Differences, differences, differences: Working with ethnic, cultural and religious diversity

It is probably the case that many people who seek psychotherapy feel a little different from the rest of society in some way, if only perhaps by dint of the fact that their problems or their suffering have led them to take the step of seeking professional help. However, the differences from others that might be perceived by our clients at Respond are potentially profound and difficult. The dual characteristics, common to Respond clients, of struggling with intellectual disability and having experienced sexual trauma are significant factors in creating such perceptions of difference. In some cases there is the added contribution of belonging to a minority ethnic, cultural or religious group.