In thinking about yourself as the counseling and human services provider, how might your own ethnicity play a role in the counseling process in working with an African American client if you do not identify with this rich and vibrant culture?

This week the focus is on African American culture as well as African American individuals in US society. Although public segregation and job discrimination were outlawed in 1964, the ramifications of these practices are still present in today’s society.

From this week’s readings please share with the class at least one assumption about African American culture in the US. Please discuss the ramifications of this assumption within US society as well as share how a counseling and human services professionals can work to cease the perpetuation of this assumption in their work.
In addition, identify and discuss at least two cultural considerations that may facilitate and two cultural considerations that may impede the therapeutic process when working with an African American client. If you identify as being a member of African American culture, please be sure to share how this might impact your work with clients of diverse cultures further.
In thinking about yourself as the counseling and human services provider, how might your own ethnicity play a role in the counseling process in working with an African American client if you do not identify with this rich and vibrant culture?