Author: staff

iamc is empowerment

Iamc
OFFICERS
Annette Lonie President love3377@sbcglobal.net
Cherie Barnes, Past-President cheriebarnes01@yahoo.com
Pat Meriweather, Treasurer pmerri1053@aol.com
Cherie Barnes, Secretary & Webmistress cheriebarnes01@yahoo.com

Inside this issue:

President Greeting	1
Religion	1-2
Psychotropic Meds	3
Were on the web!	3
Guns in the office	4-5
Counselors heal thyself	5
What IAMC is?	6

IAMC-A division of ICA
S H A D E S

President’s Greeting

Spring/summer 2013

Greetings,
It has been a pleasure serving as the IAMC President this last year. Multiculturalism is a very interesting and exciting area. It is an area that continues to evolve. IAMC continues to evolve around current issues.
I am hoping everyone has thawed out from the cold winter months. Just look around and you are able to see the flowers and tress blooming and smelling with fragrance. IAMC is also blooming with excitement and looking forward to a year full of bright and exciting events. Starting with spring workshops at Joliet Jr. And Adler University. We also are planning our end of Summer Conference. We are planning a day filled with many exciting presenters including our special planned Keynote speaker. We, also, have other events scheduled for the coming year in order to continue to provide multicultural counseling interests that are geared not just for graduate students, but for all mental health professionals as well. Hope you enjoy what IAMC has planned,
Blessings,
Annette Lonie, MA
IAMC President ,
2012-13

RELIGION AND THE METAPHOR OF MULTICULTURALISM
By Marvin D. Evans, MS, MBA, LCPC

Though the above scripture specifically references the repopulation of earth after the Great Flood, we can see that God clearly had an appreciation for diversity. The scripture serves as a metaphor of the need for inclusiveness and replenishment. As American society in particular and the world in general continues its forward progression, the need to embrace and harvest the resources of its various ethnicities and cultures becomes more or less a categorical imperative, the origin of which
(continued of pg. 2)

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Religion..continued from page 1

Our future coming together.

has its essence and foundation in one of the most basic constructs of any society-religion; the implications of which serve to impact the viability of the community and the world in the micro and macro sense, respectively. Without a doubt, multiculturalism is the global fashion of the day. The very mention of it or any other form of plurality brings into discussion and debate many of society’s underlying prejudices and hostilities. The notion of a “shared” perspective at a cost to privilege and power is not something that will be indulged without a fight. “Providence has been pleased to give this one connected country to one united people—a people descended from the same ancestors, speaking the same language, professing the same religion, attached to the same principles of government, very similar in their manners and customs… This country and this people seem to have been made for each other, and it appears as if it was the design of Providence, that an inheritance so proper and convenient for a band of brethren, united to each other by the strongest ties, should never be split into a number of unsocial, jealous, and alien sovereignties.” The above quote is attributed to John Fay, the first Supreme Court Judge of the United States, in the second of the Federalist Papers. October 31, 1787. That passage has been the dogma and garment of nationalism in the U.S. for the past two hundred plus years. The passage makes it clear the concept of multiculturalism as a national ethic was nowhere to be found on the nation’s horizon or trajectory. The founding fathers were clear and unapologetic: America was of, for, and by, those of White, Anglo-Saxon, Protestest, male heritage. One could argue in defense of the founding fathers that aside from the Indians and Slaves, no one else inhabited America during that time and consequently, the myopia of government was simply a reflection of the times. One could excuse such arrogance were it not for presumption that God or Providence was an alliance to this. It is one thing to lack foresight; but quite another to invoke divine assumption. Furthermore, to weave this inflexible credo into the politics and undergirding of a country every changing its demographic was nothing short of perversion. It is this grand assumption which crippled the efforts of civil rights and multiculturalism efforts from inception. The distortion of privilege or favor is a vested robe of intolerance which resists shedding, and which has plagued American governance for much of its history. However, unlike fashion which spins and weaves with the trends of the day. Multiculturalism in 2013 will not give way to obsolescence or to the tyranny of “old skool” privilege. The world continues to change its face; its constitution demands such. And to address the changing complexions of life, multiculturalism will continue to assert itself as the apparel of the day. As advocates for multiculturalism, counselors are in a unique position to begin the process and conversation of this dynamic with a full awareness of what’s at stake.
Counselors have an enviable skill set at their disposal to help facilitate this paradigm shift. Because of the counselor’s specialized ability to interpret, empathize, inform, and intervene, we are the requisite agents of social change. We impact the lives of individuals at the core of their being —self. A healthy appreciation of “otherness” can only be accomplished through a healthy acceptance of self. Counselors can frame the experience for the individual and the community. Counselors have the responsibility for and the privilege to herald change; to introduce and reintroduce communities to its ever evolving tapestry of experience. And just as Noah was chosen to carry out a charge greater than his vision, such is the role of today’s counselor in shaping the post-diluvial world of multiculturalism.
Reference:
Holy Bible, King James Version. John Jay, First American Supreme Court Chief Justice, Federalist Paper No.2

IAMC-A division of ICA
S H A D E S

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Monitoring the Client on Psychotropic Meds
When an individual who requires psychotropic medications comes to you for counseling, you're likely to see the client more often and more regularly than the prescriber. Because of this frequent contact, you are in an ideal position to help ensure that the treatment—a combination of medication and counseling—is successful.
During your initial assessment, determine what medications your client is taking. If an antidepressant has been prescribed, you need to be aware of the indications for the drug, as well as any side effects and complications. This is particularly important if the client is an adolescent because some psychotropic drugs have been linked with increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in this age group.
If possible, establish a relationship with the prescribing practitioner— typically, a psychiatrist—to ensure that you can spot signs that a drug is not working or is having a detrimental effect. Also, make sure you can distinguish between the symptoms of the client's disorder and the effects of the drug.
It's important, too, to include observations of the client's behavior or demeanor in your documentation. If you notice that a client has developed a facial tic, for example—a potential side effect of many antipsychotics—document it in the client's record. Ask the client to notify the psychiatrist and explain that you will do so as well. Document these actions, as well as every conversation you have with the psychiatrist, in the client's chart, including the time, date and details of both sides of the discussion.
Always keep a complete record of all written communications with the psychiatrist or other provider, whether by e-mail, letter or fax. Though it is primarily the responsibility of the prescriber to determine which medication is needed for the client and to monitor its effectiveness, you can be a helpful resource. Looking out for potential problems with your client's medication, as well as documenting and immediately reporting difficulties to the prescriber, is the best way to reduce your risk of liability and protect your client's wellbeing.

Reprinted with permission from Healthcare Providers Service Organization (HPSO); 159 E. County Line Road, Hatboro, PA 19040, 1- 800-982-9491. [Monitoring the Client on Psychotropic Meds] Website

“..Noah was chosen to carry out a charge greater than his vision, such is the role of today’s counselor in shaping the post-diluvial world of Multiculturalism.

IAMC upcoming events

Continue to check out our website for further activities and details that IAMC plan to bring the membership.
WWW.ILLINOISMULTICULTURALCOUNSELING.WEEBLY.COM

“Getting America Healthy, one person at a time”……..Annette Lonie

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Guns In The Counselor’s Office?
By Catherine Wells

QUESTION: Will you allow clients to carry concealed guns into your mental health office or waiting room?
On June 8, 2013 of this year (2013), Illinois will become a “concealed carry” state. This means that civilians (as opposed to police officers, for example) will be able to legally carry a concealed firearm on their person in public. The exact details, such as licensure to carry and any (or no) associated requirements, where firearms may legally be carried, and many other issues, are still being hammered out in the legislature. We mental health professionals should be thinking about how the upcoming concealed carry public environment will play out in our institutions, agencies or private practices. Here’s why:
Under current Illinois law civilians are not (generally) allowed to carry a fireman In public. Those who do are doing so illegally. While it has always been true that a patient or client could conceivably bring a concealed weapon into a mental health office, this chance has usually been limited to the subset of mental health clients with a history of criminal, delinquent or violent behavior. We have known more or less what to “ watch out for” with the various populations we work with. Under concealed carry this distinction for who we can expect to be “packing heat” will no longer exist. We may now expect another subset of mental health clients to potentially castry a concealed firearm—law-abiding citizens.
While a law-abiding citizens person with a gun is arguably less likely to pose a danger to others than one with a history
of violent or criminal behavior, I would offer that we mental health professionals, can serve our vlients best if we have thought out, in advance, what policy we want to make regarding whether to allow firearms on the premises of our practices or agencies. Here are a few questions to help you ponder your policy: (1) What is your own view of gun ownership and use, especially regarding concealed carry? Be mindful of your own sensibilities on this issue—your views are an honest and valid starting point for any policy your choose.
(2) What population do you serve? (3) If you share a building with others counselors, what populations do they seve, and with what safety concerns? Are all of your building/office partners of the same on premises? (4) If your office or agency
mind as you regarding guns

Caption describing picture or graphic.

For more information of Multicultural Competencies, please see http://www.counseling.org/docs/competencies/multcultural_competencies.pdf?sfvrsn=3

What is MCT and how do we make it better?

IAMC-A division of ICA
S H A D E S

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Guns In The Counselor’s Office? (continued)

is in a suite of rooms in a public building, what will the policy of the building owner by regarding guns on the premises as a while? What if their policy differs from your thinking on this matter? (5) Does your liability insurance provider have any input here?
One last thing! One of the bills in the words at this time is HB0997 (Rep. Brandon Phelps). In its most recent form as of early March there was a clause that provided for concealed firearms being banned from inpatient mental health centers.
That much is clear. If this bill eventually becomes law, what is unclear is what our rights will be to ban firearms if we have offices or suites in public buildings. Go to www.ilga.gov to look up this and related concealed carry House or Senate bills. Wade in and read, and if you don’t understand, please call your legislator and ask what it means (the same website has contact information). Remember that these people work for you. To contact me, you can find me at: cwellslcpc@gmail.com

Continuing Ed is one way to Reduce Risk
New treatments are continually being developed and laws affecting healthcare providers are frequently enacted or revised, making it imperative that practitioners keep abreast of the latest developments. You may live in a state in which continuing education credits are required for re-licensure or need to keep earning CE credits in order to stay certified.
Continued learning is necessary to keep you up-to-date both clinically and legally. There are many options available to help you stay current. Take advantage of in-service programs at your facility, which often provide CE credit.
Look for continuing education that’s offered by professional organizations, clinical journals and professional conferences and websites. In addition to boosting your knowledge level, clinical skills and confidence, continuing to learn and earn credits could make it harder for a plaintiff’s attorney to discredit you in the event of a negligence claim.
Seeking CE credits by reading about or taking courses on familiar diseases or topics will help you stay abreast of the latest therapies and developments. You can also benefit from updates on research studies, clinical techniques and laws and regulations affecting your specialty.
Reprinted with permission from Healthcare Providers Service Organization (HPSO); 159 E. County Line Road, Hatboro, PA 19040, 1- 800-982-9491. [Continuing Ed is one way to reduce risk] Website

Counselors Heal Thy Self

We need to learn to take the time to relax. Here are some things that might work is consistent.
Daily mental and physical relaxation by taking some quiet time, s20 mins., is all it takes. Close your eyes, listen to tighten up and then completely release all of the muscles in your body, starting from your head to your toes, one at a time.
Listen to some soft jazz or inspirational music while taking a warm lavender bath.
Enjoy a full body massage or mani/pedi.
Drink some herbal tea and sit and entire a good book.
Drink plenty of water.
Start the day with positive thoughts.
Daily vitamins and herbs.

Spring/Summer Book Suggestions
( for counselors & clients)
Learning to Breath by
Progressive Relaxation and Breathing by Matthew McKay, Ph.d. & Patrick Fanning
Get Out of Your Mind & Into Your Life By S. C. Hayes, with Spencer Smith
The Daily Relaxer CD by Matthew McKay, Ph.d. & Patrick Fanning
(For Therapy w/ Clients)
Clinical Issues with Interracial Couples by V. Thomas and T. Wetcher
(This books reaches our to counselors working with bi racial concerns and issues, giving interesting and current solutions.)

ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION FOR MULTICULTURAL COUNSELING
(A division of the Illinois Counseling Association)

Mission: IAMC celebrates the similarities and differences across cultural groups and world views, including the intersections of gender, social class, race, ethnicity, language, age, sexual orientation, spirituality, religion, disability, family type and other cultural variables.
We

What IAMC is all about

Membership in the Illinois Counseling Association is a requirement for any of its divisions including Illinois Association for Multicultural Counseling IAMC is a branch of Association for Multicultural Counseling (AAMC) Membership in IAMC is one of four categories: Professional, Retired, Student or Library member. Please see any member for current dues information. IAMC emphasis support and resources including, A multicultural conference A newsletter Multicultural training