The use of symbol and metaphor in South Pacific counselling

Cabrini Makasiale

doi:10.9791/ajpanz.2000.03

Cabrini Makasiale

DOI: https://doi.org/10.9791/ajpanz.2000.03

Abstract

Western counselling theories and therapies have been the norm for viewing human nature. In the 1990s, there has been a movement to include the validity of cultural perspectives that are other than Western. There is also a challenge, I believe, to uphold both the Western and non-Western models of human development as of equal significance.

The intrapsychic organisations that influence how we process and experience the world are culture specific. There is an inner attitude and dynamic which I believe to be essential in any cross-cultural interaction. This is 'interpathy', (Augsburger: 1986). The use of symbol and metaphor in counselling Pacific Island clients is made effective by the context and attitude of interpathy that the therapist can maintain.

Author Biography

Cabrini Makasiale

As recorded in 2000.

Cabrini Makasiale DipPsychotherapy; DipTheology; CertCounselling; CertTeaching; MNZAC. Cabrini is Tongan born, was brought up in Fiji, and speaks Fijian and Tongan fluently. She works in South Auckland at Friendship House, practises psychotherapy, counselling and group facilitation cross-culturally with a significant focus on Pacific Island clients. Cabrini is a course tutor for parenting skills and stopping violence programmes for specific Government agencies.