Chap 6 and 14

       I think the in class practice activity on applying multicultural career models to a case study was enlightening. The activity demonstrated the complexity of system interactions and the heterogeneity that can occur as a result of cultural variables. I can see why multicultural principles need to be incorporated into one’s overall practice with all clients. I am also aware that when cultural variables are not addressed, harm can potentially occur to the client possibly negating their worldview.

            I was really surprised that Chapter 6 only briefly mentioned sexual identity development in regards to the lesbian, gay, bi and transgendered (LGBT) community (Brown, 2012). Since sexual identity is essential for the growth and unison of one’s overall identity, I think not enough emphasis was placed on working with clients at their stage of sexual identity development. One of the main therapeutic interventions when working with this population is working towards acceptance of the self and moving the individual towards identity synthesis (Cass, 1979) of their sexual identity (McNally, 2012). This not only helps with internal struggles but addresses societal biases and ways of coping with discrimination. This therapeutic task also serves as an educational component to sexual identity. Society places a dichotomy (straight and gay) on sexual orientation however in all actuality human sexuality is on a continuum. This is evidenced by men who sleep with men (MSM), women who sleep with women (WSW), individuals who are attracted to the same sex (homosexual), and individuals who are attracted to both sexes (bisexual). Once identity pride (Cass, 1979) or the later stages are reached, the career counselor can then assist with the career development process (McNally, 2012). I also think this is where the career counselor needs to discuss self-advocacy with the client. Currently in Pennsylvania, an employer can deny a position or fire an employee for being LGBT. With this in mind, the counselor and the client need to prepare not only for this possibility but have a plan that can be taken to ensure not only financial security but a continual sense of self-worth.

            I think at one point in time, I fantasized about opening my own practice for several reasons. However after reading Chapter 14, the notion of becoming self-employed in my own practice has forever been eliminated as a career option (Brown, 2012). This became cognoscente when I read the excerpts from Knowdell and Tartaglione that 50% of the clinician’s time will be dedicated to marketing (Brown, 2012, pg. 322). I hate business and I want nothing to do with business procedures so I cannot imagine spending most of my time away from clients and dealing with the business aspect of psychotherapy.

 

Brown, D. (2012). Clients with Special Needs. In Career Information, Career Counseling, and Career Development (10th ed., pp. 117-141). New York: Pearson Education, Inc. 

 

Brown, D. (2012). Career Counselors in Private Practice: Counseling, Coaching, and Consulting. In Career Information, Career Counseling, and Career Development (10th ed., pp. 313-329). New York: Pearson Education, Inc.

 

McNally, E. B. (2012). The Coming Out Process for Lesbians and Gay Men. In A Provider's

Introduction to Substance Abuse Treatment for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Individuals (pp. 63-69). Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.