ABSTRACT
While culture is a collective phenomenon associated with groups of people, great variety exists among the individuals of the group. Culture reflects every aspect of one’s life; thus, education, politics, economics, historical factors, family relationships, time, communication, and human biological variations influence culture. Becoming culturally aware is the first step in providing culturally appropriate care for all people. This chapter will discuss the Culture Care Theory, the Process of Cultural Competence, cultural assessment models, and multicultural counselling. A comparative analysis of individualism and collectivism provides the context to begin understanding the resulting influences on counselling and group therapy. Finally, a discussion of the stigma of mental ill-health, the diverse cultural beliefs associated with death, dying, and end-of-life care ensues. The intent of this chapter is to initiate the process of cultural awareness related to the provision of palliative care with mental health services. Self-assessment, reflective practice exercises, key points, and references to learn more how to facilitate the movement along the continuum toward being more culturally competent.
