Self-awareness has been described as an important part of one’s therapeutic identity and key aspects of sound clinical practice, in general (Aponte& Kissil, 2018), and as it pertains to gaining cultural competence (Laszloffy & Habekost, 2010). Laszloffy & Habekost (2010) aptly state more specifically that in order for MFTs-in-training to be culturally competent “…the capacity to learn about others is rooted in how much individuals are able to understand about, and struggle with, themselves (p. 336). An integral part of this process, then, is an invitation for an inward examination of how contextual variables, like race, gender, and sexual orientation, for example, inform our personal belief systems and relationships.
Consider your own biopsychosocial characteristics and how more visible or salient aspects of your identity have resulted in experiences of affirmation or marginalization.
Reflect on your reaction to exploring the impact of your biopsychosocial characteristics on your own and your family’s experience.
Describe what thoughts and feelings come up as you consider the ways in which you have been privileged and/or marginalized.
Part 2: MAKSS Reflection
Discuss your MAKSS results and include your thoughts and reactions.
How do the results make sense, based on your lived experiences as described in the first part of the discussion?
What surprised you (or didn’t surprise you) about your results and why?
