Season 6, Episode #55 – Culturally Supportive
Guest Hosts: Adrianna Ortega, BA, BS, CCLS and Francine Gamez, MS, CCLS, LPC-Associate, NCC
Summary:
In this conversation, child life specialists Adrianna Ortega and Francine Gamez discuss the unique challenges and cultural considerations when providing support to Latin families facing illness. They emphasize the importance of family dynamics, cultural representation, and the need for culturally sensitive practices in child life services. The discussion also highlights the significance of community events like Dia de los Muertos in fostering connections and healing. Both specialists share insights on overcoming barriers to accessing support and the role of leadership in promoting cultural humility within their organization.
Keywords:
Child Life Specialists, Latin Culture, Family Dynamics, Mental Health, Dia de los Muertos, Cultural Representation, Support Services, Community Health, Cultural Humility, Family Support
Initiatives Featured in this episode:
Cultural Awareness, Parental Support, Expressive Activities
Takeaways:
- Family is central to the Latino culture, often involving multi-generational households.
- Mental health discussions can be taboo in many cultures, including Latino communities.
- Child life specialists must explain their role to families unfamiliar with mental health services.
- Cultural representation in support spaces helps families feel seen and valued.
- Dia de los Muertos can be a powerful tool for healing and remembrance.
- Older siblings often bear significant emotional and practical responsibilities during family illness.
- Access to technology can be a barrier for families seeking virtual support.
- Cultural humility is essential for effective communication and support in diverse communities.
- Leadership support is crucial for addressing the unique needs of clinicians serving marginalized populations.
- Families should feel empowered to maintain their cultural traditions while seeking support.