"Alguien abrió la puerta:" The Phenomenology of Bilingual Latinx Clients' Use of Spanish and English in Psychotherapy

There has been a growing recognition of the role that various aspects of culture play in the theory and practice of psychotherapy. One aspect of culture that has received little attention, however, is language. Specifically, we lack comprehensive understanding of the value bilingual clients find in expressing thoughts, feelings, and experiences in two languages. Research that enhances understanding of the role that bilingualism plays in psychotherapy may thus help improve the quality of services that bilingual clients receive. To this end, we interviewed eight bilingual Latinx people (seven of Mexican descent and one Puerto Rican) between the ages of 20 and 37 about their experience using Spanish and English in psychotherapy. Using descriptive phenomenological analysis, we identified and interpreted 250 meaning units that were grouped into five overarching themes: (a) Enhancing Expression and Understanding, (b) An Affirming Experience, (c) Facilitating Therapeutic Processes, (d) Utility of a Therapist Bilingual Orientation, and (e) Strengthening the Therapeutic Relationship. Findings speak to the value for bilingual Latinx clients of being able to use both of their languages in psychotherapy. Implications for multicultural psychotherapy research and practice are discussed. Clinical Impact Statement Question: This study explores the meaning that bilingual Latinx clients ascribe to using English and Spanish in therapy to foster emotional expression and facilitate various aspects of the therapeutic process. Findings: The findings could point clinicians to helpful actions, attitudes, and dynamics that may influence their approach to therapy with bilingual clients. Meaning: Ultimately, attention to bilingual clients' experience of using both of their languages in therapy may promote a multicultural orientation and, concomitantly, culturally sensitive treatment. Next Steps: Future steps include researching both client and therapist views simultaneously as well as researching other linguistic and ethnic groups.