Noon-2 p.m.

Details and register: http://ssw.unc.edu/programs/clinical_lecture_series

Cultural trauma: Developing an ear for the unspoken in the room
Michelle Johnson, MSW, LCSW
   
What does it mean for a therapist to be aware of the history of the person in the room - particularly when the individual is a member of a cultural group that has endured oppression, subjugation, and violence? This workshop presents the concept of “cultural trauma” to enhance therapeutic work with clients who may enter treatment with stories of intergenerational trauma that remain unspoken yet significantly impact their identity, experience, and presenting problem. Using case examples, Michelle Johnson will describe manifestations of cultural trauma and provide tools for therapists to consider their clients’ cultural legacies. This workshop will focus on how to broach the unspoken, collaborate with clients on the telling of their stories, assess for the relevance of cultural trauma, and adjust treatment accordingly. The presentation will also touch briefly on the impact of the cultural heritage of the therapist in this process.