Applying the “Tepa Selira” Concept to Enhance Empathy in Multicultural Counseling (“Applying the Concept of 'Tepa Selira' to Enhance Empathy in Multicultural Counseling.”)

Mardiah; Ajia Syafitri; Arrahmahalya

Authors

Mardiah Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi
Ajia Syafitri Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi
Arrahmahalya Universitas Islam Negeri Sjech M. Djamil Djambek Bukittinggi

Keywords:

Empathy, Counseling, Multicultural, Literature Study, Tepa Selira

Abstract

Cultural diversity in Indonesia presents significant challenges for counselors, who must navigate diverse cultural values to provide effective therapeutic support. The Javanese philosophical concept of Tepa Selira, which emphasizes empathy, self-reflection, and the ability to "put oneself in the other's shoes," offers a culturally responsive framework for enhancing the therapeutic alliance. This paper explores the application of Tepa Selira as a pedagogical and practical tool in multicultural counseling to bridge the gap between counselors and clients.The research method employed is a qualitative literature study trough literature data collection; this study synthesizes traditional Javanese ethics with contamporary multicultural counseling theories, such as the tripartite model of multicultural competence. The study identifies that Tepa Selira serves as a mechanism to reduce ethnocentrism and foster deep cognitive and affective empathy. The results indicate that integrating this indigenous concept allows counselors to move beyond superficial cultural awareness to a deeper relational understanding of clients' lived experiences. The study concludes that Tepa Selira serves as an important indigenous contribution to global counseling practice, providing a structured yet flexible approach to managing cultural diversity.

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