Therapists' Experiences of Cross-Ethnic Therapy With Spanish-Speaking Latina/o Clients

This qualitative study explored the experiences of 14 bilingual therapists who self-identified with an ethnic background other than Latina/o and whose first language is English, in conducting therapy to Spanish-speaking clients. The principles of the constant comparative method of data analysis were used to analyze the individual interviews. Results indicated that in addition to their Spanish language proficiency, the participants shared an interest in traveling and learning about other cultures. These factors coupled with the need for Spanish-speaking providers and the support received from colleagues and employers fostered their development as bilingual therapists. Having received little or no training to provide services to Spanish-speaking clients, they acquired their therapeutic skills by receiving feedback from their clients and by practicing. Speaking Spanish as their second language presented some unique linguistic challenges. Clients expressed surprise and asked questions when they discovered their therapists spoke Spanish. Showing respect, humbleness, curiosity, and interest in their life experiences and background helped the participants build strong working relationships with their clients. The participants discovered that revealing more about themselves relieved their clients' early doubts. Moreover, having a strong interest in working with this population and sharing Latina/o cultural values strengthened the connections with Latina/o clients. Este estudio cualitativo exploró las experiencias de 14 terapeutas bilingües, que se auto-definen con una etnicidad diferente a Latina/o y cuya lengua primaria es el inglés, al realizar terapia con clientes hispano parlantes. Los principios del método de análisis de comparación constante fueron usados para analizar las entrevistas individuales. Los resultados indicaron que los participantes compartían un interés for viajar y aprender sobre otras culturas además de tener habilidades para hablar el idioma español. Estos factores unidos a la necesidad de profesionales que hablen español y al apoyo recibido por colegas y empleadores fomentaron su desarrollo como terapeutas bilingües. Habiendo recibido poco o ningún entrenamiento para proveer servicios a clientes hispano parlantes, ellos adquirieron sus habilidades terapéuticas practicando y a través de sus propios clientes. Hablar español como segunda lengua presentó algunos desafíos lingüísticos específicos. Los pacientes mostraron asombro e hicieron pregun