Culture, Migration & Identity Members

Feelings Across Languages

Explore how feelings change between your languages.

1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Culture, Migration & Identity

Key facts

Approach / concern
Culture, Migration & Identity
Technique
Culture, Migration & Identity
Format
Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
Access
Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
For
Licensed clinicians to use with clients
Updated
November 2026

What is Feelings Across Languages?

Explore how feelings change between your languages. Some feelings land differently, or only exist, in a certain language. You are welcome to use any language in this work.

When to use it

  • Clients navigating two or more cultures
  • Newcomers, refugees and second-generation clients
  • Family pressure, stigma or shame about seeking help
  • Experiences of racism or exclusion

How to use it in session

  1. Explain the purpose and check that the client wants to do this.
  2. Complete the table: feeling, word in my first language, what it really means.
  3. Things that are easier to say in one language.
  4. Words from my family that still affect me.
  5. Agree one small next step.

Clinician tips

  • Ask what these ideas mean in the client’s own culture and family; do not assume.
  • Avoid framing family closeness or duty as a problem to fix.
  • Invite the client to use any language or word that fits.

Sharing with clients

Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.

This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.