What would you do as you approach the therapy of a person that is not of your own culture?
As therapists, it is vital for us to demonstrate comprehension of our client’s ethnicity, background, as well as the belief system (Ratts et al., 2016). Therefore, if I come across a client who is not of my own culture during therapy, I would first make an effort to understand his or her background, ethnicity, and shared beliefs. Then, I would develop a therapeutic approach that would accommodate my client’s belief and values.
Discuss ways to research a person’s culture
First, one can carry out extensive research online or via books. The internet contains numerous peer-reviewed articles and websites that can provide vast information on a person’s culture. Secondly, talking to someone from a different culture can also provide you with information about his or her culture . Finally, traveling can also provide you with information on a given culture as one lives among the cultural population.
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Explain what assumptions you should or should not make
The first assumption that I should make is that my client’s worldview is entirely different from mine (Ratts et al., 2016). Secondly, I should not assume that both my client and I belong to the same culture, hence sharing similar cultural beliefs.
What principles for counseling do you think would be universal?
The first universal principle would be the principle of respect for autonomy. Second, there is the beneficence principle. Third, there is the principle of nonmaleficence, and finally, there is the justice principle.
What principles do you think might be culture-specific ?
The principles of respect and autonomy are culture-specific as they demand the counselor to respect the cultural differences of clients.
Relate your thoughts to a real or hypothetical example
For example, when an Asian couple comes to me for marriage counseling, I would first ask them questions about their cultural beliefs, values, and practices to gain an understanding of their culture. My primary objective in the therapeutic session would be to respect my clients. Therefore, I would integrate my clients’ cultural beliefs into their treatment approach.
Reference
Ratts, M. J., Singh, A. A., Nassar-Mcmillan, S., Butler, S. K., & Mccullough, J. R. (2016). Multicultural and Social Justice Counseling Competencies: Guidelines for the Counseling Profession. Journal of Multicultural Counseling and Development, 44 (1), 28-48. doi:10.1002/jmcd.12035
