A Narrative Inquiry into the Experiences of Two Non-Aboriginal Counsellors Working with Aboriginal People

Authors

  • Amanda Bowden University of Alberta
  • Vera Caine University of Alberta
  • Sophie Yohani University of Alberta

Keywords:

Aboriginal, Counselling Practice, Multicultural, Social Justice

Abstract

 

In this narrative inquiry we explored the experiences of two non-Aboriginal counsellors who worked with Aboriginal clients in Canada. Narrative inquiry is a relational methodology that allows researchers to attend to experience over time, place, and social contexts. With a call to develop a better understanding of the health issues facing Aboriginal peoples, counsellors need to have a strong understanding of the changing social conditions and focus beyond existing care paradigms. In order to provide culturally relevant care, non-Aboriginal counsellors need to engage in advocacy, outreach, community-based interventions, and consultations with indigenous practitioners. We highlight the need for both culture-informed and social justice perspectives to place counselling practice with Aboriginal peoples in the context of culture, history, and sociopolitical realities.

 

Author Biographies

Amanda Bowden, University of Alberta

Amanda Bowden is a master of education student at the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Vera Caine, University of Alberta

Vera Caine is an associate professor and CIHR New Investigator in the Faculty of Nursing at the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Sophie Yohani, University of Alberta

Sophie Yohani is an associate professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. She is also a Registered Psychologist.

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Published

2017-02-03

How to Cite

Bowden, A., Caine, V., & Yohani, S. (2017). A Narrative Inquiry into the Experiences of Two Non-Aboriginal Counsellors Working with Aboriginal People. Canadian Journal of Counselling and Psychotherapy, 51(1). Retrieved from https://cjc-rcc.ucalgary.ca/article/view/61126

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Articles/ Articles