Help Needed

Respond to the following in a minimum of 175 words each question, post must be substantive responses: 

1. What are some challenges that counselors may face when working with a person who is of an ethnic minority and who has a clinical mental health disorder? What strategies can counselors use to overcome these challenges? 

Respond to classmates in a minimum of 175 words each person, post must be substantive responses: 

C.G.

Many ethnic minorities are still ambivalent about meeting with counselors because it is still seen by many as a "White person's" activity. In our previous readings, it has been noted that counseling is based on European influence with regard to a specific cultures of that continent. This means that many who are not of European ancestry see counseling as outside of their norm because it is not customary for them to have access to counseling.

Also, many ethnic minorities fear that being labeled with a clinical mental health disorder can lead to be isolated as crazy, or "loco" in many traditional Mexican-American communities. Even being known for seeing a counselor can be viewed as a stigma in their own ethnic community. Our book comments on this issue in Asian cultures, as well: " among traditional Asian groups, going for psychological help may bring shame and disgrace to the family (“being crazy”)" (Sue & Sue, 2016, p. 255).

In order to be an effective counselor with a person who is unfamiliar with the counseling profession, specifically a member of an ethnic minority, it would be beneficial to find a counselor who has a common bond with the person or guardian. This would include having a counselor with a similar background or one who has understanding of the client's culture, perhaps even speaks the same language. Having a counselor with a similar background would at least provide a calming environment during the initial session, explaining to the client that the counselor's sole job is to help them. Also, the counselor could point out that in order to help the client, it would be necessary to speak with them openly, not to diagnose them initially, but rather to work on finding out why the problem is occurring and how they can be guided to work through it.

Also, due to the client's being unfamiliar with the counseling process, it would be wise to be even more patient than with other clients who are familiar with the process, as well. It is important to explain in a subsequent session, after their client's trust is earned, that a mental health disorder can be treated over time and improve the person's quality of life. It is important to bear in mind that what is normal to the client may seem abnormal to the counselor, and the counselor should empathize with the client.

Sue, D. W., & Sue, D. (2016). Counseling the culturally diverse: Theory and practice. (7 th ed.). Hoboken, NJ:

John Wiley & Sons .

S.G.

A counselor who began working with a client from a different ethnic minority can be challenging initially. However, to place a clinical mental disorder on top of that may be nerve wrecking at first. A counselor can take the time to address any concerns or questions the client may have regarding the differences. With these questions or concerns the counselor will be able to see exactly what the challenge may be or at least where they stem from. The counselor must also remind the client that their work, education and skills ha nothing to do with providing the client with the help they are seeking. It is also the counselors responsibility to be competent not only on the cultural background of the client, but his/her mental health disorder as well. There also may be things that the counselor has concerns about as well. Such as language barriers or comprehension issues, the counselor encounter these issues then they must address them immediately. These factors will play a huge role on progress of them client, the counselor must decided if he/she should refer their client to a more equip counselor.