How does MCT expand the practices and r

Multicultural counseling/therapy utilizes all aspects of the client’s race, ethnicity, and culture in order to individualize treatments specific to each client. The traditional practice of counseling concentrates on assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease or issue. Traditionally, the role of counselor or therapist would remain impartial and inert to the client. According to Sue and Sue (2013), “MCT involves broadening the roles that counselors play and expands the repertoire of therapy skills considered helpful and appropriate in counseling” (“What is Multicultural Counseling/Therapy?” p. 47). In the mini-lecture by Dr. Sue stresses, “MCT can be defined as both a helping role and process that uses modalities and defines goals, consistent with the life experiences and cultural values of clients.” MCT gives sense of balance to the individual approach with the collective approach and acknowledges families, significant others, communities and cultures (Sue & Sue, 2013). In MCT, the client’s social and cultural background has to be recognized because overlooking the smallest detail can create friction between the client and counselor. The counselor should acknowledge the client’s gender, racial identity, ethnic background, and financial status so they can be assessed, diagnosed and helped in a “culture –specific” manner. When client systems are involved, MCT challenges counselors to assume multiple roles when intervening on the client’s behalf. Sue and Sue (2013) states:
In many cases, for example, it is important to focus on individual clients and to encourage them to achieve insights and learn new behaviors. However, when problems of clients of color reside in prejudice, discrimination and racism of employers, educators, and neighbors or in organizational policies or practices in schools, mental health agencies, government, business and society the traditional therapeutic role appears ineffective and inappropriate. (“What is Multicultural