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The Three-Dimensional Model and 8 Roles

The Three-Dimensional Model

• Atkinson, Thompson and Grant's (1993)'s model helps counselors to determine the role that they should assume when counseling racial/ethnic minorities
• 8 alternative roles, depending on the 3 dimensions
  • Client's acculturation level (High or Low)
  • Goals of Counseling (Prevention or Remediation)
  • Etiology of problems (External or Internal)

For more information you can read: Atkinson, D. R., Thompson, C. E., Grant, S. K. (1993).
A Three-Dimensional Model for Counseling Racial/Ethnic Minorities. Counseling Psychologist, 21(2), 257.3

Examples

Advisor:

Providing advice to new immigrants

Advocate:

School counselors ensuring that immigrant students do not experience harassment and intergroup conflict

Facilitator of indigenous Support System:

Counseling viewed as a social support system; counselors encouraging the client to use their support systems

Facilitator of indigenous healing:

Respecting cultural specific means to deal with and solve problems

Consultant:

Developing outreach programs

Change Agent:

Changing the social environment that oppresses racial/ethnic minorities (e.g., formation of political groups, coordinating activities and resources)

Counselor:

Helping the client make decisions.