Question

What cultural considerations should a culturally mindful therapist take into account when counseling a Middle Eastern person living in the United States and what type of counseling techniques with they use ?

Answer 1

The therapist should consider the following aspects of Middle Eastern while providing their service;

• Cultural stigma associated with mental illness in the Middle Eastern culture.
• Individuals would seek counseling service only when it is the last resort.
• The therapist should understand the importance of family in the process of healing and counseling.
• Therapist should have an understanding about the importance of religion and traditions in their lives.

The techniques that should be used are:

• Reflective listening.
• Empathetic undertsanding and approach.
• The therapist should check their own bias against the culture and individuals that would hinder the counseling process and its optimal outcomes.
• Should be individual centered.
• Respect for their culture and cultural identity.
• The therapist should avoid judgemental attitudes towards the client.