What’s ‘wrong’ with my names?

An exploration of Eurocentrism, microaggression, and social justice actions in counselling and psychotherapy

Abstract

Using the story and experiences of microaggression relating to the names of a trainee counselling psychologist from a racially minoritised background, this article attempts to illustrate how easy it can be for therapists to practice in ways that produce additional and intense distress in the form of microaggressions enacted by therapists unconsciously. To understand this, the author reflects upon and challenges three assumptions commonly held by counselling and psychotherapy professionals, namely, that: (1) therapists are aware of the impact of Eurocentrism; (2) therapists behave and work in a non-discriminatory manner; and (3) therapists embrace the values of social justice. The article ends with some proposals for how to incorporate simple social justice and anti-oppressive actions into practice, and a reminder to always examine and acknowledge one’s privilege, power, and limitations inside and outside the therapy room.