Authors: Dennis C. Wendt and Joseph P. Gone

Publication Year: 2016

Last Updated: 

Journal: Counseling Psychology

Keywords: Cultural Sensitivity and Appropriateness; Ethnicity; Mental and Behavioral Health; Race; Psychotherapy; Spirituality; Religion; Qualitative; Multiculturalism

Short Abstract: We present a narrative case study of an urban American Indian male college student who integrated Indigenous and professional therapies during an acute period of stress, loss, and depression.

Abstract: We present a narrative case study of an urban American Indian male college student who integrated Indigenous and professional therapies during an acute period of stress, loss, and depression. The first published case of an American Indian in an urban context, this article expands on previous clinical cases by focusing on the perspective of the client relative to his own conceptions of help-seeking behaviors. Based on qualitative analysis of five audio-recorded interviews, this case utilizes an innovative methodology to portray four approaches to healing (medication, counseling, bonding, and spirituality), which contribute to holistic well-being. Implications for counseling psychologists include being aware of how some American Indian clients may (a) view professional treatment dynamics through a Native cultural lens (e.g., seeing ideal communication as a “rhythm”); (b) utilize an expanded range of therapeutic agents; (c) resist medication for cultural and spiritual reasons; and (d) refrain from discussing spiritual matters with professionals.

Source: Link to Original Article.

Funding:

Code:

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5007066/

Type of Resource: Peer-reviewed scientific article