“Kura” in Papiamentu, the native language of Curaçao, means to restore to health, soundness or normality. One of the other meanings state that it is to bring about recovery from something. Also, to free from something objectionable or harmful. As a Caribbean returnee, you are going home. You expect it to feel amazing after years abroad, having felt serious culture shock. Only to find out that there is a steeping adjustment curve and added emotional stress, as all your old patterns get triggered. That’s what KuraTherapy offers: a private psychologist for Caribbean returnees adjusting to home.
What can psychological help for Caribbean returnees do?
KuraTherapy intends to help you learn to compassionately look at the psychological problems that are bringing you down. The ones that are standing between you and a healthy mental state. The idea is to help you cope with reverse culture shock. You might feel isolated, because of having to re-adjust to familiar cultural norms that you might not agree with anymore. Your family may expect things from you that you haven’t dealt with in a while, or you can feel alienated from your community. Old emotional patterns might pop up, which you need help with.
Cultural awareness for Caribbean returnees and psychoeducation
I focus on working on promoting awareness of psychological issues by giving workshops for both companies as institutions. In these I take into account the specific problems Caribbean returnees face. Also I present the radio show “Dokter, Ta Loko Mi Ta?” in order to break the stigma of mental health. I also join other media programs to talk about mental health in the Caribbean. This means that I can be hired to make an individualized workshop or course for your specific interest group.
Outside of being a culturally sensitive psychologist?
My name is Giullitta Anthony. When I’m not trying to help people with their psychological health, I enjoy being back on my island, Curacao. The sun and the sea are my loves. I am the happiest when I can either go snorkling and find turtles swimming about. Or when I go hiking in the many beautiful nature areas we have.
I’ve lived in a few different countries, which helped me become very flexible and always up for a challenge. Whenever I am not doing these things, I find myself dabbling in some modeling. Most days though you will not see me looking this fancy and made-up. Although my patients do call me a bit of a doll when they see me in person at work. This is simply because I love heels and dresses, I promise!
But all sillyness aside, I’d love to work with you. I have 12 years of experience as a psychologist and would love to help you on your way.