Cultural Competence Paper

Words: 1070
Pages: 5

Introduction Cultural competence is crucial in counseling as it enables counselors to comprehend and appreciate the cultural differences of their clients, thereby providing the best possible care. Failing to possess cultural competence is an ethical concern and can lead clients to discontinue therapy sessions. Counselors must never forget that each individual is unique, with their own beliefs, values, opinions, experiences, cultures, and backgrounds. A culturally competent counselor can set aside their perspectives and embrace diversity to establish an authentic and trusting therapeutic relationship. Implicit bias is a universal experience, whether one is conscious of it or not. Therefore, it is of utmost importance, especially for counselors, …show more content…
As an African American, she can effectively connect with clients of the same race, even if we have differing beliefs, experiences, and values. Clients feel more at ease when speaking with a counselor who shares their racial background. Due to her preference for white people, she is more open and accepting of them. Her most significant asset lies in accepting individuals from all walks of life, regardless of their background or past actions. She is always eager to expand her knowledge of various cultures, religions, and sexual orientations, essential for cultural competence. She must admit that during race tests, she experienced frustration when she consistently made mistakes in responses related to black individuals after the switch from white to black. She aims to enhance her cultural competence by focusing on cultural paradigms and deferential communication. Address Growth and Increase in Competence According to the American Counseling Association (2014), Multicultural/Diversity Counseling involves counselors' awareness of cultural and diversity issues and their knowledge about themselves and