In my work as a coach and consultant for entrepreneurs, I’m privileged to witness the complexity of human resilience every day. Through my current studies in a Master of Counselling Psychology program, I’ve deepened my understanding of how social, cultural, racial, and gendered identities shape how we heal.
I’m learning that healing doesn’t happen in isolation. Each person brings a layered story, informed by intersecting identities. And even with the best of intentions, I must be mindful of the power I hold in my role. Microaggressions—those subtle, often unconscious slights—can impact a client’s sense of safety and worth, especially when their lived experience differs from my own.
As someone from the dominant culture in Canada, I recognize that my presence, assumptions, or attempts to “help” can unintentionally silence or diminish a client’s autonomy. My responsibility is to stay open, curious, and humble—especially when I cannot personally relate. By trusting the client’s definition of their trauma and values, I ensure their voice remains central.
Learning about intersectionality has shown me that people rarely face a single challenge. Economic hardship, systemic barriers, and social expectations often intersect in ways that compound stress and limit access to support. Effective care—whether in a coaching or counselling context—means honouring those intersections, resisting the urge to fix, and supporting holistic growth that acknowledges the full human experience.
Healing, after all, begins with being seen.
Reflection + Journal Prompt:
Can you recall a time when you may have overlooked or misunderstood someone’s experience—perhaps even your own? What assumptions were present, and what might you see differently now if you paused to look more closely?
Sources
Collins (2018) – Culturally Responsive and Socially Just Counselling
Prieto et al. (2016)
Shebib (2022)
Photo by Vladislav Nahorny on Unsplash
