The empathic context in psychotherapy with people of color.

Abstract

In this chapter I will discuss a perspective on empathic processes in psychodynamically oriented psychotherapy with ethnic minority clients of color' in America. The topic of empathy can be seen to be an important one because it is fundamental to the establishment of a helping relationship. More and more the writing on psychoanalytically oriented therapy emphasizes the quality of the therapist-patient relationship as fundamental to positive change (Gill, 1983;Luborsky, 1984;Strupp & Binder, 1984). This is particularly true in work with ethnic minority clients of color seeking therapy. Various writers note the therapist's task of properly managing the initial sessions with these patients (Griffith &Jones, 1979). Sue and Zane (1987) note the therapist's task early on of establishing his or her "credibility" with the ethnic minority patient.2 Gibbs (1985) suggests that African-American clients, mindful of racism, initially tend to take an interpersonal orientation in the therapy situation. That is, they are particularly I gratefully acknowledge the helpful comments of Dr. Richard Bock who read earlier drafts of this chapter.' In this paper when I use the terms peopk of color or ethnic rnmmties I will be referring to people of African-American, American-Indian, Asian-American, and Latino background. 1 will be writing from my greater knowledge of the literature on African Americans, although I will attempt to formulate what 1 have to say so as to make it broadly relevant to the range of people of color in America. psychotherapeutic help.

Discursive empathy: A new foundation for therapeutic practice

“…For example, similar to his suggestions for reformulating the self in liberal-humanism, Jenkins (1997) advocates that one's agency, particularly their 'imaginative capacities' (p. 324), will enable therapists to enter the psychological world of people who are different from them. Drawing upon constructivist principles, Jenkins' approach, while hopeful, fails to fully appreciate the full impact that cultural ideas have on the lives of both therapists and clients.…”

Understanding Empathy as a Complex Construct: A Review of the Literature

“…A significant portion of the current literature emphasizes that therapeutic empathy be understood more ecologically, as a process that focuses not just on the person, but rather on the person-in-context/environment (Dyche and Zayas 2001;Freedberg 2007;Jenkins 1999;Martin and Dawda 1999;Nissim-Sabat 1995;O'Hara 1999;Parson 1993;Pedersen 2008;Pugh and Vetere 2009;Raines 1990;Sells et al 2004). This portion of the literature coincides with increased attention to therapist cultural competence (Sue and Lam 2002;Wintersteen et al 2005).…”

Culture and the therapeutic relationship: Perspectives from Chinese clients

“…What seems essential is for the therapist to endeavour to understand the unique individual, and to make sense of his or her distress, within the context of possible cultural influences (as well as other influences). As Jenkins (1997) argues, empathy may be a fundamental process in this activity. Indeed, there is some evidence to suggest that therapists' sensitivity to cultural and racial issues is associated with their capacity for empathy (Burkard & Knox, 2004;Wang et al, 2003).…”