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APA Psychotherapy Training Videos are intended solely for educational purposes for mental health professionals. Viewers are expected to treat confidential material found herein according to strict professional guidelines. Unauthorized viewing is prohibited.
Dr. Parham's African-centered approach takes into account the influence of race in psychotherapy, especially in the creation of the therapy framework. Because the American version of psychotherapy was first developed by people of European descent, a Eurocentric lens may not give an accurate view of African American clients—in fact, this lens may diagnose pathology where none exist.
The approach illustrated in this video takes into consideration five dimensions of the African personality, which are anchored in the ancient Kemetic system of Ma'at:
- Divinity: connecting with the creative force of the universe.
- Teachability: the capacity to learn and show knowledge.
- Perfectibility: being in the moment, yet always striving toward something better.
- Free will: making conscious choices to respond to reality.
- Moral and social Responsibility: All relationships should be guided by moral and social responsibility.
This approach honors spirituality, interconnectedness, the precedence of the collective over the individual, self-knowledge, and the self healing power that he believes is within each of us. The phases of therapy are
- connecting with the client,
- assessment,
- facilitating awareness,
- setting goals,
- taking action and instigating change, and
- getting feedback and monitoring accountability.
Return to Working With African American Clients
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