With Dr Amirah Shah
Presented by Dr. Amirah Shah, a counsellor and psychotherapist with a rich background in psychology and counselling, this insightful lecture delves into transcultural support and the complexities of grief and trauma across diverse cultural landscapes. Born in Singapore, with formative years spent in Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan, Dr. Amirah identifies as a 'third culture kid.' Her lived experiences, combined with her extensive academic journey through Australian universities, have shaped her love for transculturalism.
In this lecture, Dr. Amirah brings her unique perspective as a humanistic psychotherapist. Her research, rooted in a phenomenological approach, emphasises the importance of lived experience in understanding loss, faith, and meaning-making across cultural boundaries. As a self-identified researcher-practitioner, she presents a pluralistic sense of self, reflecting her professional and personal hybridity across multiple cultures.
Dr. Amirah will discuss key concepts related to cultural hybridity and the shifting identities of individuals and communities navigating transcultural landscapes. Drawing on her research, she will highlight the "continuous coherence of certain traits, beliefs, and practices that transcend geography or history," especially relevant to diasporic populations. Participants will gain insight into the notion of a cohesive identity that transcends time and place, challenging the idea of a singular cultural identity.
A core theme of the lecture will focus on the complexities of transculturalism in contemporary Australia, particularly within Muslim communities. Dr. Amirah will explore the evolving dynamics of cultural identity, examining the increasing interplay between different cultural groups and the growing influence of dominant cultural norms. She will discuss the implications of these changes for providing effective support to individuals and communities, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of cultural integration and its impact on identity within Australia’s diverse societal landscape.
Join Dr. Amirah Shah as she shares her valuable insights on transculturalism and cultural humility, and learn how to apply these concepts to enhance your practice in today’s diverse society.