Reference no: EM133351090
In an effort to develop strong skills, discuss how you would address culturally specific focus in the session with the client. Discuss how you would address trauma-focused care specific focus into the session with the client. Use citations and references. See discussion below.
Grief affects individuals of all backgrounds. Individuals of Hispanic ethnicity are at an increased risk for depression, including depression triggered by grief (Hovey, 2000). In working with a Hispanic male client struggling with grief, cognitive behavioral therapy is preferred over solution-focused therapy. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment for depression that can be modified to be culturally sensitive. It is also a preferred modality for grief work (Simmons & Griffiths, 2017). The concepts of CBT, which include being nonjudgmental, emphasizing strengths, and empowering the clients, can assist clients in overcoming depressive symptoms. CBT methods align with the direct guidance, problem-solving, and advice that Hispanic cultures seek from professionals (Interian & Diaz-Martinez, 2007). CBT encourages the active role of the therapist in the session. This approach promotes the role of the therapist as the expert in the room. CBT also allows time for rapport and trust building through small talk, a communication strategy valued by traditional Hispanic culture.
Familismo is an important cultural value in Hispanic culture in which a high value is placed on family and tradition (Interian & Diaz-Martinez, 2007). The family structure is hierarchal, with men viewed as superior and heads of the family. In working with a 45-year-old Hispanic male, it is logical that the death of his wife would have a significant impact on his functioning, both as a source of grief as well as an adjustment within the family. Religion also plays a significant role in the lives of many Hispanic clients. These are important cultural factors to remember in working with the client in this scenario. Culturally informed CBT allows the clinician to challenge unhelpful cognitions while honoring the client's cultural values. The use of CBT techniques offers an opportunity to deliver evidence-based therapy services that are sympathetic to the beliefs and values of Hispanic clients, making it superior to SFT in this scenario.