Asian international psychotherapist’s experiences of client’s microaggression in therapy.

Abstract

Much of the multicultural counseling literature focuses on how White or U.S.-born therapists can work effectively with clients of color. However, with the increasing number of racial minority and international therapists and trainees, there is a need to expand the multicultural counseling literature to acknowledge and center the experiences of therapists and trainees of color, particularly the experiences of Asian international therapists. Specifically, a greater understanding and guidelines are needed regarding how Asian international therapists handle clients' xenophobia, racism, and microaggressions in therapy. This qualitative study interviewed 11 licensed practicing Asian international psychotherapists within the United States about their experiences of clientinitiated microaggressions in therapy. Consensual qualitative research was used to analyze interview data. Results indicated four domains pertaining to Asian international psychotherapists' experiences in therapy: xenophobia, microaggression, impact, and strategy. Participants reported complex negative impacts of xenophobia and microaggressions on their well-being as well as the therapeutic relationship and treatment outcomes. Additionally, participants identified the difficulty and complexity of addressing client-initiated microaggressions in session. Implications for training and practice as well as suggestions for future research are provided. Clinical Impact StatementQuestion: How do client-initiated microaggressions impact Asian international psychotherapist and client's treatment process? Findings: This study provides insights into Asian international psychotherapist's encounters with client-initiated xenophobia and microaggressions during treatment process. The study also identifies the multidimensional impact of these negative cultural events, not only affecting therapists' well-being but also inflicting substantial harm on the therapeutic alliance and treatment outcomes. Meaning: These findings highlight the importance of investigating client-initiated microaggression and cultural rupture in therapy as well as effective clinical intervention to mitigate the negative impact on therapy process and outcome. Next Steps: Future research can seek to investigate possible strategies to alleviate client-initiated microaggression in therapy.