The presentation discusses recent research conducted to explore South African immigrant psychologists’ experience of the therapeutic relationship with their New Zealand clients. The aim was to address the gap in understanding of how the increasing number of immigrant psychologists in New Zealand work with and experience the therapeutic relationship with their clients. The psychologists conceptualised the therapeutic relationship as vital, complex and necessary for good therapy, and that an openness, willingness and compassion facilitated the relationship, whereas assumptions, mistrust and biases hindered it. They experienced the many challenges and benefits of being a migrant as assisting in them building rapport with their clients, and that the cultural differences, shared history and values contributed to their conceptualisation of the therapeutic relationship. The implications of the research are discussed.