Tumeke Bro'?

Abstract

This article was born out of reflecting on my relationships formed with Māori male tamariki as a White male counsellor. How possible is it for a Pākehā to be an effective counsellor with Māori tamariki? Or is the space between us too big to bridge? In addressing this question I explore and reflect on the implications of White privilege, and its effects on the space in which I meet with tamariki. Personal insights from reflecting on Māori concepts, the Treaty of Waitangi and my own culture and past confirm that yes, Pākehā can counsel Māori tamariki if they acknowledge the influence of White privilege in society, including in the counselling room; reflect on their own culture and past; are genuinely open, curious about and respectful toward Māori culture and language; and engage with the principles of the pōwhiri process in navigating their way through the space that invites both into respectful and safe relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] Copyright of New Zealand Journal of Counselling is the property of New Zealand Association of Counsellors and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)