather than contradict them.

What steps do you typically take to deal with that challenge when it comes up?

Patience, empathy, and cultural humility are key. I listen first, then meet the client and their family where they are. I also incorporate faith-based language and analogies that resonate with them, especially when working with Muslim clients. This helps bridge the gap between therapy and their worldview.

What kinds of tools, systems, or processes have you tried to help with this?

I created custom intake forms that explore cultural and religious identity right from the start. I also use visual tools and psychoeducational handouts tailored specifically for Muslim and neurodivergent clients. These help validate their experience and create more buy-in from the beginning.

Is there anything about those solutions that you find limiting or frustrating?

Yes. These resources are effective, but building them takes time and energy that often happens outside of paid hours. There’s also a lack of existing culturally-specific materials in the field, so I often have to build things from scratch.

How often do you run into this issue, and how much does it affect your time, energy, or stress levels?

I encounter it often, especially in communities where therapy is still stigmatized. It can be emotionally draining and requires a lot of behind-the-scenes effort. But seeing progress, even slowly, makes it worth it.

What does your process usually look like when dealing with this issue?

It usually starts with building rapport and establishing a safe space. Then I introduce psychoeducation in bite-sized, culturally relevant ways. Over time, I incorporate tools like journaling, narrative therapy, or CBT techniques—always adjusting to the client’s comfort and identity.

If you could wave a magic wand and change one thing about how this part of your job works, what would it be?

I would remove the stigma around mental health care in marginalized communities and make culturally competent therapy more accessible and supported. I’d also love to see insurance and systems that don’t penalize providers for taking the time to really get to know a client.

Have you explored any alternatives to solve or reduce this issue? What made them helpful or not helpful?

Yes, I’ve started offering workshops and mental health talks at local mosques and schools. These will be incredibly helpful in breaking down stigma and building trust within the community, but they require consistent effort and partnership to sustain.

How important is it for you (or your team/organization) to find a better solution to this problem?

Extremely important. The heart of my work is helping people who have often felt unseen or misunderstood. That means we need more awareness, more collaboration, and better systems in place to truly support healing.

Why These Conversations Matter

This interview reminded me that the next generation of therapists is watching and listening closely. They care about inclusivity, identity, and doing the work with integrity. Sharing our challenges openly is how we help shape a better, more compassionate field.

If you’re a student, therapist, or someone seeking support, I hope this gave you a small window into what it means to do this work from the inside out.