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Chapter 11 - Psychotherapy with Diverse Adults in Later Life

from Part 3 - Special Topics in Psychotherapy in Later Life

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  09 January 2020

By
Sarah A. Nguyen ,
Philip Blumenshine  and
Boski Patel
Edited by
Rajesh R. Tampi ,
Brandon Yarns ,
Kristina F. Zdanys  and
Deena J. Tampi
Rajesh R. Tampi
Affiliation:
Case Western Reserve University, Ohio
Brandon Yarns
Affiliation:
VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System
Kristina F. Zdanys
Affiliation:
University of Connecticut
Deena J. Tampi
Affiliation:
Diamond Healthcare Corporation
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Summary

Culturally diverse populations now include groups defined by age, gender, gender identity, language, country of origin and acculturation, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, religion/spirituality, and geographic location. In this chapter, we will explore issues that arise when performing psychotherapy with diverse older adults, including ethnic minorities, women, LGBTQ, and veterans. Although there is limited evidence on the efficacy of specific therapy modalities with diverse older adults, review of the current literature and clinical guidance on important challenges encountered is provided. For diverse older adults, common psychotherapeutic factors – the quality of the therapeutic alliance, the ability to express empathy, and the therapist’s competence and experience – may be more important than the specific therapy modality used.

Keywords

race and ethnicitycross-culturalLGBTQwomenveterans
Type
Chapter
Information
Psychotherapy in Later Life , pp. 158 - 166
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2020

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