Qualitative assessment of transcultural psychotherapy by adolescents and their migrant families: Subjective experience and perceived effectiveness

Abstract

Objective Adolescent migrants present psychological disorders more frequently than the corresponding host population but their access to care and to follow-up are less effective. The French method of transcultural psychotherapy (TPT) was conceived to respond to these problems. Our objective is to assess how these adolescents and their families perceive the experience and effectiveness of TPT. Method We conducted semistructured interviews with the families of adolescents seen for TPT. The data were analyzed by a qualitative thematic methodology. Results We spoke to 21 participants in 8 families. The families came to TPT with a sense that the teen's current treatment was at an impasse. During the follow-up, they noted that family communication and relationships had improved, as had their connection to their culture of origin. Besides commenting on what they perceived as limitations, families identified specific elements of TPT as therapeutic. Conclusion The pronounced diversity of the group and the use of both multiperspective narration and an interpreter were specific elements driving the construction of a good therapeutic alliance, despite the initial barriers. Pursuit of the evaluation of TPT is essential to advance the psychiatric care of adolescent migrants.

Multimodal co-therapy for unaccompanied minors: a qualitative study

“…This is consistent with other recent studies, which emphasize the importance of native language and cultural explanation across native and host countries’ cultures, for the young patients and the professionals who care for them [ 14 , 32 ]. Transcultural psychotherapy is an essential component of MUCTUM, highlighting UMs’ skills acquired in native countries, cultural affiliations to one’s host country, culturally meaningful symptoms, and traditional care if valued by the patient [ 39 ]. Transcultural psychotherapy for children and adolescents is currently being assessed with randomized controlled trials [ 40 ].…”

A qualitative exploration of what works for migrant adolescents in transcultural psychotherapy: perceptions of adolescents, their parents, and their therapists

“…Putting into perspective the experiences of the different participants should improve our understanding of the elements of transcultural psychiatry that are effective in treating patients, that is, that help patients get better. This study complements another exploratory study that examined the experience of transcultural psychotherapy and its acceptability from the perspective of migrant adolescents and their families [ 38 ].…”

Engaging adolescents in family therapy: The role of English slang and digital communication norms in therapeutic settings

“…The hierarchical nature of traditional therapy, wherein therapists hold authority and expertise, can create power dynamics that hinder authentic engagement and collaboration. Furthermore, adolescents may feel misunderstood or judged by therapists who lack cultural competence or fail to acknowledge their unique perspectives and experiences (Carretier et al, 2020). Without a sense of trust and rapport, adolescents may be less likely to open up, share personal struggles, or actively participate in therapeutic activities, limiting the effectiveness of treatment outcomes.…”