Have access already?

Get access to this chapter:

Or get access to the entire book:

Chapter 12: Cultural And Treatment Considerations When Using EMDR Therapy With Latinx Clients

DOI:

10.1891/9780826163424.0012

Authors

  • Urdaneta, Viviana
  • Triana, Viviana

Abstract

The Latinx population is growing in the United States, and it is imperative that therapists provide culturally sensitive services to this population. This chapter addresses ways to integrate cultural considerations in working with Latinx clients within the eight phases of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to assist with case conceptualization, treatment planning, and reprocessing of trauma and painful life experiences. It emphasizes the importance of considering acculturation, immigration, bilingualism, fictive-kin family members, and historical and current socio political situations as both resources and challenges for this population. This chapter includes specific strategies that have been found relevant to clinical work with Latinx including the utilization of EMDR therapy in groups and playful interventions that embrace and celebrate culture. It discusses three principles for treatment and case conceptualization: First, follow the client’s interest; second, be curious, ask questions, and maintain an open attitude; and third, utilize and emphasize cultural strengths and resiliency.