Tools and Resources in the Waikato - We Get Interactive!

Now that we've established the need for better understanding by therapists of the realities of cultural experience from our clients, and the need to understand our own personal perspectives as well, what can we do to help us understand other cultural viewpoints, and whom can we turn to assist with our communication?

Language can form a large part of the problem in communicating with those from different cultures, so one obvious place to check is a translation service.  Hamilton Multicultural Services Trust (HMST) has the Waikato DHB contract for translating (written) and interpreting (spoken), with their Decypher service.  Here's an overview of the services they provide, plus some exercises for you to try (it won't hurt to have a go, I promise):

HMST is also home to the  the Waikato Migrant Resource Centre, Settlement Support New Zealand, Computers in Homes (helping refugees access computer technology), and runs a migrant employment programme.  Staff at the centre can generally help with questions concerning language, culture, and overlying religions. The DHB's chaplaincy service can be utilised by OTs wanting advice regarding religious and spiritual matters.