Breaking the language barrier for non-native English speaking clients

Due to the changing trends in globalization and internationalization in the past few decades, there is a now a much greater focus on multicultural issues related to working with culturally diverse populations in the field of counseling psychology (Casas et al. 2010; Marsella, 2007). When compared to other aspects of diversity, such as race/ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and disability, little attention has been given to the issues of clients that are bilingual and use English as a second language. Given the fact that language is a critical component of ethnic identity (Clement, 1986; Phinney, 1998), and language difficulties can significantly affect the acculturation process (Kim, 1988; Noels et al., 1996; Winkelman 1994), it is imperative for counseling psychologists to pay more attention to the needs of clients that are bilingual and non-native English speakers. Through this roundtable presentation, the presenters will provide a brief overview of the literature focusing on approaches for working with clients that are bilingual and use English as a second language (e.g., Clauss, 1998; Kwiat et al., 1993; Santiago-Rivera, 1995; Santiago-Rivera, & Altarriba, 2002). Furthermore, the presentation will explore the effects of language barriers along with some strategies for addressing the disadvantages related to educational opportunities and social exclusion. In addition, the presenters will share their own experiences from both the perspectives of a person who uses English as a second language and a bilingual person in the U.S. Attendees will explore their personal reactions, their own experiences, and possible approaches to provide appropriate counseling for bilingual and non-native English speaking clients. It is expected that attendees at this roundtable will be able to gain increased awareness, knowledge, and skills related to effectively addressing the issues of bilingual and non-native English speaking clients in counseling