A Narrative Expansion of Emotionally Focused Therapy With Intercultural Couples. (January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Linhof, Angela Y.; Allan, Robert
• Is Part Of: Family journal. Volume 27:Number 1(2019:Jan.)
• Page Start: 44
• Page End: 49
• Publication Date: 2019-01
• Subjects: couple therapy -- intercultural couples -- multicultural -- emotionally focused therapy; Family psychotherapy -- Periodicals; Marital psychotherapy -- Periodicals; Family counseling -- Periodicals; Marriage counseling -- Periodicals; 616.8915605
• DOI: 10.1177/1066480718809426
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1066-4807

Abstract

Intercultural relationships continue to rise in the United States, while the fields of couple and family therapy research lag in their inclusion of diverse samples that best reflect these relationship realities. Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is an empirically supported approach to working with couples that offers promise for working with intercultural couples. In this article, we first review clinical considerations when working with intercultural couples and then discuss how therapists can expand EFT using narrative techniques to ensure the realities intercultural couples face are included in the therapeutic process. We conclude with specific suggestions for working with intercultural couples.