Mindfulness Interventions for Latinx Immigrant Couples: Contextual and Cultural Considerations

Abstract

As Latinx are the largest minority and immigrant population in the United States, therapists are increasingly likely to work with this population. The high rates of psychological distress that Latinx face in response to ethnic-based discrimination, anti-immigrant sentiment, and/or acculturation-related stressors necessitate contextually and culturally appropriate treatment modalities. Emerging evidence suggests mindfulness practices can improve individual and relational well-being and reduce distress. Although these practices have not yet been applied to work with Latinx and other ethnic-minority populations, we suggest the present-time orientation and collectivist values inherent to mindfulness pair well with Latinx culture. This paper reviews the relevant literature on mindfulness practices and discusses the utility of mindfulness for use with Latinx couples, calling on cultural similarities and attending to contextual factors. Finally, a case example paired with interventions for therapists to adapt to their own practice is used to introduce relational mindfulness interventions and promote relational wellbeing, couple resilience, cultural pride, and connection.

Keywords:

• Latinx couples
• mindfulness practices
• couple therapy
• relational mindfulness
• context
• Latinx culture

Notes

1 In particular, the therapist in this case study recommended the application Insight Timer: a worldwide, mindfulness social network that provides meditations of varying lengths and topics, available in Spanish and free-of-charge. It also offers many couple meditation practices.