Problem:
My cultural background as an African American woman from a small community in Mississippi has shaped how I see people, relationships, and healing. Growing up in a tight-knit family taught me the importance of respect, shared values, and strong support systems. Because of this, I naturally approach counseling with warmth, empathy, and a focus on building trust. I also understand the impact that stigma, limited access to care, and generational beliefs can have on someone's willingness to seek help. At the same time, I recognize that my own experiences may create assumptions I need to be aware of. For example, I sometimes expect clients to value openness or emotional expression the way my family does, but not every culture sees vulnerability the same way. I also have to check biases about parenting styles, religious beliefs, or the way mental health is discussed in other communities. Being aware of these tendencies helps me slow down, listen without judgment, and ask instead of assume. According to Sue and Sue (2022), counselors must actively examine their cultural assumptions to avoid unintentionally harming clients, especially those from marginalized groups. A real-world example is working with a client whose culture views mental health as a private family matter. They may feel uncomfortable speaking openly or may prefer involving elders or spiritual leaders in decision-making. To remain culturally competent, I would adapt by asking about their cultural values, learning what support systems matter most to them, and respecting their preferences. Research shows that cultural. Need Assignment Help?