A Jig in Three Parts: Identity, Power and Agency in the Therapeutic Relationship between Mental-Health Counsellors and Métis Clients in British Columbia

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

Author dc:creator

• Valin, Délani

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Takach, Geo

• School of communication and culture

Language dc:language.iso

en_US

Identifier URI

https://doi.org/10.25316/IR-19682

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:null:10613/28050