Cultural Diversity Interview Paper

Cultural Diversity Interview
I conducted an interview with Barbara Schauland, MS, Rehabilitation Counselor, Branch Office Manager, regarding her experiences working with culturally diverse clients in the field of vocational rehabilitation. Ms. Schauland has been employed with the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services for five and a half years. During her time with the agency she has worked as a general field counselor serving adult population, as a specialized counselor working with the deaf and hard of hearing, and now is a branch office manager. Ms. Schauland supervises ten Rehabilitation Counselors, three Rehabilitation Service Associates (para-professionals) and one Office Assistant. During the interview Ms. Schauland was

1) Respect “I believe letting the client know that even if you don’t have the particular difference of race, physical, or mental health issues that as a counselor you are willing to work with them for the best possible outcome.” (B. Schauland, personal communication, November 11, 2015)
2) Inclusive Environment “Letting the client know what is expected of them and letting them know that as a counselor you expect this from all people no matter what or how they define themselves, letting them know as a professional you will work with them towards their goal.” (B. Schauland, personal communication, November 11, 2015)
3) Monitor effectiveness “As a counselor taking reasonable steps to seek supervision and improve when necessary.” (B. Schauland, personal communication, November 11,

“Seek out training in diversity, read literature and self-reflection.” (B. Schauland, personal communication, November 11, 2015) In our course on cultural diversity it has been discussed that individuals from different cultural backgrounds then the counselor may feel that the counselor does not understand their needs, can you reflect on this? This is true. I have had deaf clients say to me when they first meet me “Oh you aren’t deaf” and then make a face. You can’t take it personal. As the work with me and see how I am willing to advocate for them and to assist them in what they need they no longer bring up the fact that I am not deaf. It becomes a mutual appreciation of the other. I will tell them, “I will treat you no different you must be responsible to do your part deaf or hearing.” (B. Schauland, personal communication, November 11, 2015) Ms. Schauland explained to me that many times the interpreters working with her clients have told her that clients like working with her because when she tells them she is going to do something it is