Thoughts Feelings around Counselling Welcoming Connecting Belonging Thoughts

Thoughts & Feelings around Counselling Welcoming. Connecting. Belonging.

Thoughts & feelings around Counselling • It might make me worse • I might get upset • Does going to a counsellor mean I am a failure • What would my friends think? • I don’t want to be reminded of how bad I feel • I can sort my problems on my own • It’s like saying I am weak • I feel ashamed of my problems • If I go to counselling will it all be sorted • No one can understand how I feel • I really must be in a bad situation • I don’t want to talk to a stranger • Counselling could get in the way of my career • Once you start, it may never end • Maybe I won’t like the counsellor • Suppose I won’t know what to say? Welcoming. Connecting. Belonging.

Thoughts & feelings around Counselling (comparison) Perception that a white person would not understand their problems and would not be able to help them Perception that only weak or bad people need counselling Psychological problems are out of the control of an individual since they were created by policies and forces Shameful to reveal that one has mental health concern One cannot control oneself In some cultures, disclosing personal problems is seen as disgraceful and a sign of weakness and immaturity Welcoming. Connecting. Belonging. Mental health problems are believed to be linked to immoral thoughts and actions

Thoughts & feelings around Counselling (comparison) Not valued in the one’s culture – no need to seek professional help In some countries, not only the individual with a mental illness but also the family “How can I get there during my lunch break or after work? “ “I can’t even speak good English, how can I express myself well to the counsellor? ” “Only crazy people need counselling” “What is it for? ” “The traditional view of counselling and mental health goes by the Western view which is very individualistic” Welcoming. Connecting. Belonging. There is too much stigma and shame attached to counselling

A Word from the clients: He is a good doctor but he does not have enough time. When I ask him a question, he says, “You are here for your pap test. I will answer your question Welcoming. Connecting. Belonging.

C. r. a. s. h Model • Culture: Examine your own cultural beliefs • Respect: Demonstrate respect and be mindful of your gestures; e. g. not using too much of physical touch • Assess: Language comprehension, healthliteracy, and acculturation-level • Sensitivity: Develop awareness on certain issues within a culture • Humility: learn more about cultural competency, and be quick to apologize in the event of cultural mis-steps Welcoming. Connecting. Belonging.