Representation Matters

This phrase gets used frequently, but what does it truly mean, and how does it manifest in the counselling room?

Growing up as the child of immigrants from Hong Kong in Vancouver significantly shaped my understanding of societal expectations. As a child, I rarely saw Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) individuals represented in media, toys, games, or even among the professionals in my community. Whenever I did encounter any form of representation, I clung to it dearly, unaware that it was a small glimpse of diversity in the predominantly Eurocentric world around me.

Navigating the cultural norms of both Chinese and Western societies felt like a delicate balancing act, and it often seemed impossible to satisfy either side. I constantly felt "not Asian enough" while also being considered "too white-washed." I never saw anyone like me—someone who embodied a blend of both cultures and embraced their identity with pride.

In my family, mental health was never openly discussed due to the shame-based ideologies prevalent in East Asian culture and the associated stigma. This culture of silence and shame often functions as a barrier, preventing individuals from seeking mental health support. Stigmas around mental health affect many people from varied backgrounds and intersections.

Why Is Representation Important in Counselling?

Since I began my journey in counselling, I have become acutely aware of the low representation of BIPOC individuals in the field. This gap became particularly evident during my master's program, with a lack of diversity among my professors and I found out that less than a quarter of registered counsellors with my licensing body were BIPOC. There are many reasons for this underrepresentation, including systemic barriers.

Reaching out to a counsellor for the first time can feel intimidating and is a significant step. This step can be even more daunting for BIPOC individuals or those who identify as 2SLGBTIA+ and have other intersecting identities. They may feel apprehensive about entering a counselling space that is predominantly White, heteronormative, and able-bodied, where many counsellors have been trained in Eurocentric theories and ideologies.

Representation within the counselling field can significantly enhance clients’ comfort levels, fostering a more inviting and supportive environment.

• Unspoken cultural rules can be understood without placing the burden on the client to explain them to the counsellor when they share a similar background. This shared experience fosters a natural and unspoken trust, and it creates a sense of cultural safety when a counsellor understands the deep pain of microaggressions and nuanced cultural norms.

• Many clients hesitate and worry about seeking counselling, so having a counsellor who shares their cultural background or primary identities can provide a more comfortable experience. People are more likely to reach out to a therapist who looks like them or who better understands their community. Representation can significantly reduce the barriers that prevent many BIPOC individuals from starting counselling.

• Representation offers a rich perspective in counselling by drawing on diverse lived experiences, rather than relying solely on Eurocentric norms that dominate the mental health field. Everyone benefits from the incorporation of voices from communities that are usually underrepresented.

• Representation is crucial in the counselling room because it enables the systemic changes we the underrepresented wish to see in the world. By reclaiming spaces that were not designed for our success, we can demonstrate allyship and impact change.

• Having more BIPOC individuals in the community fosters a supportive environment and shows future generations that they have the power to make a difference.

I genuinely cherish the incredible opportunity to be part of the mental health community as a woman of colour! It’s inspiring to see how this privilege has shaped my journey. For instance, many clients connect with me because we share similar backgrounds as children of Hong Kong immigrants. Additionally, I’m excited to build a supportive network with emerging counsellors seeking BIPOC mentorship. Together, we’re making a positive impact and fostering a sense of belonging!

If you're interested in connecting, schedule a free 20 minute virtual consultation with me here! I'm looking forward to connecting with you!