Uncovering What’s Invisible: Cultural Considerations in Therapy with Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) Clients with Perla Hollow, M.A., LMFT and Susan Abdel-Haq, M.A., LMFT (July 17, 2026)

This presentation offers a clinically grounded framework for understanding how cultural, historic, and sociopolitical factors shape the mental health experiences of Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) clients. Drawing from clinical practice and lived experience, the presenters explore cultural values such as family centrality, honor, and collectivism, alongside systemic barriers including stigma, mistrust, and underrepresentation. Special attention is given to identity development, intergenerational conflict, trauma, and LGBTQ+ considerations within MENA contexts. Participants will gain practical tools for culturally responsive care, deepen their understanding of nuanced client presentations, and learn how to adapt therapeutic approaches to build trust and provide more effective culturally attuned treatment. Learning Objectives: Identify key cultural values and how they impact clinical presentation and help-seeking behaviors among MENA clients. Recognize common barriers to care and how these may show up in the therapy room. Apply culturally responsive strategies to adapt therapeutic approaches when working with MENA clients, including addressing identity-related complexities (e.g. immigration, LGBTQ+ identity). Bio(s): Perla Hollow, M.A., LMFT, (she/her) is a first-generation immigrant from Beirut, Lebanon and a Middle Eastern therapist in private practice in Manhattan Beach, CA. Susan Abdel-Haq, M.A., LMFT, (she/her) is a second generation Palestinian and a licensed psychotherapist practicing in California. Sponsor (Silver Level): AdvancedMD. Cloud-based, all-in-one practice management platform built for behavioral health providers—EHR, scheduling, billing, telehealth, and patient engagement tools, with a system geared toward smaller practices (solo to 3–4 person private practices or group practices). Currently offering a 30-day free trial. Contact: 800-825-0224, info@advancedmd.com, advancedmd.com