Dr. Elsie Jones-Smith  is a licensed psychologist, a certified school psychologist, and the President of the Strengths-Based Institute. She holds two Ph.D. degrees, one in clinical psychology from Michigan State University and the other in counselor education from the University at Buffalo.  She is a Fellow in two divisions of the American Psychological Association, Division 17, the Society of Counseling Psychology, and Division 45, the Society for the Psychological Study of Culture, Ethnicity, and Race. She is a Diplomate in counseling psychology (ABPP), a Fellow of the Academy of Counseling Psychology, and a prior Distinguished Visitor for the American Psychological Association.Dr. Jones-Smith has extensive experience in strengths-based therapy, graduate level teaching, program evaluation (Head Start, Title –Chapter 1), tests construction, and psychological consultation with schools. Her clinical orientation is strengths-based. She has currently expanded her clinical work to include cultural neuroscience.She is the author of six books, including the recently published Culturally Diverse Counseling: Theories and Practice (Sage, 2019). Second Edition of Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy: An Integrative Approach (2016) with Sage Publications (which presents a chapter on Neuroscience and describes it as the Fifth Force in psychology); Spotlighting the Strengths of Every Single Student: Why U.S. Schools Need a New, Strengths-Based Approach (2011, ABC-CLIO (2011); and Nurturing Nonviolent Children: A Guide for Parents, Educators, and Counselors (Praeger, 2008).Two of her articles (“The Strengths-Based Counseling Model” (which was nominated as the outstanding article in TCP for 2006) and “Ethnic Minorities: Life Stress, Social Support and Mental Health Issues” (1985) have been cited by The Counseling Psychologist as major contributions to the field of psychology. She has served on numerous editorial boards, including The Counseling Psychologist (TCP), The Journal of Counseling Psychology, and Counselor Education and Supervision.Dr. Jones-Smith has developed and published two theories in psychology: Strengths-Based Therapy and Ethnic Identity Development. In addition, she has developed a strengths-based educational approach for working with youth in schools and several instruments that measure ethnic identity development, students’ strengths, and teachers’ strengths.

"Understanding cultural perspectives of our clients is a continuous challenge. Elsie Jones-Smith succinctly presents a multicultural strength-based model to ease the unique challenges in working with diverse clients. Empower yourself to empower your clients."

• PrefaceAcknowledgmentsAbout the AuthorChapter 1. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy: The JourneyIntroduction: The Journey to Becoming a Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based TherapistThe Profound Influence of CultureOur Brains Are Culturally ConnectedAffirming Each Person’s ImportanceThe Integration of Culturally Responsive and Strengths-Based TherapyBrief History and Overview of the Multicultural MovementMastering the Multicultural Counseling CompetenciesEthical Issues and MulticulturalismThe Evidence-Based Movement in Multicultural CounselingBeginning the Cultural Competency JourneyLevels of Counselor Competency DevelopmentClinical Skill Development: Cultural Awareness and KnowledgeMajor Barriers to Culturally Competent CounselingNeuroscience, the Brain, and the Invisible Neural Barrier of Ethnic/Racial BiasSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 2. Cultural Meaning Systems, Cultural Trust, and Cultural HumilityIntroductionCultural PrinciplesThe Iceberg Concept of CultureEmic and Etic Perspectives on CultureCulture and NeuroscienceNeuroscience and Cultural DifferencesThe Globalization of CultureCulture and the Process of Identity Development: The Tripartite ModelThe Ethnic Self: Ethnicity as a SchemaResearch on the Positive Benefits of a Cultural IdentityDoes One Have to Be of the Same Cultural/Ethnic/Racial Background to Counsel Clients Effectively?Assimilation, Marginalization, Acculturation, and Acculturative StressCulturally Responsive Counseling: Reaching Across BarriersUnderstanding Clients’ Cultural StoriesCulturally Competent Clinical KnowledgeCulturally Responsive Knowledge Skills for the Initial InterviewCultural Trust: A Critical Issue in Culturally Diverse CounselingCultural Empathy and Cultural CompetenceLevels of Culturally Competent Clinical RespondingThe Culturally Competent Skill of Counselor Cultural HumilityToward a Model for Evaluating Culturally Competent Clinical Skill Development of CounselorsSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 3. Neuroscience, Multiple Cultural Identities, and Cultural StrengthsIntroductionNeuroscience, CACREP Standards, and Major Counseling AssociationsFoundational Concepts in Neuroscience for CounselorsThe BrainMapping the Cultural Architecture of the BrainCultural Identity Formation and NeuroscienceBrain Regions and Cultural IdentitySome Important Findings in Cultural NeuroscienceCultural Identity and the Cultural Formulation Interview for the DSM-5The Negativity Bias of the Brain: Findings in NeuroscienceIs the Brain Hardwired to See the Glass Half Empty or Half Full?Mental Health From a Neuroscientific PerspectiveNeuroimaging Techniques and the BrainNeuroscience: Psychotherapy Changes Your BrainThe Therapeutic Relationship From a Neuroscientific PerspectiveNeuroscience and the Culturally Responsive CounselorMirror Neurons and CounselorsWhat Happens When a Counselor Focuses on a Client’s Negative Life Events?Neuroscience and Multiple Cultural IdentitiesWhat Is a Multicultural Identity?The Need for Clinicians to Adopt a Multicultural IdentitySummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 4. Strengths-Based Development, Culture, and Clinical PracticeIntroductionCulture, the Brain, and Strengths DevelopmentThe Neurobiology of Human Strengths DevelopmentStrengths and the Brain’s Pruning ProcessRelational Components of Strengths DevelopmentAttachment Theory and Strengths DevelopmentBowlby’s Theory of Attachment: The Foundation for Understanding Individual Strengths DevelopmentSignificance of Attachment Relationships and Strengths DevelopmentStrengths Development and the Importance of a Trusted RelationshipStrengths Development and AttentionAttachment Patterns Across CulturesSignificance of Cultural Attachment, Migration, and AcculturationStrengths Development, the Narrative Process, and the MindStrengths as Dialogic Conversations With the SelfWestern and Eastern Views on Human Strengths: The Chinese PerspectiveHow Do I Make Culturally Responsive Counseling Strengths-Based?The Philosophy of Strengths-Based TherapyCultural MindsetsCulturally Responsive Strengths-Based PracticeSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 5. The Strengths-Based Therapy Model and Culturally Responsive CounselingIntroductionThe Revised Strengths-Based Therapy ModelStrengths-Based Therapy TechniquesSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 6 Culturally Responsive Assessment and the Cultural Formulation InterviewIntroductionGeneral Assessment Principles in Counseling and PsychotherapyClinical Issues in Conducting a Qualitative, Culturally Responsive AssessmentThe DSM-5 and the Cultural Formulation InterviewThe Four Domains of the Cultural Formulation InterviewCultural Genogram: An Assessment ToolThe Strengths-Based Therapy Model’s Assessment ProcessCreating a Strengths GenogramAssess the Client’s Potential for Self-Harm and Risk to OthersSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 7. Culturally Responsive Case Conceptualization and Treatment PlanningIntroductionCase Conceptualization: Some General ElementsCulturally Responsive Case ConceptualizationCase Conceptualization and the Cultural Formulation InterviewStrengths-Based Case ConceptualizationStrengths-Based Treatment PlansCulturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy TechniquesSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 8. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for African AmericansIntroductionThe African American Population: Some Basic DemographicsHistorical and Psychosocial Issues for Blacks: Oppression, Discrimination, and the Legacy of SlaveryAfrican Americans and Cultural ValuesCultural Strengths of African AmericansNTU: An Afrocentric Model for Counseling African AmericansSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 9. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for American Indians and Alaska NativesIntroductionDefining Group MembershipDemographic and Population StatisticsWho Is an “Authentic” or “Real Indian”?Socioeconomic StatusTheory of Historical Trauma Among American IndiansEthnic/Racial Stereotypes, Racism, and MicroaggressionsWorldviewFamily Structure: The Tribe as FamilyCultural IdentityCultural ValuesCultural StrengthsHealing: The Circle and Medicine Wheel in Indian LifeCounseling Applications of the Circle and Medicine WheelMental Health ChallengesCounseling Approaches for American Indians and Alaska NativesSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 10. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific IslandersIntroductionDemographic and Population StatisticsHistorical Changes in the Asian American ProfileSocioeconomic Status of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders: 2013Asian Americans as the “Model Ethnic Minority”: Myth or Reality?Ethnic/Racial Stereotypes, Racism, and MicroaggressionsCultural Issues of Asian Americans and Pacific IslandersAsian American and Pacific Islander Communication: High-Context CultureCultural Identity of Asian Americans: No One Identity Model for AllCultural Strengths and Contributions of Asian AmericansAcculturation and Cultural Issues Affecting Mental HealthCultural Factors in Counseling Asian AmericansSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 11. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Hispanic and Latino/a AmericansIntroductionHispanic/Latino American Cultural ValuesAcculturation Conflicts for Hispanic/Latino AmericansCultural Identity of Hispanics and LatinosHispanic/Latino Cultural StrengthsHispanic/Latino Physical and Mental Health IssuesCounseling Approaches for Working With Hispanic/Latino ClientsSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 12. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Arab and Muslim AmericansIntroductionMicroaggressions Against Arab and Muslim AmericansCultural Values and Worldview of Arabs and MuslimsAcculturation: Patterns and ConflictsMental Health Issues for Arab and Muslim AmericansCounseling Arab and Muslim AmericansCounseling Arab and Muslim Americans: Some RecommendationsSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 13. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for White Americans of European AncestryIntroductionSocioeconomic Status of White AmericansEthnic Group Saliency for White AmericansThe White American WorldviewModels of White Racial Identity DevelopmentThe Hardiman White Racial Identity ModelThe Helms Model of White Identity DevelopmentCounseling White Americans of European AncestrySummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 14. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for WomenIntroductionDemographics of American WomenSocioeconomic Status of U.S. WomenMicroaggressions Against Women and Gender InequalityThe Mental Health Issues of WomenCounseling Approaches for Women: Feminist TherapyDissatisfaction With Existing Psychological TheoriesDissatisfaction With Diagnostic Categories and Mother BlamingTraditional Theories Versus Feminist Therapies: Six CharacteristicsKey Concepts of Feminist TherapyGender Role Stereotyping Across CulturesThe Social Construction of GenderGender and Power DifferentialsFeminist Therapy ApproachesGoals of Feminist TherapyThe Role of Men in Feminist TherapyTechniques of Feminist TherapyFeminist Therapy and Multicultural TherapyIntegration of Feminist Therapy With Other ApproachesSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 15. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for LGBTQ IndividualsIntroductionDemographic and LGBTQ Population DataSocioeconomic StatusDiscrimination and the Gay Rights MovementLGBTQ Identity DevelopmentTransgender Identity DevelopmentComing Out and Gender Identity Development for Gays, Lesbians, and BisexualsComing Out for People of Color: A “Tricultural Experience”LGBTQ Youth and SchoolsLGBTQ Families: Some FactsMental Health Issues and the LGBTQ CommunityTop 10 Physical and Mental Health Concerns of LGBTQ College StudentsStrengths of LGBTQ PopulationsCounseling Members of the LGBTQ CommunityThe Therapeutic Process in Gay and Lesbian PsychotherapyRole of the Therapist in Working With LGBTQ ClientsGay Affirmative PsychotherapySummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 16. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Individuals With DisabilitiesIntroductionDefinition of Disability and the Americans With Disabilities ActDemographics of People With DisabilitiesSocioeconomic StatusMajor Categories of DisabilitiesModels of DisabilityDisability as a Multicultural IssuePrivilege and People With DisabilitiesMicroaggressions Toward People With DisabilitiesSpread: A Form of AbleismInteraction Strain and People With DisabilitiesIdentity Development and People With DisabilitiesExperiencing a Disability Identity After TraumaStrengths of People With DisabilitiesCounseling Approaches for Individuals With DisabilitiesPeople With Disabilities and Risk for AbuseEmpowermentFamily Counseling and People With DisabilitiesDisability Affirmative Therapy and Disability OrientationOlkin’s Model of Disability and Counseling ApproachSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 17. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Older AdultsIntroductionDemographics for Older AdultsWestern and Eastern Cultural Views on AgingAgeismMicroaggressions and the Older AdultMental Health Issues of the Older AdultDepression and Older AdultsAlzheimer’s Disease and Other Cognitive ImpairmentsSubstance Abuse and Older AdultsSexuality and the Older AdultThe Strengths-Based Therapy Model and the Older AdultPhases of Strengths-Based Therapy for Older AdultsAdditional Strengths Assessment IssuesA Final Note on Clinical Intervention and Treatment IssuesSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 18. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Immigrants and RefugeesIntroductionRefugee, Asylee, and Immigrant: Some Working DefinitionsMicroaggressions, Hate Crimes, and Discrimination Against Immigrants and RefugeesMental Health Issues of Immigrants and RefugeesMental Health Issues and Pre- and PostmigrationCompetency Assessment for Practitioners Working With Refugees and ImmigrantsCounseling and Therapy Models for Working With Refugees With PTSDCulturally Responsive Strengths-Based TherapySummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 19. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Multiracial PeopleIntroductionModels of Multiethnic/Multiracial Identity DevelopmentCompetencies for Counseling Multiracial IndividualsPsychotherapy With Multiethnic/Multiracial PeopleSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 20. Social Class, Social Justice, Intersectionality, and PrivilegeIntroductionSocial Class and Culturally Responsive CounselingThe Neuroscience of Poverty and Social ClassNeuroscience, Social Class, and EmpathyThe Social Justice Movement in CounselingIntersectionality, Social Class, and Social JusticeInternalized Oppression: Social Class and Ethnicity/RacePrivilege, Race, and Social ClassSummary of Multidimensional Privileges in a SocietySocial Class and Cultural Strengths: Antidote for Internalized Oppression and Stereotype ThreatSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingIndex

Dr. Elsie Jones-Smith  is a licensed psychologist, a certified school psychologist, and the President of the Strengths-Based Institute. She holds two Ph.D. degrees, one in clinical psychology from Michigan State University and the other in counselor education from the University at Buffalo.  She is a Fellow in two divisions of the American Psychological Association, Division 17, the Society of Counseling Psychology, and Division 45, the Society for the Psychological Study of Culture, Ethnicity, and Race. She is a Diplomate in counseling psychology (ABPP), a Fellow of the Academy of Counseling Psychology, and a prior Distinguished Visitor for the American Psychological Association.Dr. Jones-Smith has extensive experience in strengths-based therapy, graduate level teaching, program evaluation (Head Start, Title –Chapter 1), tests construction, and psychological consultation with schools. Her clinical orientation is strengths-based. She has currently expanded her clinical work to include cultural neuroscience.She is the author of six books, including the recently published Culturally Diverse Counseling: Theories and Practice (Sage, 2019). Second Edition of Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy: An Integrative Approach (2016) with Sage Publications (which presents a chapter on Neuroscience and describes it as the Fifth Force in psychology); Spotlighting the Strengths of Every Single Student: Why U.S. Schools Need a New, Strengths-Based Approach (2011, ABC-CLIO (2011); and Nurturing Nonviolent Children: A Guide for Parents, Educators, and Counselors (Praeger, 2008).Two of her articles (“The Strengths-Based Counseling Model” (which was nominated as the outstanding article in TCP for 2006) and “Ethnic Minorities: Life Stress, Social Support and Mental Health Issues” (1985) have been cited by The Counseling Psychologist as major contributions to the field of psychology. She has served on numerous editorial boards, including The Counseling Psychologist (TCP), The Journal of Counseling Psychology, and Counselor Education and Supervision.Dr. Jones-Smith has developed and published two theories in psychology: Strengths-Based Therapy and Ethnic Identity Development. In addition, she has developed a strengths-based educational approach for working with youth in schools and several instruments that measure ethnic identity development, students’ strengths, and teachers’ strengths.

"Understanding cultural perspectives of our clients is a continuous challenge. Elsie Jones-Smith succinctly presents a multicultural strength-based model to ease the unique challenges in working with diverse clients. Empower yourself to empower your clients."

• PrefaceAcknowledgmentsAbout the AuthorChapter 1. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy: The JourneyIntroduction: The Journey to Becoming a Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based TherapistThe Profound Influence of CultureOur Brains Are Culturally ConnectedAffirming Each Person’s ImportanceThe Integration of Culturally Responsive and Strengths-Based TherapyBrief History and Overview of the Multicultural MovementMastering the Multicultural Counseling CompetenciesEthical Issues and MulticulturalismThe Evidence-Based Movement in Multicultural CounselingBeginning the Cultural Competency JourneyLevels of Counselor Competency DevelopmentClinical Skill Development: Cultural Awareness and KnowledgeMajor Barriers to Culturally Competent CounselingNeuroscience, the Brain, and the Invisible Neural Barrier of Ethnic/Racial BiasSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 2. Cultural Meaning Systems, Cultural Trust, and Cultural HumilityIntroductionCultural PrinciplesThe Iceberg Concept of CultureEmic and Etic Perspectives on CultureCulture and NeuroscienceNeuroscience and Cultural DifferencesThe Globalization of CultureCulture and the Process of Identity Development: The Tripartite ModelThe Ethnic Self: Ethnicity as a SchemaResearch on the Positive Benefits of a Cultural IdentityDoes One Have to Be of the Same Cultural/Ethnic/Racial Background to Counsel Clients Effectively?Assimilation, Marginalization, Acculturation, and Acculturative StressCulturally Responsive Counseling: Reaching Across BarriersUnderstanding Clients’ Cultural StoriesCulturally Competent Clinical KnowledgeCulturally Responsive Knowledge Skills for the Initial InterviewCultural Trust: A Critical Issue in Culturally Diverse CounselingCultural Empathy and Cultural CompetenceLevels of Culturally Competent Clinical RespondingThe Culturally Competent Skill of Counselor Cultural HumilityToward a Model for Evaluating Culturally Competent Clinical Skill Development of CounselorsSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 3. Neuroscience, Multiple Cultural Identities, and Cultural StrengthsIntroductionNeuroscience, CACREP Standards, and Major Counseling AssociationsFoundational Concepts in Neuroscience for CounselorsThe BrainMapping the Cultural Architecture of the BrainCultural Identity Formation and NeuroscienceBrain Regions and Cultural IdentitySome Important Findings in Cultural NeuroscienceCultural Identity and the Cultural Formulation Interview for the DSM-5The Negativity Bias of the Brain: Findings in NeuroscienceIs the Brain Hardwired to See the Glass Half Empty or Half Full?Mental Health From a Neuroscientific PerspectiveNeuroimaging Techniques and the BrainNeuroscience: Psychotherapy Changes Your BrainThe Therapeutic Relationship From a Neuroscientific PerspectiveNeuroscience and the Culturally Responsive CounselorMirror Neurons and CounselorsWhat Happens When a Counselor Focuses on a Client’s Negative Life Events?Neuroscience and Multiple Cultural IdentitiesWhat Is a Multicultural Identity?The Need for Clinicians to Adopt a Multicultural IdentitySummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 4. Strengths-Based Development, Culture, and Clinical PracticeIntroductionCulture, the Brain, and Strengths DevelopmentThe Neurobiology of Human Strengths DevelopmentStrengths and the Brain’s Pruning ProcessRelational Components of Strengths DevelopmentAttachment Theory and Strengths DevelopmentBowlby’s Theory of Attachment: The Foundation for Understanding Individual Strengths DevelopmentSignificance of Attachment Relationships and Strengths DevelopmentStrengths Development and the Importance of a Trusted RelationshipStrengths Development and AttentionAttachment Patterns Across CulturesSignificance of Cultural Attachment, Migration, and AcculturationStrengths Development, the Narrative Process, and the MindStrengths as Dialogic Conversations With the SelfWestern and Eastern Views on Human Strengths: The Chinese PerspectiveHow Do I Make Culturally Responsive Counseling Strengths-Based?The Philosophy of Strengths-Based TherapyCultural MindsetsCulturally Responsive Strengths-Based PracticeSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 5. The Strengths-Based Therapy Model and Culturally Responsive CounselingIntroductionThe Revised Strengths-Based Therapy ModelStrengths-Based Therapy TechniquesSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 6 Culturally Responsive Assessment and the Cultural Formulation InterviewIntroductionGeneral Assessment Principles in Counseling and PsychotherapyClinical Issues in Conducting a Qualitative, Culturally Responsive AssessmentThe DSM-5 and the Cultural Formulation InterviewThe Four Domains of the Cultural Formulation InterviewCultural Genogram: An Assessment ToolThe Strengths-Based Therapy Model’s Assessment ProcessCreating a Strengths GenogramAssess the Client’s Potential for Self-Harm and Risk to OthersSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 7. Culturally Responsive Case Conceptualization and Treatment PlanningIntroductionCase Conceptualization: Some General ElementsCulturally Responsive Case ConceptualizationCase Conceptualization and the Cultural Formulation InterviewStrengths-Based Case ConceptualizationStrengths-Based Treatment PlansCulturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy TechniquesSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 8. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for African AmericansIntroductionThe African American Population: Some Basic DemographicsHistorical and Psychosocial Issues for Blacks: Oppression, Discrimination, and the Legacy of SlaveryAfrican Americans and Cultural ValuesCultural Strengths of African AmericansNTU: An Afrocentric Model for Counseling African AmericansSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 9. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for American Indians and Alaska NativesIntroductionDefining Group MembershipDemographic and Population StatisticsWho Is an “Authentic” or “Real Indian”?Socioeconomic StatusTheory of Historical Trauma Among American IndiansEthnic/Racial Stereotypes, Racism, and MicroaggressionsWorldviewFamily Structure: The Tribe as FamilyCultural IdentityCultural ValuesCultural StrengthsHealing: The Circle and Medicine Wheel in Indian LifeCounseling Applications of the Circle and Medicine WheelMental Health ChallengesCounseling Approaches for American Indians and Alaska NativesSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 10. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific IslandersIntroductionDemographic and Population StatisticsHistorical Changes in the Asian American ProfileSocioeconomic Status of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders: 2013Asian Americans as the “Model Ethnic Minority”: Myth or Reality?Ethnic/Racial Stereotypes, Racism, and MicroaggressionsCultural Issues of Asian Americans and Pacific IslandersAsian American and Pacific Islander Communication: High-Context CultureCultural Identity of Asian Americans: No One Identity Model for AllCultural Strengths and Contributions of Asian AmericansAcculturation and Cultural Issues Affecting Mental HealthCultural Factors in Counseling Asian AmericansSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 11. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Hispanic and Latino/a AmericansIntroductionHispanic/Latino American Cultural ValuesAcculturation Conflicts for Hispanic/Latino AmericansCultural Identity of Hispanics and LatinosHispanic/Latino Cultural StrengthsHispanic/Latino Physical and Mental Health IssuesCounseling Approaches for Working With Hispanic/Latino ClientsSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 12. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Arab and Muslim AmericansIntroductionMicroaggressions Against Arab and Muslim AmericansCultural Values and Worldview of Arabs and MuslimsAcculturation: Patterns and ConflictsMental Health Issues for Arab and Muslim AmericansCounseling Arab and Muslim AmericansCounseling Arab and Muslim Americans: Some RecommendationsSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 13. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for White Americans of European AncestryIntroductionSocioeconomic Status of White AmericansEthnic Group Saliency for White AmericansThe White American WorldviewModels of White Racial Identity DevelopmentThe Hardiman White Racial Identity ModelThe Helms Model of White Identity DevelopmentCounseling White Americans of European AncestrySummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 14. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for WomenIntroductionDemographics of American WomenSocioeconomic Status of U.S. WomenMicroaggressions Against Women and Gender InequalityThe Mental Health Issues of WomenCounseling Approaches for Women: Feminist TherapyDissatisfaction With Existing Psychological TheoriesDissatisfaction With Diagnostic Categories and Mother BlamingTraditional Theories Versus Feminist Therapies: Six CharacteristicsKey Concepts of Feminist TherapyGender Role Stereotyping Across CulturesThe Social Construction of GenderGender and Power DifferentialsFeminist Therapy ApproachesGoals of Feminist TherapyThe Role of Men in Feminist TherapyTechniques of Feminist TherapyFeminist Therapy and Multicultural TherapyIntegration of Feminist Therapy With Other ApproachesSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 15. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for LGBTQ IndividualsIntroductionDemographic and LGBTQ Population DataSocioeconomic StatusDiscrimination and the Gay Rights MovementLGBTQ Identity DevelopmentTransgender Identity DevelopmentComing Out and Gender Identity Development for Gays, Lesbians, and BisexualsComing Out for People of Color: A “Tricultural Experience”LGBTQ Youth and SchoolsLGBTQ Families: Some FactsMental Health Issues and the LGBTQ CommunityTop 10 Physical and Mental Health Concerns of LGBTQ College StudentsStrengths of LGBTQ PopulationsCounseling Members of the LGBTQ CommunityThe Therapeutic Process in Gay and Lesbian PsychotherapyRole of the Therapist in Working With LGBTQ ClientsGay Affirmative PsychotherapySummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 16. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Individuals With DisabilitiesIntroductionDefinition of Disability and the Americans With Disabilities ActDemographics of People With DisabilitiesSocioeconomic StatusMajor Categories of DisabilitiesModels of DisabilityDisability as a Multicultural IssuePrivilege and People With DisabilitiesMicroaggressions Toward People With DisabilitiesSpread: A Form of AbleismInteraction Strain and People With DisabilitiesIdentity Development and People With DisabilitiesExperiencing a Disability Identity After TraumaStrengths of People With DisabilitiesCounseling Approaches for Individuals With DisabilitiesPeople With Disabilities and Risk for AbuseEmpowermentFamily Counseling and People With DisabilitiesDisability Affirmative Therapy and Disability OrientationOlkin’s Model of Disability and Counseling ApproachSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 17. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Older AdultsIntroductionDemographics for Older AdultsWestern and Eastern Cultural Views on AgingAgeismMicroaggressions and the Older AdultMental Health Issues of the Older AdultDepression and Older AdultsAlzheimer’s Disease and Other Cognitive ImpairmentsSubstance Abuse and Older AdultsSexuality and the Older AdultThe Strengths-Based Therapy Model and the Older AdultPhases of Strengths-Based Therapy for Older AdultsAdditional Strengths Assessment IssuesA Final Note on Clinical Intervention and Treatment IssuesSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 18. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Immigrants and RefugeesIntroductionRefugee, Asylee, and Immigrant: Some Working DefinitionsMicroaggressions, Hate Crimes, and Discrimination Against Immigrants and RefugeesMental Health Issues of Immigrants and RefugeesMental Health Issues and Pre- and PostmigrationCompetency Assessment for Practitioners Working With Refugees and ImmigrantsCounseling and Therapy Models for Working With Refugees With PTSDCulturally Responsive Strengths-Based TherapySummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 19. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Multiracial PeopleIntroductionModels of Multiethnic/Multiracial Identity DevelopmentCompetencies for Counseling Multiracial IndividualsPsychotherapy With Multiethnic/Multiracial PeopleSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 20. Social Class, Social Justice, Intersectionality, and PrivilegeIntroductionSocial Class and Culturally Responsive CounselingThe Neuroscience of Poverty and Social ClassNeuroscience, Social Class, and EmpathyThe Social Justice Movement in CounselingIntersectionality, Social Class, and Social JusticeInternalized Oppression: Social Class and Ethnicity/RacePrivilege, Race, and Social ClassSummary of Multidimensional Privileges in a SocietySocial Class and Cultural Strengths: Antidote for Internalized Oppression and Stereotype ThreatSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingIndex

Dr. Elsie Jones-Smith  is a licensed psychologist, a certified school psychologist, and the President of the Strengths-Based Institute. She holds two Ph.D. degrees, one in clinical psychology from Michigan State University and the other in counselor education from the University at Buffalo.  She is a Fellow in two divisions of the American Psychological Association, Division 17, the Society of Counseling Psychology, and Division 45, the Society for the Psychological Study of Culture, Ethnicity, and Race. She is a Diplomate in counseling psychology (ABPP), a Fellow of the Academy of Counseling Psychology, and a prior Distinguished Visitor for the American Psychological Association.Dr. Jones-Smith has extensive experience in strengths-based therapy, graduate level teaching, program evaluation (Head Start, Title –Chapter 1), tests construction, and psychological consultation with schools. Her clinical orientation is strengths-based. She has currently expanded her clinical work to include cultural neuroscience.She is the author of six books, including the recently published Culturally Diverse Counseling: Theories and Practice (Sage, 2019). Second Edition of Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy: An Integrative Approach (2016) with Sage Publications (which presents a chapter on Neuroscience and describes it as the Fifth Force in psychology); Spotlighting the Strengths of Every Single Student: Why U.S. Schools Need a New, Strengths-Based Approach (2011, ABC-CLIO (2011); and Nurturing Nonviolent Children: A Guide for Parents, Educators, and Counselors (Praeger, 2008).Two of her articles (“The Strengths-Based Counseling Model” (which was nominated as the outstanding article in TCP for 2006) and “Ethnic Minorities: Life Stress, Social Support and Mental Health Issues” (1985) have been cited by The Counseling Psychologist as major contributions to the field of psychology. She has served on numerous editorial boards, including The Counseling Psychologist (TCP), The Journal of Counseling Psychology, and Counselor Education and Supervision.Dr. Jones-Smith has developed and published two theories in psychology: Strengths-Based Therapy and Ethnic Identity Development. In addition, she has developed a strengths-based educational approach for working with youth in schools and several instruments that measure ethnic identity development, students’ strengths, and teachers’ strengths.

"Understanding cultural perspectives of our clients is a continuous challenge. Elsie Jones-Smith succinctly presents a multicultural strength-based model to ease the unique challenges in working with diverse clients. Empower yourself to empower your clients."

• PrefaceAcknowledgmentsAbout the AuthorChapter 1. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy: The JourneyIntroduction: The Journey to Becoming a Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based TherapistThe Profound Influence of CultureOur Brains Are Culturally ConnectedAffirming Each Person’s ImportanceThe Integration of Culturally Responsive and Strengths-Based TherapyBrief History and Overview of the Multicultural MovementMastering the Multicultural Counseling CompetenciesEthical Issues and MulticulturalismThe Evidence-Based Movement in Multicultural CounselingBeginning the Cultural Competency JourneyLevels of Counselor Competency DevelopmentClinical Skill Development: Cultural Awareness and KnowledgeMajor Barriers to Culturally Competent CounselingNeuroscience, the Brain, and the Invisible Neural Barrier of Ethnic/Racial BiasSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 2. Cultural Meaning Systems, Cultural Trust, and Cultural HumilityIntroductionCultural PrinciplesThe Iceberg Concept of CultureEmic and Etic Perspectives on CultureCulture and NeuroscienceNeuroscience and Cultural DifferencesThe Globalization of CultureCulture and the Process of Identity Development: The Tripartite ModelThe Ethnic Self: Ethnicity as a SchemaResearch on the Positive Benefits of a Cultural IdentityDoes One Have to Be of the Same Cultural/Ethnic/Racial Background to Counsel Clients Effectively?Assimilation, Marginalization, Acculturation, and Acculturative StressCulturally Responsive Counseling: Reaching Across BarriersUnderstanding Clients’ Cultural StoriesCulturally Competent Clinical KnowledgeCulturally Responsive Knowledge Skills for the Initial InterviewCultural Trust: A Critical Issue in Culturally Diverse CounselingCultural Empathy and Cultural CompetenceLevels of Culturally Competent Clinical RespondingThe Culturally Competent Skill of Counselor Cultural HumilityToward a Model for Evaluating Culturally Competent Clinical Skill Development of CounselorsSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 3. Neuroscience, Multiple Cultural Identities, and Cultural StrengthsIntroductionNeuroscience, CACREP Standards, and Major Counseling AssociationsFoundational Concepts in Neuroscience for CounselorsThe BrainMapping the Cultural Architecture of the BrainCultural Identity Formation and NeuroscienceBrain Regions and Cultural IdentitySome Important Findings in Cultural NeuroscienceCultural Identity and the Cultural Formulation Interview for the DSM-5The Negativity Bias of the Brain: Findings in NeuroscienceIs the Brain Hardwired to See the Glass Half Empty or Half Full?Mental Health From a Neuroscientific PerspectiveNeuroimaging Techniques and the BrainNeuroscience: Psychotherapy Changes Your BrainThe Therapeutic Relationship From a Neuroscientific PerspectiveNeuroscience and the Culturally Responsive CounselorMirror Neurons and CounselorsWhat Happens When a Counselor Focuses on a Client’s Negative Life Events?Neuroscience and Multiple Cultural IdentitiesWhat Is a Multicultural Identity?The Need for Clinicians to Adopt a Multicultural IdentitySummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 4. Strengths-Based Development, Culture, and Clinical PracticeIntroductionCulture, the Brain, and Strengths DevelopmentThe Neurobiology of Human Strengths DevelopmentStrengths and the Brain’s Pruning ProcessRelational Components of Strengths DevelopmentAttachment Theory and Strengths DevelopmentBowlby’s Theory of Attachment: The Foundation for Understanding Individual Strengths DevelopmentSignificance of Attachment Relationships and Strengths DevelopmentStrengths Development and the Importance of a Trusted RelationshipStrengths Development and AttentionAttachment Patterns Across CulturesSignificance of Cultural Attachment, Migration, and AcculturationStrengths Development, the Narrative Process, and the MindStrengths as Dialogic Conversations With the SelfWestern and Eastern Views on Human Strengths: The Chinese PerspectiveHow Do I Make Culturally Responsive Counseling Strengths-Based?The Philosophy of Strengths-Based TherapyCultural MindsetsCulturally Responsive Strengths-Based PracticeSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 5. The Strengths-Based Therapy Model and Culturally Responsive CounselingIntroductionThe Revised Strengths-Based Therapy ModelStrengths-Based Therapy TechniquesSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 6 Culturally Responsive Assessment and the Cultural Formulation InterviewIntroductionGeneral Assessment Principles in Counseling and PsychotherapyClinical Issues in Conducting a Qualitative, Culturally Responsive AssessmentThe DSM-5 and the Cultural Formulation InterviewThe Four Domains of the Cultural Formulation InterviewCultural Genogram: An Assessment ToolThe Strengths-Based Therapy Model’s Assessment ProcessCreating a Strengths GenogramAssess the Client’s Potential for Self-Harm and Risk to OthersSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 7. Culturally Responsive Case Conceptualization and Treatment PlanningIntroductionCase Conceptualization: Some General ElementsCulturally Responsive Case ConceptualizationCase Conceptualization and the Cultural Formulation InterviewStrengths-Based Case ConceptualizationStrengths-Based Treatment PlansCulturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy TechniquesSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 8. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for African AmericansIntroductionThe African American Population: Some Basic DemographicsHistorical and Psychosocial Issues for Blacks: Oppression, Discrimination, and the Legacy of SlaveryAfrican Americans and Cultural ValuesCultural Strengths of African AmericansNTU: An Afrocentric Model for Counseling African AmericansSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 9. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for American Indians and Alaska NativesIntroductionDefining Group MembershipDemographic and Population StatisticsWho Is an “Authentic” or “Real Indian”?Socioeconomic StatusTheory of Historical Trauma Among American IndiansEthnic/Racial Stereotypes, Racism, and MicroaggressionsWorldviewFamily Structure: The Tribe as FamilyCultural IdentityCultural ValuesCultural StrengthsHealing: The Circle and Medicine Wheel in Indian LifeCounseling Applications of the Circle and Medicine WheelMental Health ChallengesCounseling Approaches for American Indians and Alaska NativesSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 10. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific IslandersIntroductionDemographic and Population StatisticsHistorical Changes in the Asian American ProfileSocioeconomic Status of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders: 2013Asian Americans as the “Model Ethnic Minority”: Myth or Reality?Ethnic/Racial Stereotypes, Racism, and MicroaggressionsCultural Issues of Asian Americans and Pacific IslandersAsian American and Pacific Islander Communication: High-Context CultureCultural Identity of Asian Americans: No One Identity Model for AllCultural Strengths and Contributions of Asian AmericansAcculturation and Cultural Issues Affecting Mental HealthCultural Factors in Counseling Asian AmericansSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 11. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Hispanic and Latino/a AmericansIntroductionHispanic/Latino American Cultural ValuesAcculturation Conflicts for Hispanic/Latino AmericansCultural Identity of Hispanics and LatinosHispanic/Latino Cultural StrengthsHispanic/Latino Physical and Mental Health IssuesCounseling Approaches for Working With Hispanic/Latino ClientsSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 12. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Arab and Muslim AmericansIntroductionMicroaggressions Against Arab and Muslim AmericansCultural Values and Worldview of Arabs and MuslimsAcculturation: Patterns and ConflictsMental Health Issues for Arab and Muslim AmericansCounseling Arab and Muslim AmericansCounseling Arab and Muslim Americans: Some RecommendationsSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 13. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for White Americans of European AncestryIntroductionSocioeconomic Status of White AmericansEthnic Group Saliency for White AmericansThe White American WorldviewModels of White Racial Identity DevelopmentThe Hardiman White Racial Identity ModelThe Helms Model of White Identity DevelopmentCounseling White Americans of European AncestrySummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 14. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for WomenIntroductionDemographics of American WomenSocioeconomic Status of U.S. WomenMicroaggressions Against Women and Gender InequalityThe Mental Health Issues of WomenCounseling Approaches for Women: Feminist TherapyDissatisfaction With Existing Psychological TheoriesDissatisfaction With Diagnostic Categories and Mother BlamingTraditional Theories Versus Feminist Therapies: Six CharacteristicsKey Concepts of Feminist TherapyGender Role Stereotyping Across CulturesThe Social Construction of GenderGender and Power DifferentialsFeminist Therapy ApproachesGoals of Feminist TherapyThe Role of Men in Feminist TherapyTechniques of Feminist TherapyFeminist Therapy and Multicultural TherapyIntegration of Feminist Therapy With Other ApproachesSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 15. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for LGBTQ IndividualsIntroductionDemographic and LGBTQ Population DataSocioeconomic StatusDiscrimination and the Gay Rights MovementLGBTQ Identity DevelopmentTransgender Identity DevelopmentComing Out and Gender Identity Development for Gays, Lesbians, and BisexualsComing Out for People of Color: A “Tricultural Experience”LGBTQ Youth and SchoolsLGBTQ Families: Some FactsMental Health Issues and the LGBTQ CommunityTop 10 Physical and Mental Health Concerns of LGBTQ College StudentsStrengths of LGBTQ PopulationsCounseling Members of the LGBTQ CommunityThe Therapeutic Process in Gay and Lesbian PsychotherapyRole of the Therapist in Working With LGBTQ ClientsGay Affirmative PsychotherapySummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 16. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Individuals With DisabilitiesIntroductionDefinition of Disability and the Americans With Disabilities ActDemographics of People With DisabilitiesSocioeconomic StatusMajor Categories of DisabilitiesModels of DisabilityDisability as a Multicultural IssuePrivilege and People With DisabilitiesMicroaggressions Toward People With DisabilitiesSpread: A Form of AbleismInteraction Strain and People With DisabilitiesIdentity Development and People With DisabilitiesExperiencing a Disability Identity After TraumaStrengths of People With DisabilitiesCounseling Approaches for Individuals With DisabilitiesPeople With Disabilities and Risk for AbuseEmpowermentFamily Counseling and People With DisabilitiesDisability Affirmative Therapy and Disability OrientationOlkin’s Model of Disability and Counseling ApproachSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 17. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Older AdultsIntroductionDemographics for Older AdultsWestern and Eastern Cultural Views on AgingAgeismMicroaggressions and the Older AdultMental Health Issues of the Older AdultDepression and Older AdultsAlzheimer’s Disease and Other Cognitive ImpairmentsSubstance Abuse and Older AdultsSexuality and the Older AdultThe Strengths-Based Therapy Model and the Older AdultPhases of Strengths-Based Therapy for Older AdultsAdditional Strengths Assessment IssuesA Final Note on Clinical Intervention and Treatment IssuesSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 18. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Immigrants and RefugeesIntroductionRefugee, Asylee, and Immigrant: Some Working DefinitionsMicroaggressions, Hate Crimes, and Discrimination Against Immigrants and RefugeesMental Health Issues of Immigrants and RefugeesMental Health Issues and Pre- and PostmigrationCompetency Assessment for Practitioners Working With Refugees and ImmigrantsCounseling and Therapy Models for Working With Refugees With PTSDCulturally Responsive Strengths-Based TherapySummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 19. Culturally Responsive Strengths-Based Therapy for Multiracial PeopleIntroductionModels of Multiethnic/Multiracial Identity DevelopmentCompetencies for Counseling Multiracial IndividualsPsychotherapy With Multiethnic/Multiracial PeopleSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingChapter 20. Social Class, Social Justice, Intersectionality, and PrivilegeIntroductionSocial Class and Culturally Responsive CounselingThe Neuroscience of Poverty and Social ClassNeuroscience, Social Class, and EmpathyThe Social Justice Movement in CounselingIntersectionality, Social Class, and Social JusticeInternalized Oppression: Social Class and Ethnicity/RacePrivilege, Race, and Social ClassSummary of Multidimensional Privileges in a SocietySocial Class and Cultural Strengths: Antidote for Internalized Oppression and Stereotype ThreatSummary of Key PointsDiscussion QuestionsKey TermsReferences and Suggested ReadingIndex