Everyone makes sense of their mental health, physical health, and general needs in a different way. And every person accesses and engages with services based on how they make sense of their needs, and also how they believe their needs will be met.

Our job is to understand their reasoning, particularly as it relates to culture or identity. Whatever serve we’re providing, we need to adapt our work to fit the client’s perspective and experience. Check out this graph from a really great SAMHSA article outlining differences.

In addition to checking in on goal consensus, another way we can get unstuck with a client is doing a bit more research (whether in session or on our own) on the varying identities and cultures affecting their life experience, so we can improve our cognitive empathy and better adapt our approach.

In July, the very knowledgeable Silvana Espinoza Lau gave a presentation on 3 things we can all do when serving BIPOC folx. Please check it out in preparation for our supervision sessions this month, and feel free to check out the post from last year on this.

Additionally, I’d love for you to do this exercise:

• make a list of everyone you work with

• next to each person’s name, write down all of the identities you can think of that are a part of their experience

• then, underline those identities you have a strong understanding of, and circle those that need more research and understanding

• bring those to session to discuss.

As always, know that you are doing such good and important work. I know there are always areas of growth, but I also know that what you’re doing is enough, and it’s making a strong impact in your client’s lives. Your willingness to show up with an open heart and warm presence make a significant difference. Thank you for doing what you do.