Abstract

In this paper the author explores, with concrete examples, some of the problems in cross-cultural psychotherapy with Native American women, in order to increase the awareness of other non-Indian therapists who find themselves working in similar environments. The Ethnic Validity model (Tyler, Sussewell, & Williams-McCoy, 1985) is summarized in order to provide a framework which may help to conceptualize psychotherapy practiced within and across ethnic groups. Although several sources are mentioned, the body of literature on psychotherapy with Native Americans is small, particularly in mainstream psychological publications. For this reason, the author relies mainly on personal observations. Examples of the variation of the treatment of women and their relative power and contributions among several southwestern pueblos are described. The main body of the paper consists of examples from the author's practice which illustrate the effect of patriarchal dominance on the lives of women, the importance of awareness of traditional taboos and the belief in witchcraft, and the importance of cultural sensitivity in therapy.