Mental health professionals have an ethical responsibility to make every reasonable effort to reduce bias, prejudice and discrimination based on a variety of cultural similarities and differences. Unfortunately, unintentional cultural offenses and misunderstandings often contribute to ethical dilemmas and disconnected personal and professional relationships. In addition, professionals often feel paralyzed by the fear of not knowing enough about other cultures to try to effectively support those different than themselves. This session equips helping professionals in their effort to meet and maintain ethical standards by reducing the likelihood of unintentional cultural offenses and misunderstandings as well as repair relationships damaged by cultural offenses. This relationship-focused session will provide practical language and strategies for reducing tensions and perceived barriers and helping strengthen cross-cultural relationships.