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Addressing Counselling Barriers for Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence in Rural British Columbia
No full textIn British Columbia (B.C.), Canada, rural survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) face significantly higher rates and severity of abuse than their urban counterparts, yet are much less likely to access counselling and other support services. Survivors of IPV in rural B.C. face many intersectional barriers which impact their access to counselling, including financial, geographical, systemic (related to criminal justice and social services), cultural (affecting marginalized populations), social (influenced by rural norms and values), and technological barriers. This capstone will explore the barriers and risk factors affecting access to counselling for rural B.C. survivors, culminating in a collaborative workshop grounded in decolonial feminist, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed counselling theory. The workshop aims to help B.C. counsellors and agencies gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by IPV survivors in rural B.C., and support them in developing strategies to address community- and region-specific barriers to counselling. Strategies and recommendations will focus on key themes including community-based resource collaboration; education and awareness-building at personal, professional, and community levels; centering survivors' expertise; providing safe and appropriate services for Indigenous and otherwise minoritized rural IPV survivors; and remaining flexible to the diverse needs of different rural B.C. communities. Ultimately, the goal of this capstone project is to support more IPV survivors in rural B.C. who want to access counselling to be able to do so, and to feel understood and supported when they do
The Impact of Integrating Harm Reduction Strategies for Individuals Who Have Experienced Substance-Related Harms
No full textThe intention in conducting this study was to understand the current relevance and pervasive nature of substance use and its related harms. Further it looked at support and treatment services which address these areas. Through a comprehensive review of current literature, guided by Harm Reduction Theory and Cognitive Behavioral Theory, this study explored the effect of harm reduction interventions on individuals who have experienced substance-related harm. Reviewed were 10 core articles, the findings of which indicated that implementing harm reduction can have an array of positive impacts for individuals who experience substance-related harm. These positive impacts include increased safety, reduced risk, destigmatization, improved service accessibility, and greater social support. Not only do individuals who use substances benefit from harm reduction interventions, individuals providing professional and/or peer support can also benefit. Additionally, the implications of applying the research findings within clinical practice are expansive and have the potential to influence therapeutic relationships and approaches. This study provides an integrated perspective on the impacts that implementing harm reduction can have on individuals experiencing substance-related harm which has been missing in previous research. Key recommendations include: utilizing alternative theories of addiction and substance use in clinical practice; and adapting and implementing harm reduction interventions for individuals experiencing different substance-related harms in clinical, counseling, and community settings. Implementing harm reduction more holistically may lead to destigmatization and a greater understanding of the intersectional experiences of those seeking support and treatment for substance-related harm
Examining Parent Dropout from Parent-Based Treatments for Elementary School-Aged Children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Get PDFThis research article is compiling and synthesizing the current research on reducing dropout from parent-based interventions for oppositional defiant disorder. Previous research has identified factors related to inducing dropout as well as explored potential actions for addressing dropout. Past research has lacked a unified theoretical framework to explain dropout and why interventions may be successful at reducing dropout in this population. The present study has conducted an analysis of the current literature and explored the potential for Deci and Ryan's self-determination theory as an appropriate framework for researchers and clinicians to use to understand dropout from parent-based treatments for oppositional defiant disorder
Factors Influencing Mental Health Professionals’ Ability to Provide Ethical and Unbiased Therapy for Sexually Deviant Clients
No full textSexually deviant clients seeking assistance from mental health professionals face significant challenges, including societal prejudices and professional conduct difficulties. This literature research examines the multifaceted factors influencing mental health professionals' capacity to provide impartial and ethically sound treatment to clients with sexual deviations. The central research question explores the viability of delivering ethical and unbiased treatment to sexually deviant clients and identifies the factors affecting therapeutic experiences. Utilizing Social Learning Theory, Cognitive-Behavioral Theory, and Critical Theory as frameworks, the study’s goal is to illuminate the primary elements affecting professionals' approaches. These frameworks are chosen to address the interaction of external pressures, cognitive biases, and systemic barriers in the treatment process, each offering unique insights into the complex dynamics at play. An in-depth examination of selected pivotal studies that were found to be sufficiently relevant and comprehensive for this analysis offers insights into the professional challenges encountered in treating sexually deviant clients, including the barriers to practicing effectively. Analysis reveals that stigma, insufficient foundational knowledge, limited practical experience, inadequate support systems, and gender dynamics significantly influence professionals' ability to offer unbiased and ethical care. The investigation highlights a significant scarcity of focused literature, indicating a pressing need for further studies to fill these knowledge gaps. By elucidating the complex dynamics involved in treating sexually deviant clients, this research contributes to a deeper understanding and calls for enhanced training and resources for mental health professionals, ensuring more effective and equitable care
Correlation Between Second Language Acquisition Knowledge and Asset/Deficit Perspective of Graduate-Level Professors Teaching International Non-Native English-Speaking Students
Get PDFThe desire of higher-ed leadership to internationalize programs to attract foreign students may not align with the perspectives of educators in the classroom. In the elementary and secondary school settings, a teacher's perspective can impact culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) student achievement. However, the current literature does not focus on the perspectives of graduate-level university professors as they instruct Non-Native English-speaking students from overseas. The purpose of this quantitative study is to measure university professors’ Second Language Acquisition (SLA) knowledge and measure where professors fall on a numerical spectrum between an asset and deficit perspective regarding non-native English-speaking (NNES) students from abroad and determine the correlation between the two factors. Using the purposive sampling method, participants were selected by reaching out to professors in the Seattle and Puget Sound areas who have experience in teaching NNES students. A Likert-type scale survey with two sections was administered, one section to learn the level of SLA knowledge and the second to learn where instructors fall on the spectrum between asset and deficit perspective. Several descriptive statistics were used to measure SLA knowledge and perspective such as the mean, Standard deviation, range, and skew. Once the sample of 77 instructors was surveyed, a statistically significant positive correlation was found between SLA knowledge and asset perspective. The SLA knowledge and Perspective study can highlight a way for institutions in higher education to improve the learning experiences of international students whose first language is not English. The SLA knowledge. and perspectives study is exploratory in nature and recommendations for future study can include the efficacy of SLA training programs for a professor
An Integrative Approach to Understanding Sexual Desire Discrepancies: Examining the Role of Emotionally Focused Therapy
Get PDFThis capstone reviews the current literature to investigate how the therapeutic approach of emotionally focused therapy can provide support for couples experiencing distress due to sexual desire discrepancy. Sexual desire discrepancy is a common relational concern that impacts the emotional and relational well-being of a couple. This capstone explores the interplay between the dynamics of SDD and the attachment-based framework of EFT. The comprehensive review of current literature highlights the principles of EFT in fostering emotional intimacy, addressing relational distress, and improving relationship satisfaction. Recommendations for future practice are provided to contribute to the fields of sex therapy and couple’s therapy
Expanding Our Understanding of Post-Migration Cultural Adjustment: Research-Informed Adaptation Strategies and Therapeutic Approaches
Get PDFThis research paper addresses the complexities of the cultural adaptation process for newcomers to Western countries through a critical examination of the three clusters of acculturation models. A review of the unidimensional assimilation model points to its increasing inadequacy in understanding the acculturation of newcomers from diverse backgrounds. John Berry's bidimensional acculturation model, particularly the integration strategy (or successful navigation of two cultures), has been shown to benefit individual well-being, psychological health, and cultural adaptation. However, criticism of Berry's model points to its failure to account for social, contextual, individual, and cultural variants that deeply affect integration. This leads to the theoretical inclusion of multidimensional perspectives that consider factors such as social reception context, discrimination, multicultural personality traits, goal setting and motivation, cultural distance, and the role of social networks. The paper also discusses variations of domain- specific integration, an approach that allows for newcomers to navigate across different spheres of life (public, social, personal) according to situational demands and personal benefits rather than acculturating strategies. Utilizing theoretical and empirical research, this paper offers a deeper understanding of the acculturation experience and provides practical guidelines and recommendations for culturally sensitive, multidimensional therapeutic approach. The significance of this research is underscored by future trends indicating an upward trajectory in global Western migration and immigration to Canada. Particularly as Canadian projections indicate that it aims to grow its population, stimulate economic growth, and fulfill humanitarian commitments with foreign migration, making the subject of acculturation increasingly relevant
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder Through a Psychological Lens
No full textThis capstone uses a comprehensive review of the literature to examine the psychological symptoms of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). The rationale for writing this capstone was to better identify how insights from the literature can contribute to the identification of PMDD symptoms in clients and the development of effective mental health support for those who suffer with the disorder. This research project’s methodology was a critical analysis of the current literature on PMDD. The capstone notes how women with PMDD suffer from a variety of psychological symptoms including anxiety and depression, anger, suicidality and othering of the self. Interventions which included stress reduction, skill development and acceptance were discussed as helpful commonalities appearing in the quantitative research. Additionally, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), modified to accommodate the menstrual cycle, was presented as a theoretical model for application in the clinical setting. The recommendations for
future research included interdisciplinary research which would address the biological, psychological and social nature of the disorder. Further research conducted within the Canadian context was recommended, with an emphasis on heterogenous samples, and finally, a recommendation was made for research to apply different theoretical models to determine their effectiveness in treating PMDD. This final recommendation was made emphasizing the need to adapt theoretical models to integrate menstrual cycle awareness in the design of future studies. The capstone concludes with a personal reflection highlighting areas of growth in both clinical and research perspectives and the impact on future professional practice
The Effects of Milestone Loss and Life Stressors on Adolescents and Young Adults After the COVID-19 Pandemic
No full textAdolescence and young adulthood express crucial identity development and the implementation of values to direct future planning. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic's onset in 2020 introduced global disruptions in work, school, social development, and other areas of normal functioning and living. Current research has focused on health and technology, mental health during the lockdowns and restrictions, and the short-term impacts of the pandemic. In 2023, Katy Schneider of The Cut wrote a blog post about a phenomenon regarded as the pandemic skip. That is, the feeling that sense of age is not aligned with personal perception and identity. Since then, personal experiences from adolescents and young adults have been reported feeling the same way. The researcher demonstrates that this concept of the pandemic skip has been an ongoing feeling from before the pandemic but has been exacerbated due to the global impacts of the pandemic. Information was gathered from current literature to explore this novel phenomenon and its impact on adolescents and young adults and their ability to plan for the future, achieve milestones, and set goals for meaning in life
The Efficacy of Mindfulness-based Interventions on Mental Health
No full textThis thesis examines the therapeutic benefits of mindfulness for individuals facing mental health challenges. It begins by exploring the concept of mindfulness, tracing its definition, origins, and historical evolution from Eastern philosophies to its integration into Western cultures. Followed by an exploration of the common therapeutic approaches that incorporate mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) including Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). The second section of this thesis focuses on the clinical application of MBIs, particularly their effectiveness in addressing anxiety and depression. While various therapeutic modalities incorporate elements of mindfulness, the focus of this thesis will be on evaluating the efficacy of MBSR and MBCT. Through an exploration of research findings and clinical applications, this thesis will highlight the impact of mindfulness on mental health and well-being