Reconstructing "Otherness" — Counselling that Cultivates Belonging
Reconstructing "Otherness" — Counselling that Cultivates Belonging
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Issue Date
2023-03-06
Authors
Saba, Daniel
Journal Title
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Volume Title
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Abstract
This capstone project explores how counsellors can support individuals who feel a lack of belonging in their lives based on parts of their identity that are less obvious or perceptible. The research question investigated was: how can the frameworks of social constructionism and queer theory help counsellors nurture feelings of belonging and affirmation in clients who feel they experience 'otherness'? The methodological framework used to guide the literature review was an integrative review. Findings from this research include ways that narrative therapy can be used and improved to uplift clients. Recommendations in a counselling session include: directly initiating conversations about a client's experience of otherness, ongoing counsellor humility and self-reflection, and present moment awareness of relational dynamics. Reviewing this project can provide a new lens to improve counsellor awareness for supporting individuals who experience otherness. This understanding can provide recommendations to foster belonging in those who have historically felt out of place.
Description
Keywords
belonging , otherness , social constructionism , queer theory , narrative therapy
License
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States , openAccess