Psychotherapeutic issues with Asian American women

Although several authors have written of the unique needs and stresses encountered by Asian American women, little information is available about the culturally sensitive therapeutic approaches in working with them. This paper attempts to identify some of the issues relevant for work with various groups of Asian American women. Sources of stress are discussed considering a variety of economic, cultural, and historic factors. Therapeutic approaches for dealing with these stressors are also discussed. In addition to traditional therapies, feminist perspectives are considered and issues of gender roles are raised. Finally, case examples and suggestions for therapists are provided.Paper presented at the annual convention of Asian American Psychological Association, New York, 1987.