Reference no: EM133599122

Case: Red, a 39-year-old Native American who lives in Chicago is seeking came in seeking help for alcohol abuse. He started drinking alcohol at age 10, and also uses "herbals" to treat his anxiety. Red is estranged from his wife, Franci, their two children as well as his family who lives on a reservation. His drinking had a negative impact on his family and on a few occasions has yelled at his wife and kids, and once he slapped his wife. Red did not finish high school, has worked various jobs to put a roof over his family's head. In the last few years, Red has been fired several times for being under the influence of alcohol but was able to work his way up into a manager position and was just let go. He wasn't very satisfied at work and occasionally got into arguments with his assistant manager. During therapy, it became evident that Red used alcohol to cover up his feelings of anger, frustration and at times low self-esteem.

What are some of the assumptions that could be made about Red? What is the origin of those assumptions?
Can you describe the psychological impact these assumptions may be having on Red?
How might race, gender, and age be affecting the therapeutic relationship between the counselor and Red?
If you were Red's therapist, how would you approach your work with him? What sociocultural dynamics would exist between you, and how might they influence the therapeutic process?
What role might cultural mistrust play in this process?