In this article I wish to demonstrate the value of a quality relationship and good communication in the therapeutic process of counselling and psychotherapy. From the very first session, it is important to establish a trusting interaction between the client and the therapist in order to achieve a correct assessment and to establish a meaningful…

Even though literature indicates that particular cultural groups receive more severe diagnoses at disproportionate rates, there has been minimal research that addresses how culture interfaces specifically with clinical decision making. This mixed methodological study of 41 counselors indicated that cultural characteristics of both counselors and…

This paper reviewed the current state of research literature on factors affecting utilization of university counseling services by Asian American students. The study was divided into two parts: one examined literature that focused exclusively on Asian American college students; the other explored Asian American utilization by examining studies…

With the addition of the Board of Ethnic Minority Affairs to the American Psychological Association and the observation that greater numbers of ethnic minorities are seeking psychological treatment, a growing area of research has been related to ethnic issues in psychotherapy. Many empirical studies have been conducted comparing psychotherapy…

Four steps are critical in developing cultural competence in students: (1) a supportive training program; (2) a significant number or "critical mass" of culturally diverse students and allies; (3) opportunities to learn about diversity; and (4) development of racial identity. An appreciation of cultural diversity lies at the heart of any…

Cultural awareness enlarges the world view of traditional counseling methodologies that teach that the dominant society's values are the healthy norms to use in assessing and assisting ethnic groups. A dominant society counselor or therapist can be more effective in helping members of other groups by utilizing self-awareness and developing a…