Why social justice matters in therapy
Therapy doesn’t happen in a bubble. Who we are – our backgrounds, our identities, our experiences in the world – all shape how we feel, how we cope and how we show up in the therapy room. That’s why social justice matters here too.
We don’t leave the world at the door
You might not come to therapy expecting or wanting to talk about race, class, gender or power. But those things live in all of our stories – in how safe we’ve felt (or not), how we’ve been treated, what opportunities we’ve had, and what we’ve learned to hide. Therapy that ignores these forces risks missing something vital.
The therapy room as a microcosm of society
Therapists hold a position of power. So do structures of education, class, whiteness, gender norms and more. These dynamics don’t disappear in therapy – they show up, often subtly, whether we know it or not. A socially aware therapist stays awake to this, working with humility and care to create space where power can be noticed, explored and, sometimes – when needed – challenged.
What a socially conscious therapist brings
This isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being willing to keep learning. To be curious. To listen. To recognise that “neutrality” often benefits the status quo. A socially aware therapist recognises the impact of their own identities and privileges, and works to create space for all the parts of your lived experience – not just your inner world, but the context around it too.
Why this matters for your wellbeing
Therapy is about being seen. Fully. And that means being seen not just as a collection of feelings or struggles, but as a whole person – shaped by your history, your culture, your identities and the systems around you. That’s how trust builds. That’s how real change begins.
Closing thought
While I’m certainly not perfect, I care deeply – and stay engaged in the ongoing work of learning, unlearning and listening. If you’re looking for a therapist whose approach is shaped by a steady commitment to social justice, I’d love to hear from you. You can contact me here.