Therapy is often seen as a place for healing, but at its core, it’s also a space for transformation, self-discovery, and empowerment. In our latest episode of Yellow Chair Collective, we sat down with Nadia Islam, a licensed clinical supervisor, to explore the power of evidence-based therapy, cultural humility, and how embracing our values can lead to a more fulfilling life.
Through her experiences as a therapist, Nadia sheds light on what truly makes therapy effective—not just for individuals, but for communities as a whole.
Key Lessons from the Conversation
1. Therapy Should Be Evidence-Based—But Also Culturally Humble
Many people assume that therapy is simply about talking through problems, but the most effective therapists use evidence-based practices—approaches that have been researched and proven to work.
However, cultural humility is just as important. Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. Every person brings their own history, identity, and values into the room. A culturally humble approach acknowledges the limitations of research and prioritizes collaboration and respect for diverse experiences.
“Therapy should not be a rigid, prescriptive process—it should be a partnership where the client’s voice leads the way.
– Nadia Islam
2. Accepting Reality Can Be the First Step Toward Change
A common challenge in therapy is resistance to reality—wishing things were different, avoiding painful truths, or holding onto unrealistic expectations.
Nadia emphasizes that acceptance is not the same as giving up. Instead, it means making peace with what is, so you can focus on what’s within your control.
- Letting go of “shoulds” and unrealistic expectations
- Acknowledging difficult emotions without letting them define you
- Moving towards what truly aligns with your values, rather than avoiding discomfort
3. The Power of Voice and Client Advocacy
Many clients enter therapy feeling unheard or unseen. That’s why one of the most crucial roles of a therapist is to help clients find their voice—whether in relationships, at work, or within themselves.
- Therapy should empower clients to make their own decisions.
- The therapist’s job is to guide, not dictate—helping clients articulate their needs and set boundaries.
Self-judgment holds us back, but approaching our struggles with curiosity leads to greater self-acceptance.
“It’s not about finding the ‘right’ answers—it’s about asking the right questions.”
– Nadia Islam
4. Redefining Love & Relationships
Many of us have grown up with the idea that unconditional love should exist in all relationships. But is that always healthy or realistic?
Nadia challenges this belief, pointing out that in adult relationships, reciprocity and mutual respect matter just as much as love. Love should never come at the expense of one’s well-being.
Instead of focusing on whether someone is the “right” person, she suggests looking at:
- The dynamics of the relationship (Is it supportive, balanced, and fulfilling?)
- The values you share (Are you aligned in what truly matters?)
- Your own needs and boundaries (Are you able to be your full self?)
Why This Conversation Matters
Therapy isn’t just about solving problems—it’s about building a life that aligns with your values. Through Nadia’s insights, we’re reminded that true healing happens when we:
✅ Let go of rigid expectations
✅ Define what truly matters to us
✅ Embrace curiosity over self-judgment
✅ Create relationships built on reciprocity and respect
If you’re on a journey of self-discovery, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen to the full conversation on Yellow Chair Collective here and explore more episodes on therapy, identity, and personal growth.
Follow Yellow Chair
- Entwine Community: https://entwinecommunity.org/
- Yellow Chair Collective: https://yellowchaircollective.com/
- IG: https://www.instagram.com/yellowchaircollective/?hl=en
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@yellowchaircollective
Seek An Individual Therapist at Yellow Chair Collective in Los Angeles or New York
If you are seeking therapy specifically tailored to your needs, consider reaching out to the therapists at Yellow Chair Collective. We understand that there may be unique contextual factors that may influence your experiences.
At our Los Angeles, CA, and New York City, NY-based therapy practice, we have many skilled, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive therapists who can provide an empowering therapeutic experience. For your added convenience and simplicity, we offer online therapy for anyone in the state of California or New York. We know that navigating your growth journey can be challenging, and we want to support you along the way. Follow the steps below to begin.
- Fill out the contact form to get connected with us.
- Get matched with one of our culturally sensitive therapists.
- Start the next step in your healing journey today.
Other Services at Yellow Chair Collective
There are many options for treatment using online therapy in California and New York, it just depends on what you’re needing. And while we certainly service Asian American folks, we also work with individuals from other cultures, too. So, whether you’re needing support in overcoming anxiety, burnout, trauma, or PTSD, we can help. Likewise, we serve teens and couples in need of support, too. So when you start online therapy with us, you can bring your whole self, including past struggles, cultural impacts, and more.
