Episode #63 - Cultural Humility in the Therapy Room: Repair, Power, and Identity in Clinical Practice with Dr. Lauren Wadsworth
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Episode Summary: At a moment of expanding awareness and increasing constraint, clinicians are more attuned than ever to the potential for harm in the therapy room—yet many feel uncertain about how to respond when identity, power, and politics arise in session.
In this episode, we explore cultural humility as a clinical stance, not a buzzword:
- What it means to practice with ongoing self-reflection, accountability, and repair
- How to navigate backlash, polarization, and institutional limits
- How to adapt evidence-based treatments through a culturally humble lens
- What it looks like to redistribute power, mitigate harm, and stay present when the work feels risky
Our guest is Dr. Lauren Wadsworth, clinical psychologist, consultant, and co-founder of Twin Stars Diversity Trainers. Dr. Wadsworth brings deep clinical experience and a justice-oriented lens to the nuanced terrain where identity and therapy intersect.
Whether you’re a seasoned clinician or in training, this conversation will challenge you to think differently about identity, power, harm, and ethics in everyday practice.
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About Our Guest: Dr. Lauren Wadsworth, PsyD, ABPP is:
- Co-founder, Mental Health Network and Training Institute (MHNTI) — a national platform for sustainable, identity-responsive clinical training
- Founder & Director of Genesee Valley Psychology — an insurance-based practice expanding access to evidence-based treatment
- Co-founder of Twin Stars Diversity Trainers, offering system-level consultation to practices and institutions
- Co-author of Did That Just Happen?! Beyond “Diversity”: Creating Sustainable and Inclusive Organizations
- Senior Advisor on Anti-Racist, Justice, and Health Equity at McLean Hospital
- Clinical Senior Instructor in Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center
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Helpful Links & Resources:
🔗 Mental Health Network and Training Institute (MHNTI)
https://www.mhnti.com/
🔗 Genesee Valley Psychology & Training Collaborative
https://gviproc.org/
🔗 Twin Stars Diversity Trainers
https://www.twinstardiversity.com/
📘 Did That Just Happen?! Beyond “Diversity” — Book
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/670590/did-that-just-happen-by-dr-stephanie-pinder-amaker-and-dr-lauren-wadsworth/
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Conflict of Interest Disclosures:
The host, Shaina Siber-Sanderowitz, LCSW, is the Founder of Affirm Mental Health, an accredited CE provider. She receives financial compensation from Affirm Mental Health for the development and delivery of continuing education content. There are no other conflicts of interest to disclose.
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for clinical training or treatment. If you or someone you know needs mental health support, please reach out to a licensed professional.
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