Chapter 8

In chapter 8, Brown (2016) explains how to implement the eight steps of the value based multicultural career counseling system.  Step 1 consists of assessing cultural variables. As counselors, we should be aware and sensitive towards cultural dilemmas that may present themselves within our clients. It’s important to be informed of cultural preferences and affiliations like language, customs, and relationships that could impact the counseling experience.

Step 2 looks at communication style and establishing relationships. Assumptions of preferred verbal and nonverbal communication styles can be culturally insensitive, and could negatively impact the development of a therapeutic relationship with a client. Counselors should take in consideration the cultural differences in verbal styles and values of major subgroups.

Step 3 is selecting a decision-making model. When using a career model, it’s important to understand that there may not be a single model that is used in the counseling process. Counselors should work with clients on finding an appropriate fit that may consist of multiple models that will accomplish the goals and objectives. It’s important to determine who is making the decision. Next, is to identify the decision maker’s expectations, as well as the counselors.

Step 4 is the identification of career issues. If a client is experiencing difficulty in meeting basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter; then the counselor may need to involve short-term help and resources to address these needs. A pattern of identification assessment can be utilized, and begins by asking the client to focus on one activity, and identify times when it was/ and was not enjoyable. It should be explored in more detail to identify themes.

Step 5 and 6 are the establishment of culturally appropriate goals and the selection of culturally appropriate interventions.  Culturally appropriate goals are set by the client. The counselor can then engage in the role of a translator of social values, mediator, and peacemaker that can assist each party involved with agreeing upon mutual objectives.   

Step 7 is the implementation and evaluation of the interventions used. The client would implement the identified strategies to achieve their goals. Counselors will need to transfer skills needed to incorporate the personal and contextual information gained in the assessment process, and apply it within their careers and/or lifestyle. It is important to follow up with clients through evaluations to assess for client satisfaction and the overall quality of the counselor’s work.  

Step 8 is advocacy. Advocacy is used as a way to address issues that affect job entry and any other ways that could limit and/or ostracize individuals in society. Various forms of advocacy exist including transferring skills to clients so that they can be their own advocates or encouraging clients to shadow possible occupations that they are interested in. It requires risk-taking and information, which can be acquire from the Internet. Various websites can help keep counselors and clients updated on current events and developments in the career counseling field.

 

Reference

Brown, D. (2016). Career information, career counseling, and career development (11^thed.). New York: Pearson Education, Inc.