Iranian clients' aberurizi (secret-self) in the consulting room: an existential perspective using narrative and structural existential analyses

This study aimed to explore the existential experiences of Iranian clients and psychotherapists, focusing on aberurizi within mental health. Drawing on aberurizi literature, it examined the psychological impact of stigma, shame, and the secret self in Iranian culture and their implications for cross-cultural psychotherapy. A systematic review identified research gaps, aiming to foster cultural sensitivity, guide mental health policies, and establish a foundation for future studies.

The methodology followed the PRISMA (2020) checklist, with AMSTAR and GRADE assessments ensuring high-quality analysis from 2003 onwards. Narrative and structural existential analysis was employed, and eight Iranian clients and therapists—aged 35–63 years, UK residents for at least seven years, and recently in therapy—were engaged.

Findings highlighted how cultural norms and aberurizi influence therapy, with stigma and the secret-self shaping lived experiences. Trust emerged as essential, underscoring the role of cultural competence and the interplay between therapists’ backgrounds and trust-building in multicultural settings.

In conclusion, this research illuminates Iranian clients’ and therapists’ experiences, emphasising cultural sensitivity in mental health practices. It contributes to existential psychotherapy by addressing aberurizi in therapeutic contexts, advocating ongoing cultural competence training, and encouraging further exploration of aberurizi across diverse cultural frameworks.