Multicultural Therapy A Practice Imperative

Part of the bestselling Theories of Psychotherapy® Series from the American Psychological Association

In this book, distinguished psychologists Melba J. T. Vasquez and Josephine D. Johnson offer a carefully constructed overview of the history, theory, and practice of multicultural therapy, with case examples and ties to current events that bring the text to life.

While multicultural competence in psychotherapy has become part of the mainstream fundamental knowledge and skill set required for effective practice, now more than ever, it requires increased understanding and sophistication on the part of the professional. The multiculturally competent therapist must be prepared to address their own behaviors and cultural assumptions, those of their clients, and the relationship between the two. The book covers the development of multicultural competence and cultivation of cultural humility; explores relationships with other major systems of therapy; and analyzes its applications, effectiveness, and limitations. Chapters discuss the therapeutic process, integrating multiculturalism and social justice, and multiculturalism in education, training, and professional development.

This book pays particular attention to racial and ethnic identities, while additionally exploring the intersectionality of a variety of strands of identity that are also aspects of individuals’ experiences. The authors emphasize that a commitment to multicultural therapy is inextricably interwoven with a commitment to social justice, which recognizes that living in an unjust system creates many of the problems individuals must address.

Melba J. T. Vasquez, PhD, is a psychologist in independent practice in Austin, Texas. Dr. Vasquez served as the 2011 president of the American Psychological Association (APA). She has also previously served as president of the Texas Psychological Association, APA Division 35 (Society for the Psychology of Women), and APA Division 17 (Society of Counseling Psychology), as well as a term on the APA Board of Directors. She is a cofounder of APA Division 45 (Society for the Psychological Study of Culture, Ethnicity and Race) and the National Multicultural Conference and Summit. Dr. Vasquez has coauthored several books in addition to dozens of book chapters and journal articles. 

Josephine D. Johnson, PhD, has a private practice in Farmington Hills, Michigan, providing services to adolescents, adults, and families, and clinical supervision to doctoral and master's level psychologists. She also has worked as a consultant to community mental health agencies and other organizations, and as a specialist with residential treatment facilities. Dr. Johnson served on the American Psychological Association Board of Directors and in numerous groups, including the Committee for the Advancement of Professional Practice, and was chair of the Task Force on the Implementation of the Multicultural Guidelines. She was president of the Michigan Psychological Association and named its "Psychologist of the Year" in 2009, and has served as Michigan's Federal Advocacy Coordinator and as an officer of the Metro Detroit Association of Black Psychologists. Dr. Johnson has conducted numerous workshops and trainings on multiculturalism, including a cultural sensitivity retreat experience.