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Navigating Cultural Belonging as a Filipino American

Published on: Published in: Asian American Mental Health

For Filipino Americans, life is a delicate balance between embracing a rich, family-centered heritage and adapting to the independence-driven culture of the United States. Many find themselves navigating an intricate dance between two identities, each carrying its own distinct values and expectations.  

A woman smiles at the camera while wearing a traditional filipino dress. Learn more about how an Asian American therapist in California can offer support by contacting a culturally sensitive therpaist Los Angeles, CA. They can offer cultuarlly sensitive therapy in New York and across California.

Embracing Two Worlds 

In an intimate conversation on cultural belonging, Filipino-American mental health advocates Alyssa Mancao and Helen Garcia discussed the nuanced experiences that often define the Filipino-American identity. Here, we share some of their insights, including practical takeaways for those who may feel they are living between two worlds.

Highlights from the Discussion 

  • Family First vs. Individualism: Filipino culture prioritizes family loyalty and interconnectedness. In the U.S., however, independence and personal ambition are often seen as virtues, creating a complex space for Filipino Americans to find their place.
  • Bridging Generational Gaps: For Filipino Americans raised by immigrant parents, cultural differences can lead to misunderstandings. The expectations of respect, duty, and family solidarity can sometimes clash with American ideals, leading to internal struggles for many.
  • Culturally Sensitive Support Matters: Therapy with a focus on cultural sensitivity can be transformative for Filipino Americans seeking a sense of belonging. Finding a therapist who understands Filipino values provides essential support in harmonizing both cultural identities.

Key Takeaways for Filipino Americans Navigating Cultural Belonging

A close up of a group of people standing in a circle and stacking their hands. This could represent the support that an Asian American therpaist in California can offer for recognizing the importance of community. Search for multicultural therapy in Los Angeles, CA to get in contact with a culturally sensitive therapist new york
  • Honor Your Dual Identity: Embrace the strengths of both cultures. Recognize that your Filipino heritage brings a deep-rooted sense of community, while American culture encourages growth and self-expression.  
  • Understand Cultural Expectations: Recognizing the importance of family values in Filipino culture can help contextualize familial expectations. This understanding can allow you to set healthy boundaries while honoring family obligations.  
  • Seek Culturally Sensitive Support: Therapy with a culturally aware therapist can provide essential support. Speaking with someone who understands the nuances of Filipino and American cultures can help you find peace in your cultural identity.
  • Balance Independence with Community: Finding a way to value both family closeness and personal independence allows you to navigate a unique path that honors both aspects of your life.  
  • Reflect on Personal Values: Recognize when cultural obligations may conflict with your personal desires. Reflecting on what truly aligns with your identity can help you balance cultural traditions with personal authenticity.

Navigating Family and Identity with Support

If you’re struggling with your cultural identity or feeling caught between expectations, consider speaking with an Asian American therapist at Yellow Chair Collective – simply fill out our contact form below and our team will get back to you!

Many Filipino Americans find peace in culturally sensitive therapy, where they can discuss these topics in a supportive, empathetic space. 

Relevant Links

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IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/alyssamariewellness/?hl=en⁠

Seek An Individual Therapist at Yellow Chair Collective in Los Angeles or New York

A woman holds a clipboard while sitting across from a woman listening intently. This could represent the cultural support an Asian American therapist in California can offer. Search for support in CA and NY and how culturally sensitive therapy in New York can help today.

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 beginning your healing journey can be challenging, and we want to support you along the way. Follow the steps below to begin.

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.

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