Basics of Intercultural Family Counseling

Canfield, B. (Ed.). (2020). Intercultural perspectives on family counseling. Routledge, 229 pp. $49.95

“…Additionally, Canfield (2020) suggests therapists consider asking clients what they think of the racial or cultural differences between themselves and the therapist as a way of creating openness around diversity between client and therapist (Chapter 1, “Basics of Intercultural Family Counseling”). However, this could put pressure on the client to offer a response that is considered socially appropriate.…”

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Intercultural Perspectives on Family Counseling (Canfield, 2020) offers readers an opportunity to better conceptualize cultural and contextual considerations for therapy with diverse families and populations, from countries around the world. The abbreviated vitae of each contributor at the beginning of the book demonstrates an eclectic list of authors, some perhaps native to the population discussed within their respective chapters.

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“…As Applied Cybernetics is the overall framework for the book, the authors present ways in which therapists might utilize theory and therapeutic approaches to support clients of a specific cultural group, often with case studies and examples to further demonstrate how to apply counseling techniques to address a presenting issue. Canfield (2020) holds true to the intention of the book, to prioritize the importance of respecting cultural values while creating an environment in which families can decide how they may best utilize therapy to address presenting issues (Chapter 1, “Basics of Intercultural Family Counseling”). As a compilation, there is significant emphasis on how therapists may support clients of diverse cultures through challenges of power and oppression between government and general population; male and females within patriarchal societies; physical abuse against women presented in multiple societies; therapist and client.…”