Satir's Efficient Counselor/Client Communication Theory
462 Words2 Pages
Due to a history of weak mental health care among diverse populations, the philosophy of creating a culturally competent mental health system has begun to take shape. The immense growth of diversity within the United States has led most local, state, and government agencies to develop guidelines for education in cultural competency in an attempt to promote effective care to all populations (Stanley, 2006). The ongoing effort to eradicate treatment inconsistencies across varying sectors of the population is a necessity within the counseling field. Mental health counselors must be knowledgeable about the important customs, beliefs, language, superstitions, etc., of diverse cultures considering these areas can significantly affect treatment planning and expected outcomes (Fredrick & Marinelli, 2014). Since it would be impractical to expect a mental health professional to be completely versed the specifics of every culture and subculture, efficient counselor/client communication is essential. The following will explore Satir’s communications theory as a theoretical approach to cultural competency, the importance of communication with multicultural clients in three specific areas (help-seeking behaviors,…show more content… of the client. Although gaining multicultural knowledge through a review of literature can be extremely advantageous, it is only one part of cultural competency in its entirety. The use of skillful communication techniques and interventions with diverse individuals allows clients to better convey their respective views and gives counselors improved understanding of their position. Without that clarity, counselors may unknowingly disregard or offend a client resulting in an unsalvageable therapeutic