Why feeling safe and respected is important in mental health care
Have you ever talked to someone and felt like you had to explain your whole life story just to be understood? It can be exhausting. For many Australians, getting mental health support can feel just as hard – because finding a provider who truly understands your background, identity and experiences isn’t always easy. We all deserve to be listened to with respect and awareness, in a space where we can speak honestly without fear of judgment. That feeling has a name: cultural safety.
What is cultural safety?
You may have heard it before, but it’s much more than a buzzword. It’s a key part of what makes mental health support actually work. In Australia, we talk a lot about being "culturally aware" or "inclusive". But cultural safety is a bit different. Cultural safety means you feel emotionally and personally safe when you're getting help, no matter your ethnic background, religion or gender identity. It's the feeling that you don't have to hide who you are or justify parts of your life to be understood.
Most importantly, cultural safety addresses the power imbalance that can sometimes exist between a health professional and a patient. It requires providers to look at their own biases rather than relying on a one size fits all approach. In a culturally safe space, you are the one who decides whether you feel respected and heard, not the doctor or the counsellor.
Why cultural safety makes a difference
When care feels safe and respectful, it’s easier to open up and engage. You can focus on what really matters - your thoughts, your feelings and your wellbeing. Without it, even the most qualified support can feel distant or ineffective.
Why some Australians struggle to get the support they need
Australia is a big, diverse place, but our mental health system hasn't always kept up. Not everyone has equal access to mental health care that feels safe and understanding.
According to the Grattan Institute, many people from First Nations communities, diverse cultural backgrounds or the LGBTQI+ community often feel like "outsiders" in a typical clinic. AIHW data shows that despite Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples experiencing high psychological distress at over double the rate of other Australians, they are much less likely to access Medicare-subsidised psychological care.
When a clinic doesn’t feel culturally safe, it’s more than uncomfortable - it can stop people from seeking help altogether.
Why location can also limit culturally safe care
Where you live shouldn’t get in the way of getting support. But in Australia, the further you are from a capital city, the harder it can be to find the right care.
For people in remote and regional Australia, finding a therapist is challenging, let alone someone who understands your specific life experience.
In major cities, there are about 125 psychologists for every 100,000 people. In remote areas, that number drops significantly.
Find care that fits your life and supports who you are
Everyone deserves a therapist who understands their world, respects who they are and provides culturally safe care. Online platforms like My Mirror aim to help Australians connect with psychologists who meet their needs - regardless of location. These platforms can make it easier to find someone who respects your background, identity and experiences, allowing you to focus on your wellbeing.
Ways My Mirror can help you get care that works for you:
The right person for your story: Find a psychologist who understands your background, identity and experiences - so you feel seen and respected. Instead of just being assigned to someone, you can use a matching tool to find a psychologist who fits your specific background and goals.
Quality care, no matter your postcode: Because it's all online, you can access great care even if you're in a remote town.
Explore different psychologists before choosing: Finding the right psychologist can take time and it’s completely normal if the first person you meet isn’t the perfect fit. To make this easier, eligible nib members can access up to three initial consultations with different My Mirror psychologists at no extra cost, giving you the chance to find a provider who truly meets your needs.
Access Medicare rebates when eligible: Medicare rebates are available if you’re eligible for a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan (GPMHTP) to reduce costs even further. Plus, eligible nib members can access agreed rates for 50 minute psychology sessions with My Mirror, helping lower your out of pocket costs and make it easier to stay on track with your care. It’s worth noting that nib Fund Rules and Policy booklet terms apply. For more details on no gap consultations, check your cover in your member account or by calling 13 15 42 or +61 2 9692 4300 if you’re outside Australia.
Want to learn more? Check out nib First Choice mental health for more ways we can support your wellbeing.
The information contained in this article is provided as general information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For personalised medical advice, always consult your qualified healthcare professional.