Addressing Oppression, Power, and Privilege the broader context of oppression and systemic inequality. Counselors must recognize how historical and contemporary forms of discrimination impact clients’ mental health and well-being marginalization is essential for fostering an authentic therapeutic relationship.
Empathy is enhanced when therapists understand the emotional impact of oppression and acknowledge the external factors affecting clients’ lives. Counselors must also examine their own identities and biases while recognizing both shared and unshared experiences with
Multicultural and social justice–oriented counselors actively engage in discussions about identity, privilege, and systemic barriers. They also support clients in developing connections with supportive communities
Case Example Consider a child from an immigrant family who presents with withdrawn behavior in the playroom. A therapist unfamiliar with the child’s cultural background may interpret this behavior as resistance or anxiety. However, through a culturally humble approach, the therapist explores the family’s cultural values and learns that the child has been socialized to demonstrate deference to adults and emotional restraint.
By adjusting expectations, incorporating culturally familiar play materials, and engaging the family in treatment, the therapist is able to build trust and create a more supportive therapeutic environment. This example illustrates how cultural humility allows clinicians to avoid misinterpretation and respond more effectively to the child’s needs. For example, the therapist may incorporate culturally familiar the child’s cultural background to support expression in a manner congruent with the child’s values
Implications for Practice Practitioners may consider focusing on intentionally integrating culturally relevant materials into play therapy sessions, adapting therapeutic language to align with the child’s cultural context, and engaging caregivers as collaborative partners while maintaining professional responsibility for cultural learning. Clinicians must be prepared to address and repair cultural ruptures in the therapeutic relationship through openness, accountability, and dialogue.
The increasing use of telehealth further requires therapists to and engagement in virtual settings. Additionally, clinicians should advocate for systemic changes to reduce barriers to care, particularly for marginalized populations.
18 | PLAYTHERAPY | June 2026 |
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Promoting Inclusive and Equitable Practice Culturally and racially respectful play therapy requires intentional and sustained efforts. Clinicians should consistently consider each client’s cultural context—including race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, and socioeconomic status—throughout assessment and Representation within the therapeutic environment is also essential. such as referrals to community organizations, cultural events, and educational opportunities, can further support clients and families. Respect for clients’ identities should be demonstrated through everyday
interactions, including the accurate pronunciation of
names. While therapists may invite clients to share aspects of their culture, it is the clinician’s responsibility to engage in independent learning rather than relying on clients for education.
Equitable access to services is another critical consideration. Offering reduced fees, pro bono services, and accepting insurance—including Medicaid—can help reduce systemic barriers. Additionally, therapists should consider accessibility factors such as location and proximity to transportation.
Finally, cultural humility requires acknowledging limitations. Therapists must recognize gaps in their knowledge, seek consultation when necessary, and provide appropriate referrals. Ongoing professional development—particularly training led by Black, culturally responsive and ethical practice.
Professional Resources for Ongoing Cultural Humility Development Cultural humility is not achieved through a single training or experience, but rather through an ongoing process of professional development, to high-quality training, literature, and materials is essential for sustaining culturally responsive play therapy practice.
Training and Continuing Education Play therapists are encouraged to pursue continuing education through organizations such as the Association for Play Therapy, which provides approved training programs and continuing education opportunities. APT-approved providers offer workshops and courses addressing cultural humility and inclusive play therapy practices. Connecting with these providers, as well as supervisors or consultants who emphasize therapist self-awareness and the integration of cultural responsiveness into clinical work. Ongoing participation in such trainings supports clinicians in maintaining ethical and culturally attuned practice.
Recommended Literature Scholarly and clinical texts provide an important foundation for developing cultural humility. In addition to the literature listed in the references
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