Do you ever experience a sense of not fitting in?
Do you feel pulled between home and the place you live now?
You are not alone. Many people feel this way. Here, we will help you start. We will keep things simple and kind.
What Is Cultural Identity?
Cultural identity is who you feel you are because of your family, your traditions, and your past.
It includes the food you grew up with, the songs you heard, the words you use, and the rules at home.
It also includes the new things you learn where you live now. All these pieces make you, you.
Why You Might Feel Lost
You can feel lost for many reasons.
Maybe you moved to a new city. Maybe your family expects one thing, but you want another. Maybe people around you do not understand your home life.
When you try to fit into two places, you can feel split. That can feel lonely and heavy. It can make it hard to know who you are.
Signs You May Be Struggling
You might notice small signs. These are real and OK to feel:
- You hide parts of yourself at school or work.
- You feel guilty when you choose new ideas.
- You miss home but also want to change.
- You respond with “I don’t know” when asked about your origin.
- You feel tired or anxious about family events.
If any of these feel familiar, you deserve help and care.
Where Do You Begin?
Start with one small step. You need not worry about repairing all at once.
- Name one feeling. Express it verbally or note it down.
- Notice when you mimic others. Ask yourself why you do it.
- Talk to one person you trust. It may be a friend, a teacher, or a counselor.
- Do something different that is like you. A song, a food, or a book.
Small steps add up.
How Therapy Can Help (Individual Therapy)
Therapy is a calm place to talk. In one-on-one sessions, a therapist listens without judgment. We help you find your own answer. Here is how therapy can help:
- We give you space to tell your story.
- We help you sort mixed feelings.
- We teach simple tools for stress and worry.
- We help you set small goals to try new things safely.
- We support you when family or culture feels hard.
At Hope Springs Psychotherapy, our therapists meet you where you are. We know New York City life can be fast and loud. We know family traditions are deep and important. We help you hold both safely.
What to Expect in Your First Session
Your first visit is simple. You will talk about what brought you in. You can share what feels hard. The therapist will ask about your life and what you want. You do not have to share everything. You are in control.
Therapy can be short or long. Some people meet for a few sessions. Others meet for many months. We work at your pace.
Tips to Try Between Sessions
- Keep a small journal. Write one line a day.
- Make a list of things from home that make you feel safe.
- Practice one deep breath when you feel stuck. Inhale deeply for four seconds, then exhale for four seconds.
- Say one kind thing to yourself each morning.
- Try talking about one small worry with a friend.
These steps help you feel steadier.
When Family and Culture Feel Hard
Talking about cultural rules can be scary. You may fear family disappointment. A therapist can help you pick words to say. We can help you plan safe steps to talk with family. We also help you keep the parts of culture that matter to you.
Why Hope Springs Psychotherapy Can Help
We work with people like you. Numerous clients we serve are young adults residing in New York City. They balance school, work, family, and culture. Our team uses culturally informed care. That means we know how culture shapes feelings and choices.
Our practice is led by Ladi Agahiu. We listen with respect. We bring kindness and clear help. We help you find your voice. We help you make choices that feel right to you.
You Are Not Broken
Feeling lost does not mean you are broken. It means you are human. It means you care about where you came from and where you are going. It is okay to ask for help.
If you want a gentle place to start, we are here. We offer individual therapy that respects your story. You can take one small step. You don’t have to face it by yourself.
If you are ready, reach out to Hope Springs Psychotherapy. We will help you find the first step. We will walk with you, one step at a time.
FAQs
Q. Why do I feel lost?
You may be pulled between two places. That can feel confusing and sad.
Q. What happens in the first session?
We talk about what brought you in. You decide how much to share.
