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

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

Welcoming. Connecting. Belonging. 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 another time.”

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, health- literacy, 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