ABSTRACT
Our intent with this volume was to apply a culturally affirmative model to the theory and practice of providing psychotherapy with deaf persons. The previously dominant medical-pathological model of deafness—a framework that purports to help deaf people cope with their disability and adjust to the dominant society—in fact, from our perspective, has contributed to the oppression of the Deaf community. Culturally affirmative psychotherapy corrects that oppression. It is a paradigm shift—a way of thinking—that includes therapist self-awareness, knowledge of Deaf culture, and culturally-syntonic intervention skills. Culturally affirmative psychotherapy contributes to the growing movement for equality and reciprocity between Deaf and hearing people. As such, it is a stance of profound respect.
