REAL WORLD THERAPY

Considerations for Treating Koreans

Jimmy Kim, Psy.D.

INTRODUCTION

• Hello…

• LIJMC: ZHH

• 200 +

No Disclosures or Financial Relationships

CONSERVATIVE ESTIMATES

Asians comprise 5% of the population in the US but

approximately 60% of the world’s population

ASIAN AMERICANS: BACKGROUND

United States: Individualism

Asians: CollectivisticMedical & Somatic Complaints

Model Minority: Pros & Cons

ASIAN PATIENTS

Come in Worse…Recognition of Family’s Efforts

Begin by Validating to Dispel Embarrassment

HELPING FAMILIES

A time to educate familiesDispel myths and provide realistic expectations

Resources such as NIMH website as well as in the community

TREATING THE PATIENT

Use of Certified TranslatorsTranslator PhonesSevere Paranoia = No PhoneDirector, Lawyer from MHLD: Meds over Objection, State Hearing for Retention

SUBTLE NOTES

Asians ≠ Asian Mental Health Professionals

Powerful Stigma = ShameDepends on Level of Assimilation to their Identity

MANNERS & BEHAVIORS

Huddle before meeting to Focus on message

Bowing: Should I or Shouldn’t I?

Translating in short bursts and in real time

Direct eye contact & Seating

DELIVERING BAD NEWS

Streamline Communication amongst Treatment Team members

Reduce likelihood of injury through preparation

THERAPY ON AN INPATIENT SERVICE

Should I or Shouldn’t I?Akin to Crisis InterventionSomething > NothingProfessional Responsibility < Moral Compass

IN SUMMARY

Not necessarily reducing negative mental stigma

Best to provide information regarding services and access

RESOURCES

Hamilton Madison House: Korean Clinic

(718) 899 – 8918Lifenet.nyc (Korean Community)

NIMH.NIH.gov