Reference no: EM133425288

Assignment:

Because cultural distance-similarity is a social construct, the perception and definition of differences is based on both our socialization and personal choices. The client Sarah requires me to use persuasive skills to convince Sarah to engage in the therapeutic process. Despite the mandatory therapy, clients who have a good-quality relationship with their therapist exhibit many positive clinical outcomes: increased quality of life, adhering to medication, adherence to treatment, and symptom reduction (Hatchel, Vogel, & Huber, 2019). My goal with Sarah would be to emphasize our therapeutic alliance and build a space where she feels comfortable to authentically engage in the therapeutic process.

Another client I would need to develop competencies in is Abila. I would need to adjust my attitude towards her seemingly inevitable marriage. This involves me avoiding the role of the expert because I would not know the whole context of her culture and situation (Shebib, 2020). I would also have to learn the cultural norms of her family. In my Canadian culture, once children reach adulthood, their parent's directions are completely optional rather than mandatory instruction. I would have to learn the skill of active listening in order to let the client determine the direction of their path.

Hachtel, H., Vogel, T., & Huber, C. G. (2019). Mandated treatment and its impact on therapeutic process and outcome factors. Frontiers in psychiatry, 10, 219.

Shebib, B. (2020). Choices: Interviewing and counselling skills for Canadians (7th ed.). Pearson Canada Inc.