Arrendondo et al. defined three general characteristics of culturally skilled counselors. Which is NOT one of them?

• A. awareness of his or her own assumptions, values, and biases
• B. understanding of the worldview of the culturally diverse client
• C. consciousness developed from educational diversity training
• D. mindfulness of the appropriate intervention strategies and techniques

Answer: (C)

The main idea tested is what Arrendondo and colleagues identify as the characteristics that make a counselor culturally skilled. They emphasize three ongoing dimensions: first, being aware of one’s own assumptions, values, and biases; second, understanding the worldview of culturally diverse clients; and third, applying counseling strategies and techniques in ways that are culturally appropriate. The option describing consciousness developed from educational diversity training doesn’t fit as one of these defining traits. Training can foster awareness and knowledge, but the three core characteristics are about your own reflective stance, your grasp of the client’s cultural perspective, and your ability to adapt interventions accordingly. The other options align with those elements because they capture self-awareness, understanding the client’s world, and using culturally suitable methods.