Cultures and Psychology APS IG Newsletter - APS Member Groups

Cultures and Psychology APS IG Newsletter
April
2012
TIP SHEET- Competence
By Bill Johnson
The growing ethnocultural diversity within Australia has significantly increased
the interaction between different cultural groups. As a result of this trend there
is a growing need for practitioners to implement a more culturally sensitive
approach to clinical practice. Several scholars have specifically echoed the
necessity for practitioners to implement a culturally sensitive approach to
working with CALD groups. Indeed, there is a large body of research which has
operationalised the essence of cultural sensitivity. This includes cultural
awareness, understanding one’s own cultural background and belief system as
well as that of CALD groups, understanding, sensitivity, and competence.
However, the question remains as to specifically what therapist’s behaviors
exemplify cultural sensitivity? Confronted with this question, we have identified
several important elements in facilitating culturally competent
counselling/therapy
During an assessment interview, embed the interview questions in a
conversational flow – avoid an interrogatory questioning style
Use the questions on the Cultural Awareness Tool to elicit the client’s
explanatory model
Be open about your own lack of knowledge of the client’s culture – do
not be reluctant to ask about what you don’t know
If you know who your client will be, do some reading about the client's
cultural background, but do not assume it will fit the client. Be prepared
for a client who varies from his/her cultural groups.
Openly ask the client about his/her experiences of cultural adjustment.
Be prepared to explore any cultural differences which exist between you
and the client, such an exploration may offer an opportunity to gain more
insight into the client’s own background as well as reduce distance
between therapist and client
Be honest about your lack of knowledge about the client’s culture, it is
not realistic to know everything.
Take a curious approach; ask the client what would help him/her discuss
openly about difficult issues
Express genuine concern through verbal and non-verbal behaviour after
taking into account the silent communication style.
DO NOT make unrealistic promises,
Culture and Psychology APS IG Newsletter July 2011 Page 4