Wrapping and Unwrapping Emotions: Clinical Practice with East Asian Immigrant Elders

Abstract

Using the cultural norm of the way gifts are wrapped, unwrapped, and exchanged as a metaphor for interpersonal connections, this paper presents the way therapists can establish therapeutic relationships with East Asian clients who do not express emotions openly. We first discuss the ways in which emotions are conceptualized, experienced, and expressed in East Asian cultures. We then present vignettes of our work with older Chinese and Japanese immigrant women to illustrate the importance of therapist authenticity and co-construction of the therapeutic relationship. Using the framework of relational/cultural theory, which posits that healing takes place in the context of mutually empathic growth-fostering relationships, we illustrate the importance of establishing mutuality between therapist and client as a form of cultural empathy.

A Case Using the Process Model of Multicultural Counseling Competence

“…In light of what Celeste shares, Dr. Morgan realizes that her interventions are grounded in Western ideology. Encouraging Celeste to articulate her feelings interferes with her value of maintaining harmony with others since emotions tend to “center on the needs and responses of others rather than the self” (Shibusawa & Chung, 2009, p. 313). Therefore, Dr. Morgan intentionally chooses to validate emotional control as normal.…”

Relational Social Work Practice with Diverse Populations

“…E xploring the power of healing which takes place in the context of mutually empathic growth-fostering relationships (Shibusawa and Chung 2009 ) Asian cultural backgrounds usually contain healing traditions and practices. Even when physicians have provided them with referrals, many Asian American clients do not access mental health services when needed (Ino and Glicken 2002 ).…”

“…E xpanding the meaning of culture, cultural ideologies, and social networks A "growth-fostering" strategy that focuses on the client's future development is advised in the treatment process (Shibusawa and Chung 2009 ). This strategy not only utilizes the cultural contexts of the client's past experiences but also addresses the future aspect of the ever-changing environment in which the client functions.…”

The Role of Race and English Proficiency on the Health of Older Immigrants

“…Numerous studies have documented the relationship between English language proficiency and health (Ponce, Hays, & Cunningham, 2006;Solar & Irwin, 2007;Shibusawa & Chung, 2009). Ponce and colleagues (2006) limited English proficient older adults were more likely to be in poor health compared to English proficient older adults.…”