Psychoanalytic Theory and Cultural Competence in Psychotherapy

by Pratyusha Tummala-Narra

While psychoanalytic scholars often address specific aspects of diversity such as gender, race, immigration, religion, sexual orientation, and social class, the literature lacks a set of core principles to inform and support culturally competent practice. This approachable volume responds to that pressing need.

Drawing on the contributions of psychoanalytic scholars as well as multicultural and feminist psychologists, Pratyusha Tummala-Narra presents a theoretical framework that reflects the realities of clients’ lives and addresses the complex sociocultural issues that influence their psychological health.

Psychoanalytic theory proves to be particularly valuable in exploring unconscious processes, recurrent themes, and transference and counter-transference.

In examining these questions, the author provides engaging case illustrations from her own clinical practice, as well as findings from her research with youth of immigrant origin.

Genres: Social Work, Psychology

296 pages, Hardcover

Published January 18, 2016

Reviews

[Tavan T · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would deem Tummula-Narra’s book as essential reading for practitioners across therapeutic modalities. As a therapist, one’s being-in-the-world and all the meanings ascribed to it are inextricably linked to the treatment that one provides. Race, culture, ethnicity, gender, etc., are always in the therapy room. It is necessary to note the role that these factors play in patient’s lives, and in their presenting problems.