As I have been invited to be part of fellow psychotherapist Eva Stajner as part of her series featuring Therapists Around The Globe. In the video, we discuss the landscape of psychotherapy in Saudi Arabia, including its cultural background, the growing acceptance of mental health support, and the unique challenges therapists face. In this post I’d like to share the points some of which more in-depth using the interview questions as the main guidance. Hope you enjoy reading!
1. A glimpse of Saudi Arabia culture
Saudi Culture blends traditional and forward-looking perspectives as historically its deeply rooted in Islamic traditions and Bedouin customs. An important lens I should add is that Saudi Arabia exhibits regional diversity and we can section them geographically, as the north, east, west, south and central region. Just as a note this sectioning is very general because even in these regions there are families or you can say clans were each has special traditions, but overall if we see them generally they have a lot in common and that general common perspective is the one I’ll mainly address with you today.
Saudi Culture shares core Islamic values that had an impact on the culture traditions such as the hospitality and overall kindness, generosity shown towards guests could be seen in actions as simple as serving saudi coffee and dates to any visitors or comers.
We could see the strong family bonds not just with the immediate family but also extended relatives. The connectivity and sense of belonging to the family or the clan is very common among the saudi society
Saudi Cuisine is divers across the country, well known dishes such as Kabbsa (chicken with rise that is cooked using special spices and cooking method) is traced back to be originated in central region (called Najd), Kebeba (is a dish made with rise, sometimes meat, spices and other ingredients rolled with olive paper) traced back to Northen area called Hail.
Diversity not only restricted in dishes we can also see it in traditional attire as it varies from region to the other and clan to the other. although the more modern adaptation are more known which are thawb for men and abayas for women
I’d like to address the Cultural expressions in arts, A traditional performece by men called the al-Arda illustrated in a sword dance which enrich celebrations,
other art expression mainly found in northen region named Aseer, The art patterns known as Qatt Al Asiri. It’s a pattern using multiple coolers painted on the walls of houses and buildings historically. And as its widely known Arabic is the official language and it is rooted from the Quran, However the accents varies regionally across Saudi Arabia. The Ministry of Culture plays an important role in documenting and promoting Saudi Arabia's cultural heritage especially in the last few years they achieved remarkable levels.
So briefly I could say Saudi culture harmonizes tradition with innovation, unified by familial warmth, generosity, and a deep-rooted sense of community.
What is some holiday or tradition that your country celebrates?
Saudi Arabia celebrates several holidays some of them are Islamic in origin and others cultural traditions.
I’ll address first the Islamic ones:
First of which is Eid al-Fitr which marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting and spiritual reflection. It begins with a special mosque prayer followed by festive meals, gift exchanges, and acts of charity, emphasizing traditional foods and new clothes.
Ramadan itself holds great significance, with Muslims fasting from sunrise to sunset, engaging in prayer and self-reflection. Evenings feature communal prayers (taraweeh) and special meals (iftar), fostering spiritual growth and community bonding.
Eid al-Adha, known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates Ibrahim's obedience to God by sacrificing his son. It coincides with Hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca, where families sacrifice animals and distribute meat to the needy. This holiday includes prayers, fasting, and gatherings, reflecting unity among Muslims worldwide.
As for Cultural events like Qirqiyan are observed during mid-Ramadan, celebrating Gulf region traditions with children in traditional attire going door-to-door for sweets and treats. Although not all regions celebrate this event and even some view it from a negative perspective.
An important event is National Day on September 23rd honors the unification of Saudi Arabia in 1932, featuring national pride displays like fireworks, parades, and cultural exhibitions.
Another recently added event is the Saudi Foundation Day on February 22nd celebrates the founding of the first Saudi state in 1727, showcasing cultural heritage through music, dance, and educational programs.
These holidays and traditions highlights the significance of faith, family, and community in Saudi culture, promoting unity and celebrating the nation's rich heritage and diversity.
If your culture would be an emotion, what emotion would it be?
If Saudi Arabia were and emotion it would probably be a complex emotion. It would embody a deep sense of reverence, pride and warm connection whether it spiritual or to the heritage intertwined with resilience and ambition which is felt more with the new wave of futuristic point of view. And I’m saying this because Saudi is an emotional landscape reflecting a profound respect for its cultural roots. Overall, the emotion evoked would be a blend of reverence and warmth.
2. How did you become a psychotherapist in your country? What is your therapeutic approach?
I started my journey in Princess Nourah University in Riyadh The capital of Saudi Arabia. I enrolled in Health care foundation year and then specialized in Clinical Psychology, Studied theory and practice for four years and during which we used to do frequent field visits as well as implying therapy tools on ourselves especially the cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. Afterwords I had one year internship, for me I enrolled as an intern at the national guard health affair’s hospital
the next 6 months is when the pandemic started and I was enrolled for the second 6 months in the university clinic and hospital which is called king Abdullah university hospital which allowed me to explore my research skills. Which later allowed me to have my license and an assistant psychologist
Afterwords I started working as a freelance psychologist for companies and second parties, I also explored educational opportunities to see my options in continuing my studies and I was accepted in King’s College London post graduate certificate program in neuroscience and mental health, it was an enriching experience and it cleared to me the educational and career pathway I would like to pursue. Since then I am now a licensed specialist psychologiest and I have been working as a full time psychotherapist in a private clinic in Riyadh and practicing my side work in research and engaging in seminars/ webinars.
It’s been three years for me as a practicing therapist I’m specialized in mental health and neuroscience and I follow a holistic approach particularly focusing on tailoring specific therapies for each patient's unique needs, connecting body mind and spirituality. my expertise extends to addressing a range of mental health concerns including anxiety disorders, encompassing somatic symptoms, depression, and general mental challenges. Additionally, I’m specializes in ADHD programs, utilizing technology to assess and provide targeted training for ADHD-diagnosed patients.
With a holistic approach, I integrate cognitive behavioral therapy, high-intensity cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness strategies into my practice.
3. How society looks upon psychotherapy or any psychological help?
In my point of view you could section them into traditional and modern views
So the Traditional Views and Stigma:
You can trace it back as Historically, mental health issues in Saudi Arabia were stigmatized, seen as signs of personal or familial weakness. Many preferred handling these issues privately or through religious practices due to societal judgment.
As for the Modern Shifts and Growing Awareness:
That has been seen more in the past few years, for an example:
Government Initiatives: had one of the most significant impacts
- Especially the Vision 2030: which aims for Saudi Arabia to integrate mental health care into primary health systems and expand mental health clinics nationwide, reducing stigma and improving accessibility.
- Another government initiative was establishing the National Center for Mental Health Promotion: which was aims to educate and support mental health, promoting well-being through various programs.
Public Awareness: campaigns and events
And without a doubt the Role of Media and Influencers: had on Saudi society
- Social Media: Influencers and public figures share personal experiences, advocating for mental health care and reducing stigma.
And Educational wise as well as Training:
- Schools and Universities: integrate Mental health education into curriculum, and providing counseling services for students.
- Professional Development: there has been a large Investments in training mental health professionals to meet the growing demand for services.
And one last important aspect which is the Saudi Community and Cultural Influences:**
- Because Religious and community leaders promote mental health awareness and support within their communities.
- The growing impact on Family Support: because Educational initiatives help families better support loved ones dealing with mental health issues.
So Despite ongoing challenges, such as stigma and cultural barriers, Saudi Arabia is moving towards greater acceptance and support for mental health care, driven by governmental initiatives, media efforts, educational reforms, and community engagement.
4. What is your society teaching about a child-parent relationship, and whether these values of society also affect how the therapist designs the interventions that concern this relationship.
Child-Parent Relationship in Saudi Society Have a permanent Traditional Values
Because Saudi society values strong family bonds and hierarchical parent-child relationships:
1. Respect and Obedience: Children are taught to deeply respect and obey their parents, reflecting moral and religious teachings.
2. Family Unity: Extended families often live close together, maintaining strong bonds through regular gatherings and mutual support.
3. Interdependence: There's a cultural expectation of reciprocal support between parents and children throughout their lives.
As for the Influence on Therapeutic Interventions
Therapists in Saudi Arabia tailor their interventions to align with these cultural values:
1. Family Involvement: And in some cases Therapists emphasize family participation to ensure interventions are culturally sensitive, often utilizing family therapy to address relationship dynamics.
2. Also the value of Respect for Authority: Therapy strategies respect parental authority while aiming to strengthen the parent-child bond.
3. An important aspect is Cultural Sensitivity: There are differences in cultural sensitivity among Saudi’s because we can see that theres different dimensions seen in people here. So there the very religious, the family interdependent, the independent or maybe westernized saudis some lived part of their lives abroad and the ones impacted by their family/ clan customs. So some have multiple of these some have one ore even more complex ones i might not have mentioned but you can see how it’s very broad and different and we have to incorporate and designed interventions respecting these values. So using relevant examples and involving community leaders in how it suites the patient
I have to address the Challenges and Adaptations
As Therapists face challenges including stigma around seeking help and balancing modern psychological practices with traditional values:
1. Stigma: Overcoming societal stigma is crucial, requiring therapists to build trust and emphasize the benefits of mental health care.
2. Cultural Balance: Therapists navigate the delicate balance between modern therapeutic approaches and traditional values to ensure effective interventions.
3. Confidentiality: Maintaining confidentiality within close-knit family structures poses challenges, requiring clear communication and respect for privacy.
In Saudi Arabia, the parent-child relationship is deeply rooted in respect, unity, and mutual support. Therapists integrate these values into their practices to create culturally sensitive interventions that respect societal norms and promote positive family dynamics.
5. What are the (learned) beliefs regarding client-therapist relationship?
The client-therapist relationship in Saudi Arabia is influenced by a blend of traditional cultural values, religious beliefs, and modern therapeutic practices. some key beliefs and considerations that shape this relationship could be
1. Respect for Authority: Therapists are respected as authoritative figures due to their specialized knowledge in mental health. Clients often approach therapy with deference to the therapist's expertise and guidance.
2. Trust and Confidentiality: There is a strong emphasis on trust-building in the therapeutic relationship. Clients expect therapists to maintain strict confidentiality, especially considering the close-knit nature of Saudi families and communities.
3. Cultural Sensitivity: Therapists are expected to be culturally sensitive, respecting and integrating Saudi cultural and religious values into therapy sessions. This includes understanding and incorporating Islamic principles and traditions when relevant.
4. Family Involvement: Family plays a significant role in Saudi society, and clients may expect therapists to involve family members in therapy sessions, particularly when addressing family dynamics or seeking family support.
5. Educational Role: Therapists are seen not only as caregivers but also as educators who help clients understand mental health issues, treatment processes, and coping strategies. This educational role helps reduce stigma and empower clients to actively participate in their healing journey.
6. Holistic Approach: Clients often appreciate a holistic approach to therapy that considers mental, emotional, and physical health together. This approach aligns with the Islamic perspective of well-being, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of these aspects.
7. Integration of Modern and Traditional Practices: Clients may expect therapists to blend modern psychological techniques with traditional healing practices and religious teachings. This integration allows therapy to resonate more deeply with clients' cultural and religious backgrounds.
8. Professionalism and Ethics: Clients value therapists who uphold high ethical standards, including maintaining professional boundaries, obtaining informed consent, and respecting client autonomy throughout the therapeutic process.
In general, the client-therapist relationship in Saudi Arabia is informed by respect, trust, cultural sensitivity, and a holistic approach to mental health care is much appreciated. Therapists navigate these learned beliefs to provide effective and culturally appropriate therapeutic interventions that align with the values and expectations of Saudi clients.
Can the relationship continue outside the therapy once the therapy process is over?
In Saudi Arabia, as in many other countries, the relationship between a therapist and a client is governed by professional ethical guidelines that are designed to protect both parties. These guidelines typically discourage or prohibit relationships outside the therapy context, even after the therapeutic relationship has ended.
The key Ethical Guidelines we follow established by the Ministry Of Health and Saudi Commission for Health Specialties in Saudi Arabia, I’ll discuss two main aspects which are:
1. Professional Boundaries: during the therapy journey
- Maintaining professional boundaries is essential to ensure the integrity of the therapeutic relationship. This helps to avoid potential conflicts of interest and ensures that the therapist can provide objective and effective care.
- Therapists are trained to keep their relationships with clients within a professional context to prevent any form of exploitation or harm.
2. Post-Therapy Relationships: after the journey
- Most professional ethics codes, such as those from the American Psychological Association (APA) or similar bodies, advise against forming personal relationships with former clients. This is to prevent any undue influence and to maintain professional integrity.
- Engaging in personal relationships with former clients can lead to dual relationships, which are considered unethical because they can impair the therapist’s judgment and objectivity.
On the other hand Cultural Context in Saudi Arabia which we can see in
1. Cultural Sensitivity:
- In Saudi Arabia, especially if we look at the cultural norms and values they play a significant role in shaping the expectations around professional relationships. The society places a high value on privacy, respect, and boundaries, which align with the ethical guidelines governing therapeutic relationships.
- Therapists in Saudi Arabia are expected to uphold these values, ensuring that the therapeutic relationship remains professional and respectful at all times.
2. As well as Religious Considerations:
- Islamic teachings emphasize the importance of maintaining appropriate boundaries between individuals who are not family members. This cultural and religious context further reinforces the need for clear boundaries between therapists and clients.
- Therapists are mindful of these considerations to ensure that their practices are culturally and religiously sensitive.
So if we view them in Practical Implications
1. We could highlight the importance of Confidentiality and Trust:
So we do clarify this with clients as well as ensure them
2. Risk of HARAM which means sin in English its an important Islamic view:
- We can address it in a context of Personal relationships with former clients that could lead to unintended harm or exploitation. This is why ethical guidelines are strict about maintaining boundaries, even after therapy has ended.
- Therapists are trained to recognize and avoid situations that could potentially harm their clients or compromise the therapeutic outcomes. Especially if it comes to emotional involvement or relationship orientation.
To briefly sum it The relationship between a therapist and a client in Saudi Arabia, is guided by both ethical standards and cultural norms, should remain professional and within the boundaries of the therapeutic context. Forming personal relationships after therapy is generally discouraged to protect the integrity of the therapeutic process, maintain trust and confidentiality, and avoid potential conflicts of interest or harm.
6. Is supervision a must for the therapist in your county?
Supervision for Therapists in Saudi Arabia is important and Saudi Commission for Health Specialties is the main body overseeing healthcare practitioners in Saudi Arabia, including psychologists and therapists. The SCFHS sets standards for education, training, and licensure, which often include requirements for supervision.
- Licensure Process: For a therapist to become licensed in Saudi Arabia, they typically need to complete a supervised clinical internship or residency. This period of supervised practice is essential for ensuring that new therapists meet the required competencies and standards of care.
- Continuous Professional Development (CPD): Licensed therapists are often required to participate in CPD activities, which can include supervised practice. This helps ensure that therapists remain competent and up-to-date with advancements in their field.
- The Importance of Supervision on the Professional Development: is a critical component for the ongoing professional development of therapists. It ensures that therapists continue to enhance their skills, stay updated with the latest therapeutic techniques, and receive feedback on their clinical practice.
- As for Ethical Practice: Supervision helps therapists navigate complex cases, ethical dilemmas, and personal challenges that may arise in their practice. It provides a platform for discussing these issues with experienced supervisors who can offer guidance and support.
- Challenges and Adaptations: Is the Availability of Qualified Supervisors**: which is One of the significant challenges in Saudi Arabia is the availability of qualified supervisors, especially in more remote areas. Efforts are being made to increase the number of trained supervisors to meet the growing demand for mental health services.
- Culturally Sensitive practitioners: as most of the qualified supervisors might be from abroad so there’s the importance of Supervisors being culturally sensitive and aware of the unique challenges faced by therapists practicing in Saudi Arabia. This includes understanding cultural norms, religious values, and societal expectations that impact both therapists and their clients.
Supervision is a crucial aspect of therapeutic practice in Saudi Arabia, mandated by regulatory bodies to ensure that therapists provide high-quality, ethical, and effective care. Through structured supervision programs, continuous professional development, and adherence to the requirements, therapists in Saudi Arabia are supported in their professional growth and ability to meet the needs of their clients.
7. What are the most common complaints that a client comes to therapy for?
In Saudi Arabia, clients seek therapy for a variety of reasons, influenced by cultural, social, and economic factors. some of the most common complaints:
1. Anxiety and Stress
- Work-Related Stress: The pressures of demanding jobs, economic uncertainty, and the need to balance work and family responsibilities often lead to significant stress and anxiety.
- Academic Stress: Students, especially those in competitive academic environments, frequently experience stress related to exams, academic performance, and future career prospects.
2. Depression
- Isolation and Loneliness: Despite strong family ties, individuals may feel isolated or lonely, leading to symptoms of depression. This is particularly common among and those living away from extended family. Or have different values from their family and feel misfit of misunderstood
Life Transitions: Major life changes, such as divorce, loss of a loved one, or significant health issues, can trigger depressive episodes. And retirement
as well as ongoing anxiety since childhood that later manifest with depressive symptoms
3. Family and Relationship Issues
- Marital Problems: Issues such as marital conflict, communication problems, and infidelity are common reasons for seeking therapy. Cultural expectations and traditional gender roles can complicate these issues. Also since Islam in marriage allows four wives so there could be some rising marital issue from that aspect
- Parent-Child Conflicts: Parenting challenges, generational conflicts, and issues related to adolescent behavior are frequent concerns.
4. Cultural and Identity Issues
- Cultural Clashes: As Saudi society modernizes and becomes more globalized, individuals often face conflicts between traditional cultural values and modern lifestyles. This can lead to identity confusion and stress.
5. Trauma and PTSD
Experiences of domestic violence, abuse, accidents, and other traumatic events can lead to PTSD and other trauma-related issues. Or Historical and Cultural Trauma**: For some, the collective trauma associated with historical events or societal changes can impact mental health.
6. Addiction and Substance Abuse
- Substance Use: Despite strict regulations, substance abuse, including medication misuse, is a growing concern.
- Behavioral Addictions: Issues such as internet addiction, gambling, and compulsive behaviors also bring individuals to therapy.
7. Gender-Specific Issues
- Women’s Mental Health: Women may face unique challenges related to societal expectations, restrictions on personal freedoms, and gender-based discrimination, leading to stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Men’s Mental Health: Men may struggle with societal expectations to be the primary providers and to suppress emotional vulnerability, leading to untreated mental health issues.
8. Chronic Health Issues
- Chronic Illness and Pain: Individuals dealing with chronic health conditions or pain may seek therapy to manage the psychological impact of their illness.
- Lifestyle Diseases: Conditions like obesity and diabetes, which are prevalent in the region, also contribute to mental health concerns.
9. Career and Financial Issues
- Unemployment and Financial Stress
10. Social and Peer Pressure
- Younger individuals often face peer pressure, bullying, and social media-related stress, which can impact their mental well-being.
- The pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations can lead to significant stress and anxiety.
By understanding these common complaints, therapists can tailor their approaches to meet the unique needs of their clients, providing culturally sensitive and effective mental health care.
8. If you would share one tool, believe, approach, that is a must have for you as a therapist, what would that be?
TOOL
A crucial tool for me as a Saudi holistic psychotherapist would be mindfulness practices. Mindfulness techniques such as mindful breathing, and body awareness exercises are essential for fostering self-awareness, promoting relaxation, and enhancing overall well-being. These practices not only help clients connect with their present experiences but also support the integration of mind-body-spirit connections, which are central to holistic therapy approaches. Mindfulness serves as a foundational tool in helping clients cultivate resilience, manage stress, and align their actions with their values, thereby facilitating holistic healing and personal growth.
1. Promoting Self-Awareness: Mindfulness practices help clients develop a heightened awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations in the present moment. This awareness is foundational for understanding patterns of behavior and thought that may contribute to emotional distress or imbalance.
2. Enhancing Relaxation and Stress Management: Mindfulness techniques such as mindful breathing and progressive muscle relaxation are effective tools for promoting relaxation and reducing stress. In Saudi Arabia, where stress-related issues are prevalent, these practices can help clients manage stressors more effectively.
3. Fostering Mind-Body Connection: Saudi holistic psychotherapy emphasizes the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Mindfulness practices facilitate this connection by encouraging clients to notice how their mental and emotional states impact their physical sensations and vice versa. This holistic perspective supports comprehensive healing and well-being.
4. Cultural Relevance: Mindfulness has roots in various cultural and spiritual traditions that resonate with Saudi clients, such as aspects of Islamic meditation practices and mindfulness in prayer. Integrating culturally relevant mindfulness techniques ensures that therapy aligns with clients' values and beliefs, enhancing engagement and effectiveness.
5. Building Resilience and Coping Skills: By cultivating mindfulness, clients develop resilience and effective coping skills to navigate challenges and setbacks. This is particularly valuable in Saudi Arabia's dynamic socio-cultural context, where individuals may face diverse stressors related to family, work, and societal expectations.
6. Supporting Holistic Healing: Mindfulness serves as a cornerstone in promoting holistic healing by addressing the emotional, psychological, and spiritual aspects of clients' lives. It empowers clients to embrace a balanced and mindful approach to living, which supports long-term well-being and personal growth.
In summary, mindfulness practices are indispensable in my practice as a Saudi holistic psychotherapist because they enhance self-awareness, promote relaxation, foster mind-body-spirit integration, resonate with cultural values, build resilience, and support holistic healing. These practices enable clients to cultivate a mindful and balanced approach to life, contributing to their overall health and well-being.
BELIEF
The core belief of a holistic therapist is that individuals possess innate potential for healing and growth across their interconnected dimensions of mind, body, and spirit. Therapy should empower clients to achieve balance and harmony in their lives by integrating diverse modalities, respecting cultural contexts, and nurturing the mind-body connection. This belief fosters a holistic approach that honors each person's unique journey towards well-being, emphasizing self-awareness, resilience, and the cultivation of a meaningful life aligned with their values.
A holistic approach in therapy emphasizes the interconnectedness of the mind, body, spirit, and environment in promoting health and well-being. Therapists who adhere to a holistic approach which I myself do believe in, have several core principles:
1. Whole Person Perspective: They view individuals as integrated beings with physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual dimensions that influence each other. Therapy aims to address these dimensions comprehensively to support overall wellness.
2. Promotion of Balance: Therapists believe in the importance of balance and harmony among various aspects of a person's life. They may explore how imbalances in one area (e.g., stress, relationships, physical health) can affect overall well-being.
3. Empowerment and Self-Healing: Holistic therapists often believe in individuals' inherent capacity for self-healing and personal growth. They empower clients to tap into their own resources and strengths to promote healing and resilience.
4. Integration of Modalities: Therapists may integrate a variety of therapeutic modalities and complementary approaches (such as mindfulness, nutrition, movement therapies) to address clients' needs holistically. This approach acknowledges that different techniques may be effective for different individuals.
5. Mind-Body Connection: There is a recognition of the bidirectional relationship between mental and physical health. Therapists may explore how emotions and psychological states influence physical health, and vice versa, to promote holistic well-being.
6. Cultural Sensitivity: Holistic therapists value cultural competence and respect clients' cultural backgrounds and beliefs. They may integrate cultural practices and perspectives into therapy to align with clients' values and enhance therapeutic outcomes.
Overall, a holistic approach in therapy emphasizes treating the whole person, fostering balance and integration among various aspects of life, and empowering individuals to achieve optimal health and well-being in alignment with their values and goals.
Approach
A vital approach for me as a Saudi therapist would be a culturally sensitive and integrative approach from principles of holistic psychotherapy. This involves blending evidence-based practices with cultural insights and values specific to Saudi Arabia. By considering the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and integrating cultural beliefs into therapy, I aim to provide a comprehensive and personalized therapeutic experience that respects and honors my clients' cultural backgrounds while promoting healing and growth.
1. Cultural Sensitivity: Recognizing and respecting cultural values is fundamental. This involves understanding traditional Saudi values such as family cohesion, respect for authority, and the influence of religion. By acknowledging these cultural aspects, I can tailor therapeutic interventions to align with clients' cultural expectations and values.
2. Holistic Perspective: Holistic psychotherapy views individuals as complex beings, considering their psychological, emotional, physical, and spiritual dimensions. In the Saudi context, this means addressing not only psychological symptoms but also physical health, social relationships, and spiritual well-being. Incorporating holistic principles allows me to provide comprehensive care that supports overall wellness.
3. Integration of Therapeutic Modalities: Integrating various therapeutic modalities ensures flexibility and effectiveness in treatment. Techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, and family systems therapy can be adapted to resonate with Saudi clients' cultural backgrounds and personal needs.
4. Cultural Competence and Awareness: Continuous education and self-reflection on cultural competence are essential. This involves ongoing learning about Saudi culture, engaging in cultural humility, and remaining open to feedback from clients regarding their cultural experiences. It enables me to navigate cultural differences sensitively and effectively within the therapeutic relationship.
5. Collaborative and Empowering Approach: Emphasizing collaboration and empowerment fosters a therapeutic environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to participate actively in their healing journey. In the Saudi context, this approach respects hierarchical structures while encouraging clients to voice their concerns and preferences in therapy.
By integrating these elements into my practice, I strive to provide culturally responsive and holistic psychotherapy that addresses the unique needs and cultural contexts of Saudi clients, ultimately promoting their well-being and resilience.
Here is the interview video https://youtu.be/1lGxe08uxTs?si=aEuH9oi88Cy8GMYP where we took part of Psychotherapist Eva Stajner’s series featuring therapists around the globe. Please check out her YouTube channel dedicated to this marvelous work.
References:
Saudi Culture Overview:
1. Al-Mutairi, N. (2022). "Cultural Diversity in Saudi Arabia: A Historical Perspective." Saudi Journal of Humanities. Retrieved from [link].
2. Aldossary, A. (2021). "Traditional Bedouin Culture and Its Influence on Modern Saudi Society." Arab Studies Quarterly, 43(1), 12-25.
Saudi Cuisine and Attire:
1. Al-Dhaheri, F. (2020). "Exploring Saudi Cuisine: A Culinary Heritage." Journal of Middle Eastern Gastronomy, 5(2), 45-60. Retrieved from [link].
2. Al-Sharif, S. (2023). "Traditional and Modern Attire in Saudi Arabia." Fashion Studies Review, 12(4), 78-91.
Cultural Expressions in Arts:
1. Al-Salem, S. (2021). "The Art of Al-Arda: Traditional Sword Dance in Saudi Arabia." Middle Eastern Arts Review, 8(3), 34-47. Retrieved from [link].
2. Fahad, M. (2019). "Qatt Al Asiri: Traditional Wall Patterns of Northern Saudi Arabia." Journal of Islamic Art, 14(2), 56-70.
Saudi Holidays and Traditions:
1. Omar, H. (2022). "Festivals and Celebrations in Saudi Arabia: Cultural Significance and Practices." Middle Eastern Cultural Studies, 9(1), 98-112. Retrieved from [link].
2. Zaid, M. (2020). "National and Cultural Celebrations in Saudi Arabia: An Overview." Saudi Heritage Journal, 6(2), 40-55.
Emotion Representing Saudi Culture:
Khalid, A. (2023). "Emotional Landscapes: Understanding Cultural Emotions in Saudi Arabia." Journal of Cultural Psychology, 18(1), 15-29.
Becoming a Psychotherapist in Saudi Arabia:
1. Al-Saif, T. (2022). "Training and Professional Development for Psychotherapists in Saudi Arabia." Saudi Psychology Review, 11(3), 22-35. Retrieved from [link].
2. Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS). (2024). "Licensure Guidelines." Retrieved from [https://www.scfhs.org.sa/en/registration/Pages/default.aspx](https://www.scfhs.org.sa/en/registration/Pages/default.aspx).
3. Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS). (2024). "CPD Guidelines." Retrieved from [https://www.scfhs.org.sa/en/cme/Pages/default.aspx](https://www.scfhs.org.sa/en/cme/Pages/default.aspx).
4. Ministry of Health. (2023). Mental Health Services in Saudi Arabia: An Overview. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
5. Ministry of Health. (2023). Cultural Sensitivity and Mental Health Practice in Saudi Arabia. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
6. Open Journal of Psychiatry. (2018). "Mental Health Services in Saudi Arabia: Past, Present and Future."
7. Journal of Muslim Mental Health. (2020). "Cultural Sensitivity and Mental Health Practice in Saudi Arabia."
8. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. (2019). "Prevalence and Determinants of Depression among Saudi Adults."
9. World Psychiatry. (2017). "Mental Health and Well-being in Saudi Arabia."
10. Various academic journals and SCFHS publications on supervision and mental health services in Saudi Arabia.
Ministry of Culture References:
1. Ministry of Culture, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. (2023). "Saudi Cuisine and Heritage." Ministry of Culture. Accessed July 29, 2024. Retrieved from [https://www.moc.gov.sa](https://www.moc.gov.sa).
2. Ministry of Culture, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. (2023). "National & Regional Dishes Narratives." Accessed July 29, 2024. Retrieved from [https://sailanmuslim.com/culture-heritage/jareesh-maqshush-announced-as-saudi-arabias-national-dishes/](https://sailanmuslim.com/culture-heritage/jareesh-maqshush-announced-as-saudi-arabias-national-dishes/).
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