Multicultural Counseling

Multicultural counseling is the practice of providing culturally appropriate care by using relevant theories and interventions that are consistent with the client's cultural background. It is a shift from [Page 1527]traditional methods and treatment modalities to new ways of conceptualizing a client, taking into account variables such as an individual's identity: race, ethnicity, gender, class, and sexual orientation. It involves incorporating techniques and skills that are applicable and effective in enhancing the psychological and emotional well-being of culturally diverse clients. Counselors and therapists need to gain an understanding of the client's worldview and contextual factors in order to establish rapport and build trust in the therapeutic relationship. Furthermore, counselors and therapists may need to expand on the traditional role to include being a supportive advocate ...