ABSTRACT
This chapter explains that counsellors need to understand Asian American people from historical, cultural, and lifespan perspectives. Many Asian Americans have experienced considerable hardships in the United States. Given Asian Americans' diversity, it is essential that counsellors consider languages, religions, and individual differences. As with all cultures, it is imperative that counsellors learn about differences between younger-generation and older-generation Asian Americans. The chapter explores how counsellors can provide culturally appropriate individual and family therapy to Asian American clients. The Asian American family's sense of cohesiveness and their loyalty to the family welfare should not rule out family therapy altogether. Asian American students frequently have difficulty admitting emotional problems because of the shame it might bring to their families. Asian American clients often do not understand family therapy; therefore, the first session should be planned so that the client and the family will want to return for future sessions. The chapter summarizes some Sue's suggestions and implications for counselling Asian Americans.
