In this article, the authors present two hypothetical cases, one of a Mexican American female college student and one of a Mexican immigrant adult male, and apply a culturally sensitive approach to career assessment and career counseling with each of these clients. Drawing from Leong, Hardin, and Gupta’s cultural formulation approach (CFA) to career counseling, the authors conceptualize the cases and provide a plan for working with these clients that takes into account the individual’s career development and identity formation within the context of the Latina/o culture. Cultural dynamics in the career counseling relationship are addressed, and career counseling interventions that highlight the client’s identity in the contexts of culture and extended family are provided for career counselors.
*Recommended for further readings on Latina/o culture.
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Leong, F.T.L., Hardin, E.E., & Gupta, A. ( 2010). A cultural formulations approach to career assessment and career counseling with Asian American clients. Journal of Career Development, 37(1), 465-486.
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*Shinnar, R.S. ( 2007). A qualitative examination of Mexican immigrant’s career development. Journal of Career Development, 33, 338-375.
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