Counselling in a multicultural context

This unit prepares you to be culturally competent counsellors in Malaysia and beyond. It examines selected issues connecting counselling and psychology to broader social, political and cultural issues. It locates existing psychological and counselling knowledge in a contemporary social context, exploring emerging trends of mental health needs in different contexts and reviewing existing mental health practices across cultures.

Specific topics on social-political determinants (such as power structure, systemic racism, social injustice, healthcare inequalities, indigenous practices and wisdom) will be discussed in-depth in the counselling context. You will learn about cultural formulation and analysis of mental health issues and clients in the clinical settings. You are encouraged to be highly critical and reflexive in the integration of both professional and personal cultural identity development.

Active learning - You will be provided with the opportunity to engage with relevant literature and resources. Further, you will be encouraged to deepen your understanding of topic areas through collegial discussion and debate, and by participating in activities designed to extend your understanding.

Minimum total expected workload equals 144 hours per semester comprising:

(a.) Contact hours for on-campus students:

• 36 hours of engagement in online, face-to-face or blended platforms over the semester

(b.) Additional requirements (all students):

• independent study to make up the required minimum hours during the semester.

For the unit teaching schedule, please visit the timetable.