Cultural Constructions of Trauma and the Therapeutic Interventions of Caribbean Healing Traditions

The psychological literature indicates that integrating traditional healing practices into counselling and psychotherapy with Caribbean clients may address some of the mental health concerns of this population and the underutilization of mental health services. Traditional healing is often used in lieu of mental health services; however, the lack of knowledge of the precise therapeutic interventions and mechanisms of change that are key components to such integration limit its clinical utility. To address this gap in the literature, this study explored the specific ways in which Caribbean individuals conceptualize trauma and the therapeutic interventions of Caribbean healing traditions as a treatment modality. A constructivist grounded theory approach was implemented in the data collection and analysis. Ten adults of Caribbean heritage living in Toronto, who used the therapeutic interventions of Caribbean healing traditions, each participated in one semi-structured interview. Three overarching themes emerged from the data: experiencing trauma and suffering, explanations and meaning of trauma and suffering, and healing interventions. The study highlights the role of history and culture in shaping idioms of trauma, distress and healing, and contributes to both research and practice by offering a substantive framework for assessing, diagnosing and treating Caribbean clients, which may address the many challenges to mental health care for this population.Ph.D.2019-12-19 00:00:0