Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Practice Examination

When did discussions about cultural competency in counseling begin to gain traction?

1. 1950s

2. 1960s

3. 1970s

4. 1980s

The correct answer is: 1960s

Discussions about cultural competency in counseling began to gain traction in the 1960s, largely influenced by the civil rights movement and the growing recognition of the importance of understanding diverse cultural backgrounds. This decade marked a significant shift in social values, emphasizing the need for mental health professionals to be aware of and sensitive to the cultural factors that influence clients' experiences and identities. As a result, the 1960s saw the emergence of important models and frameworks aimed at improving the effectiveness of counseling with clients from diverse backgrounds. This included critical examination of the dominant cultural narratives in mental health and the beginning of efforts to integrate cultural considerations into therapeutic practices. The increased focus on multiculturalism during this time laid the groundwork for formalizing cultural competency as an essential component of counselor education and practice in subsequent decades.