Towards Culturally Sensitive Care: Addressing Challenges in Asian and Asian American Mental Health Services

Abstract

Past research has indicated the factors that prevented Asians/Asian Americans from seeking mental health services. However, few studies examined their experiences in receiving mental health services. This study utilized a convenience sample with a non-identifying online survey. As part of the larger survey, this analysis concentrated on addressing two open-ended questions that inquired about the obstacles and challenges that the participants encountered while receiving therapy and the strategies they employed to overcome these challenges. Using qualitative methods to analyze the data, four themes emerged to describe the obstacles Asian/Asian American clients experience in mental health services, including a lack of trust in therapy and therapists, lack of cultural understanding by therapists, language barrier, and challenges related to access and resources. Results are discussed along with best practices and clinical implications for therapists working with Asian/Asian American individuals, couples, and families.