Faifai mālie – Balancing ourselves in our journey with Pasifika communities in person-centered and experiential psychotherapy and counselling

Abstract

ABSTRACT Pasifika communities in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ) are a vibrant, diverse and heterogenous population. Following their migration to Aotearoa NZ they experienced the challenges of western world concepts, ideologies and frameworks being imposed on their worldview(s), a process that has led to social and economic disparities alongside health inequities which include mental distress and ill-health. This article explores whether there is a place for person-centered experiential psychotherapy and counseling within a worldview of Pasifika people in Aotearoa NZ. This will also have relevance to Polynesian, indigenous and ethnic minority communities at a global level. Drawing on Pasifika methodologies, and specifically a Tongan one, this article explores a Pasifika person-centered approach that is informed by Pasifika values and practice. It concludes with recommendations for the field of person-centered experiential psychotherapy and counseling when working with Pasifika communities.