Multicultural Considerations in the Working Alliance

Abstract

The author addresses the importance of the working alliance from a multicultural perspective. In order to best serve the needs of racial/ethnic minority clients, it is critical to acknowledge and consider their differential social and cultural realities, as well as the therapists’ own sociocultural contexts. Therapists may need to be intentional in their attempt to connect with racial/ethnic minority clients by developing appreciation and respect for cultural diversity. The appreciation and respect for cultural diversity that is developed from therapist’s self-work can then facilitate an open, accepting, honest, and empathic working relationship with racial/ethnic minority clients. The author of this chapter provides clinical examples and specific therapeutic skills that can foster the working alliance with racial/ethnic minority clients.