We were lucky to catch up with Adrianna Rodriguez recently and have shared our conversation below.
Adrianna , appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about serving the underserved.
My counseling practice primarily caters to the underrepresented BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities, with a particular emphasis on individuals hailing from collectivist cultures. This focus has arisen from the recognition of a profound and often overlooked issue: people from collectivist cultures frequently encounter heightened stigmatization within their families and communities when seeking mental health counseling. As such, it is essential to understand the significance of addressing this disparity and the role my brand plays in serving this underserved community.
Allow me to illustrate this issue through a personal anecdote. My own journey of understanding and embracing mental health was marked by an early experience with a therapist who happened to be a white woman. During our sessions, she made a comment that, though well-intentioned, was inadvertently hurtful, describing my appearance as “exotic.” This seemingly innocuous remark had a profound impact; it left me feeling judged and disconnected from my own identity, ultimately leading to my decision to terminate the therapeutic relationship, despite a clear recognition of my need for support. I share this story because it exemplifies a common theme in BIPOC communities, where individuals often encounter well-meaning clinicians whose cultural insensitivity or lack of understanding hinders the therapeutic process.
In a society that often emphasizes individualistic approaches to healing and self-care, the unique needs and dynamics of collectivistic cultures can easily be forgotten. It’s essential to recognize that the prevailing models of mental health care are frequently structured around individual autonomy and self-expression, which may inadvertently sideline the profound influence of collective identities, familial bonds, and community support in the healing process. This oversight not only perpetuates disparities in access to care but also neglects the deeply rooted values and beliefs that BIPOC individuals from collectivist cultures hold dear.
What sets my counseling practice apart is its unwavering commitment to addressing these issues and breaking down the barriers that hinder members of BIPOC communities from accessing the mental health care they require. By acknowledging and respecting the unique cultural and collective experiences of these individuals, my brand endeavors to create a safe and inclusive space where clients can explore their mental health without fear of being misunderstood or judged. This approach is crucial, especially when considering the added layer of collectivist culture, which can further complicate the process of seeking support.
In essence, my counseling practice is dedicated to dismantling the barriers that exist for BIPOC individuals and providing a space where they can engage with their mental health journeys free from stigma and cultural insensitivity. Our approach is rooted in understanding, empathy, and cultural competence, ultimately empowering our clients to embrace their identities and access the care they deserve. Through this dedication, we endeavor to bridge the gap between underserved communities and mental health services, fostering a brighter and more equitable future for all.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I am a psychotherapist based in Austin, Texas, and I lead Cultural Refuge Counseling, a practice that specializes in understanding and addressing the impact of collectivist cultures on individual mental health. My journey into this field was driven by a profound personal connection and the recognition of a pressing need within our society.
Cultural Refuge Counseling was born out of a passionate commitment to those individuals who have never felt fully accepted by their family or culture due to differences in values, beliefs, or identity. In every family, there exist unspoken rules and expectations, guiding how one should behave and present themselves to the world. However, for those belonging to collectivist families, these expectations can be particularly intense. Many individuals within this context may identify as outcasts or black sheep within their own communities.
As someone who has grappled with the complexities of seeking familial approval while navigating my own unique path, I intimately understand the isolating journey that often accompanies growing up in a Hispanic household. This isolation comes with additional layers of emotions, such as rejection, guilt, and disconnection, leading to feelings of shame, the pursuit of perfectionism, and the masking of one’s true identity. It’s not uncommon to encounter patterns of generational trauma within these communities.
In my experience, those who seek therapy to address these deep-seated emotions and challenges are often the pioneers within their families, breaking new ground by seeking mental health support, especially among members of BIPOC communities.
What sets Cultural Refuge Counseling apart is our unwavering dedication to creating a safe and supportive space for individuals navigating the complex interplay of cultural expectations and personal identity. Our approach is rooted in empathy, cultural competence, and a deep understanding of the nuanced challenges faced by those in collectivist cultures.
I am most proud of the transformative journeys I’ve witnessed in my clients as they find their voice, heal, and authentically embrace their identity. I want potential clients and supporters to know that at Cultural Refuge Counseling, we offer a sanctuary for self-discovery and healing, and we are committed to addressing the often-overlooked needs of those who have felt like cultural outliers. Our mission is to empower individuals to chart their path toward mental well-being and self-acceptance, breaking the cycle of generational trauma and fostering a more inclusive and understanding world.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
What contributed to establishing my reputation within the market was the authenticity of my identity as a Latina therapist in a predominantly white city. This unique aspect of my background has enabled me to forge deeper connections with BIPOC communities, as I am not perceived as an outsider. By being relatable and having a firsthand understanding of the challenges and cultural nuances these communities face, I’ve been able to build trust and credibility, ultimately creating a more inclusive and empathetic space for those seeking support in their mental health journey.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
The best source of new clients has undoubtedly been word-of-mouth referrals or recommendations from my Instagram following. Each month I try to connect with at least two professionals, such as therapists or individuals involved in business that serve BIPOC communities. It brings me joy to grab coffee or have lunch where we share stories and get to know each other on a personal level. My favorite question to ask anyone I meet with is, “How can I support you?”. This question feels so vulnerable and by asking this, I hope it communicates the message that I sincerely care and want to invest in their success and wellbeing just as much as mine.
Contact Info:
- Website: culturalrefugeatx.com
- Instagram: culturalrefugecounseling