A Jig in Three Parts: Identity, Power and Agency in the Therapeutic Relationship between Mental-Health Counsellors and Métis Clients in British Columbia
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Issue Date
2024
Editor
Authors
Valin, Délani
License
Subject
School of communication and culture
Abstract
This study explores the relationship between mental-health counsellors and Métis counselling clients in British Columbia by including perspectives from individuals from both of these groups. The study used a transformative paradigm and a Two-Eyed Seeing framework to conduct and analyze semi-structured, qualitative conversations with eight individual participants. The literature reviewed in this study pertains to Métis identity and historical injustices, as well as cross-cultural counsellor training. The literature review then explores themes of identity, agency and power in the context of the therapeutic relationship. Findings support assertions in the literature advocating for systemic change in supporting Indigenous counselling clients and elaborates on approaches specific to Métis people. The study recommends more Métis-specific mental health resources and funding, as well as greater awareness of Métis culture for counsellors-in-training and existing counsellors. Keywords: Métis; mental health; counselling; Two-Eyed Seeing; cultural humility; identity; self-determination
Description
2024