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Feb 20, 2024

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3.1: Focus on “Biological” – Practice with the Case of John In John's case, a biological approach to counselling and psychotherapy may involve exploring the potential role of genetics, brain chemistry, and other biological factors in his emotional and relationship struggles. As discussed in Pinel & Barnes (2021) Chapter 2, genes and the environment interact to shape behaviour. It may be helpful to explore John's family history of mental health issues and any potential genetic predispositions that may be contributing to his symptoms. In addition, as discussed in Chapter 3 of Pinel & Barnes (2021), neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine play a key role in regulating mood and emotion. An assessment of John's neurotransmitter levels may be helpful in understanding the biological factors contributing to his feelings of sadness and fatigue. A biological approach may also involve exploring the potential role of hormones in John's emotional and relationship struggles. For example, as discussed in Shebib (2020) Chapter 10, hormones such as testosterone and estrogen can impact sexual orientation and gender identity. It may be helpful to explore how John's sexual orientation and experiences as a gay male may be related to hormonal factors. In terms of treatment, a biological approach may involve the use of medication to regulate neurotransmitter levels or hormonal imbalances. For example, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used to treat depression and anxiety by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Overall, a biological approach to counselling and psychotherapy can help to identify and address potential biological factors contributing to John's emotional and relationship struggles. By understanding the interplay of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors, counsellors can develop effective treatment plans that address the root causes of clients' symptoms and promote positive outcomes. Shebib's (2020) chapter 10 on "Counselling and Psychotherapy with LGBTQ+ Clients" is relevant to John's case as he identifies as a gay male. This chapter highlights the unique experiences and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in society, including discrimination,

prejudice, and social stigma. These experiences can contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. In John's case, his reported feelings of sadness and fatigue may be related to the stress and pressure he feels from his family's disapproval of his relationship with his partner. This disapproval may also be contributing to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. It would be important to explore these issues with John in a safe and supportive environment, and to validate his experiences as a gay male in a society that may not fully accept him. Shebib (2020) also emphasizes the importance of using inclusive language and creating a safe and affirming space for LGBTQ+ clients. This may involve being aware of one's own biases and assumptions, as well as actively listening to and understanding the client's unique perspective and experiences. As a counsellor, it is important to approach John's case with cultural humility and a willingness to learn and grow in one's understanding of LGBTQ+ issues and experiences. In addition, Shebib (2020) recommends using an intersectional approach when working with LGBTQ+ clients, recognizing that individuals may experience multiple forms of oppression and marginalization based on factors such as race, ethnicity, gender identity, and socio-economic status. In John's case, exploring the intersection of his sexual orientation, ethnicity, and family dynamics may be helpful in understanding his experiences and developing an effective treatment plan. Overall, Shebib's (2020) chapter on counselling and psychotherapy with LGBTQ+ clients highlights the importance of creating a safe and affirming space for clients like John, and of understanding the unique challenges and experiences faced by individuals who identify as LGBTQ+. By using an intersectional and culturally humble approach, counsellors can help to promote positive outcomes and support clients in achieving their goals. Pinel & Barnes (2021) Chapter 2 discusses the biological and evolutionary foundations of behaviour. One key concept in this chapter is the idea that genes and the environment interact to shape behaviour. In John's case, his upbringing and experiences with his family and partner may be contributing to his current emotional state and relationship struggles. It is important to explore these

environmental factors and how they may be impacting his behaviour and mental health. Chapter 3 of Pinel & Barnes (2021) discusses the nervous system and how it relates to behaviour. This chapter highlights the importance of neurotransmitters in regulating mood and emotion. John's reported feelings of sadness and fatigue may be related to imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. It would be important to assess for any underlying mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety that may be contributing to his symptoms. Chapter 4 of Pinel & Barnes (2021) focuses on the brain and its role in behaviour. This chapter explains the functions of different brain regions and how they are involved in regulating behaviour. Understanding the neural basis of emotions and behaviour can help to inform treatment approaches for individuals like John who are struggling with relationship issues and emotional distress. Slay-Westbrook's (2017) book, "Counselling and Psychotherapy Theories in Context and Practice", discusses various theoretical approaches to counselling and psychotherapy. One relevant approach for John's case may be cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to emotional distress. This approach may be helpful in addressing John's feelings of inadequacy and dissatisfaction with his relationship. Shebib's (2020) article, "Cultural Humility: A Framework for Practice with Indigenous Clients", emphasizes the importance of approaching counselling from a culturally humble perspective and understanding the unique experiences and perspectives of clients from diverse backgrounds. In John's case, it may be important to explore how his cultural background as a Canadian male and his partner's cultural background as a Chinese male may be impacting their relationship dynamics and interactions with their families. Overall, John's case highlights the importance of considering biological, environmental, and cultural factors when working with clients in counselling and psychotherapy. A holistic approach that takes into account the interplay of these factors can help to inform effective treatment approaches and promote positive outcomes for clients.

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