By: Lourdy Joseph, B.S., Clinical Intern, 2024
The Importance of Cultural Awareness in Counseling Practices is essential for providing effective and compassionate care. Culturally sensitive treatment in counseling involves recognizing and integrating a client’s cultural background and identity into therapeutic practices. When a therapist incorporates cultural sensitivity into their work, they accommodate and respect the differences in the opinions, values, and attitudes of various cultures and diverse individuals. This approach ultimately leads to the most effective treatment for each client. Additionally, culturally sensitive treatment acknowledges that symptoms of mental health disorders may vary across cultures. Therefore, therapists need to understand the different cultural perspectives on mental health and the counseling profession.
Understanding Cultural Symptoms within Mental Health and Culturally Sensitive Treatment
Many mental health disorders appear differently across diverse cultures. For example, what one culture considers atypical might be normal in another. Researchers state, “There are strong cultural differences in the display of emotions; that is, the social rules that guide the appropriate display of emotional expressions” (Hareli, Kafetsios, & Hess, 2015). Anger serves as an example of a universal emotion; however, the frequency, intensity, and expression of anger can differ significantly from culture to culture. Therefore, understanding the cultural norms and values surrounding symptoms is essential for providing culturally sensitive treatment to each client.
Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health and Counseling Practices
Culturally sensitive treatment recognizes that perspectives on counseling itself do not always receive positive responses. Some clients hold stigmas or distrust toward the therapeutic process based on their cultural backgrounds. While mental health affects individuals worldwide, perceptions and treatment can vary widely across cultures. Gopalkrishnan (2018) notes, “The differences in cultures have a range of implications for mental health practice, ranging from the ways that people view health and illness to treatment-seeking patterns, the nature of the therapeutic relationship, and issues of racism and discrimination.” Understanding these cultural perspectives is crucial for effective counseling.
The Importance of Language in Culturally Sensitive Treatment
Culturally sensitive treatment emphasizes the importance of language in clients’ experiences. Language plays a vital role in one’s culture, and therapists must consider it when working with clients from diverse backgrounds. They use language to express feelings, and thoughts, and communicate needs. However, clients may struggle to convey certain emotions or ideas in English. Often, the intended meaning or intensity of words, phrases, or sentences may be lost in translation.
Culturally sensitive treatment helps clients feel understood, strengthens therapeutic relationships, and leads to more positive outcomes. At Ohana Behavioral Health, we prioritize cultural awareness in our counseling practices. We ensure that our clients receive tailored support that respects their unique backgrounds and experiences. By embracing culturally sensitive treatment, we aim to create a safe and inclusive environment where all individuals feel valued and empowered in their mental health journey.
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