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Understanding a Client's Cultural Structure

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When Ernie stated that, "I also must not be closed-minded to new ideas and possibilities for each client I work with on how to best approach and treat them," - does that necessarily mean that one's own personal values might become compromised? For example, in our society, the "power" in the family is assumed to be either with the client's spouse, or with the eldest male in the family. Some cultures within our society are very matriarchal, however, with the eldest female in the family holding the greatest power. If working with a person from this particular matriarchal culture, the therapist who understands this dynamic will get the client's grandmother involved, if possible, rather than the client's father, uncle, brother or spouse. Without being open to this possibility, however, a culture-bound therapist might miss a valuable opportunity to help the client. What are your thoughts about this?

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The client's cultural structures understanding is examined. Culture-bound therapists for valuable opportunities are provided.

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I do not believe that a therapist's own personal values become compromised when treating someone of a different culture. The therapist will likely interact with several various cultures throughout their professional tenure and it is important that a therapist be firm in their own beliefs however, remain flexible enough to not become too bias or prejudice as it ...

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