Multi-Cultural Counselor

Learn how to become a Multi-Cultural Counselor and why you might want to...

Since 2000 the United States unauthorized immigration population has increased by 3.3 million. In 2007 alone over 1 million people became legal permanent residents.1 These numbers mean a continual increase in the representation of minorities in our population. Adjusting to a new country brings a unique set of challenges and multi cultural counselors can help make the transition easier.

When immigrants come into a new country, they often have family or friends waiting to help integrate them into the area and culture. However, the difficulties arise when help is needed from outside of their core group.

Multi-cultural counselors have the unique skill of understanding. This means complete awareness of their own background and biases as well as the beliefs, values and challenges of other cultures. This is a key factor in their ability to help minorities. These groups struggle with mental health problems just as much as non-minorities but are much less likely to receive help. Some of the most common reasons are low income (possibly no insurance), language barriers and a different set of beliefs.

Communication is an extremely important step toward getting help. Diagnosis and treatment depends on the client’s ability to explain their feelings and concerns. For those seeking group therapy, they cannot receive the benefits unless they understand those around them and have the opportunity to participate in discussion. Multi-cultural counselors address this issue by increasing their own knowledge of other languages and organizing groups specific to a culture.

Other challenges are more complicated and require a cultural counselor who is flexible. Some cultures are ashamed by mental illnesses, often they will wait until there is a serious problem before looking for help. This means the counselor must be prepared to address multiple issues and provide coping methods in a short period of time. In addition, some people place a higher value on religion and family involvement and may have extended family members present for the sessions. A counselor educated in race and culture respects these important factors and will adjust their methods to suit.

The United States has always been considered a melting pot; it is one attribute that makes our country unique. Therefore it is important to help new people mesh while allowing them to keep their values and beliefs intact. Multi-cultural counselors have the opportunity create a standard of respect for other people’s differences. Request information about graduate programs in counseling and help provide this growing service to minorities.

Request information from schools offering Counseling degree programs. Also, learn more about the counseling licensing process and what the requirements for licensure are: Counseling Licensure.

Resources:
1 www.dhs.gov