As therapists, we rarely use the word “normal” to describe others. However, “normativity” is framing a conversation so that a specific status is considered “the norm.” Hetero-normativity occurs when it’s “normal” to be heterosexual. Similarly, hetero-normativity occurs when it’s “not normal” to be gay. Spencer Hardy describes it eloquently in this video:
As a therapist, “good ethics” means being sensitive to our clients’ needs, cultures, and preferences. Although ethics is rarely black and white, it’s important to keep a high level of awareness of your own biases. Do you have support in the area of ethics? And who do you turn to when you encounter an ethical dilemma?
Explore more:
Maybe you need more support. If you’d like to deepen around cultural ethics, then enroll in our Cultural Ethics course by Robin Rio!
