1st Assignment

MACP Program, Faculty of Behavioural Sciences, Yorkville University
PSYC 6143 – Counselling Methodologies: Humanist/Psychodynamic Modalities
One of the modern psychodynamic theories, known as object relations theory, is a branch
of psychodynamic theory that centers on the internalized relationships and representations of
relationships that individuals develop with themselves and others. Object relations theory
emphasizes internal objects, which are mental representations of the self and others based on
early experiences. These internal objects can be positive, like a caring mother, or negative, like
an abusive caregiver, influencing self-esteem and relationship dynamics. These internalized
objects shape perceptions and expectations of others, leading to behavioral patterns reflecting
these internalized objects. The therapeutic relationship is crucial in object relations theory,
providing a space to explore and resolve internalized objects, address unresolved conflicts, and
develop healthier interpersonal relationships (Flanagan, 2008). One criticism of object relations
theory is its perceived overemphasis on early experiences and internal dynamics, which could
lead to a neglect of external factors like social context and cultural norms in shaping
development and relationships. Critics also contend that the theory's focus on internalized objects
might oversimplify the intricate nature of human relationships and individual experiences.
Immigrant, indigenous, and transgender communities often face distinct psychological
challenges as their identities intersect with broader societal norms and systems. For instance,
immigrants may experience conflicts related to their cultural identity, navigating a balance
between their heritage and the dominant culture of their new environment. Similarly, as noted by
Baskin (2005), Indigenous peoples frequently confront systemic oppression, marginalization, and
intergenerational trauma stemming from historical colonization. These factors can contribute to
various psychological issues, including but not limited to, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety,
and substance abuse. Furthermore, transgender individuals may encounter barriers in affirming
their gender identity, particularly within societal contexts that may not acknowledge or
understand their identity (Bhugra & Becker, 2005). The loss of traditional practices and cultural
disconnection can also exacerbate emotional challenges. Discrimination and stigma against
sexual minorities are pervasive, significantly impacting mental health. Research by Lambe and
O'Shaughnessy (2017) demonstrated a strong association between perceived discrimination,
internalized negative beliefs about bisexuality, lower self-esteem, and higher levels of
depression, with internalized negative beliefs emerging as a particularly potent predictor.
Addressing discrimination and stigma against sexual minorities necessitates a multifaceted
approach encompassing legal protections, education, and advocacy. In therapeutic settings,
establishing a safe and affirming environment is paramount for sexual minorities to explore their
identities, address the impacts of discrimination and stigma, and cultivate effective coping
strategies (Slay-Westbrook, 2017).
In applying contemporary psychodynamic theory to diverse populations, particularly
immigrants or refugees, a nuanced understanding of psychodynamic principles and their
adaptation to various cultural contexts is essential. Central to this approach is the concept of
transference, wherein individuals project feelings and attitudes from past relationships onto the
therapist. This concept becomes particularly salient in working with immigrants or refugees,
whose prior experiences may significantly shape their perceptions and interactions within
therapy (Maniacci & Sackett-Maniacci, 2019). Immigrants often experience considerable stress
as they navigate the complexities of adapting to a new culture while endeavoring to preserve
aspects of their original cultural identity, leading to feelings of confusion, identity conflict, and
isolation (Oh, Koeske & Sales, 2002). Additionally, as noted by Esses (2021), immigrants
frequently encounter discrimination and prejudice based on their ethnicity, nationality, or
immigration status, resulting in experiences of exclusion, diminished self-worth, and
psychological distress. It is imperative in counseling to acknowledge that immigrant clients
originate from cultures with distinct norms, values, and communication styles. Furthermore,
immigrant families frequently grapple with challenges arising from the acculturation process and
cultural disparities, significantly impacting family dynamics and relationships (Liu et al., 2017).
Consequently, these challenges often manifest as conflicts and stress within the family unit. The
complexities of the challenges faced by immigrants underscore the necessity for mental health
practitioners to approach them with cultural sensitivity. As highlighted by Slay-Westbrook
(2017), providing support and guidance to help immigrants navigate these challenges can
significantly enhance their mental health and overall quality of life.
Therapists must also remain attuned to the cultural norms and values of the client's
background, as these factors can influence the expression and understanding of symptoms. For
instance, in some cultures, there may be a stigma associated with mental health issues, impacting
the client's willingness to seek help or discuss their symptoms openly. In conclusion, a
comprehensive understanding of the social, political, and cultural factors shaping the
psychological experiences of immigrants and refugees underscores the importance of culturally
informed psychoanalytic perspectives in therapy (Tummala-Narra, 2019).
Reference
Baskin, C. (2006). Systemic oppression, violence, and healing in Aboriginal families and
communities. Cruel but not unusual: Violence in Canadian families, 15-48.

Bhugra, D., & Becker, M. A. (2005). Migration, cultural bereavement and cultural
identity. World psychiatry, 4(1), 18.
Esses, V. M. (2021). Prejudice and discrimination toward immigrants. Annual Review of
Psychology, 72, 503-531.
Flanagan, L. M. (2008). Object relations theory. Inside out and outside in: Psychodynamic
clinical theory and psychopathology in contemporary multicultural contexts, 2, 121-160.
Lambe, J., Cerezo, A., & O'Shaughnessy, T. (2017). Minority stress, community involvement,
and mental health among bisexual women. Psychology of sexual orientation and gender
diversity, 4(2), 218.
Liu, J., Dong, X., Nguyen, D., & Lai, D. W. (2017). Family relationships and depressive
symptoms among Chinese older immigrants in the United States. Journals of
Gerontology Series A: Biomedical Sciences and Medical Sciences, 72(suppl_1), S113-
S118.
Maniacci, M. & Sackett-Maniacci, L. (2019). Adlerian Psychotherapy. In D. Wedding & R. J.
Corsini (Eds.), Current psychotherapies (11th ed. pp. 59-100). Boston, MA: Cengage.
Oh, Y., Koeske, G. F., & Sales, E. (2002). Acculturation, stress, and depressive symptoms among
Korean immigrants in the United States. The Journal of social psychology, 142(4), 511-
526.
Slay-Westbrook, S. (2017) Respect-Focused Therapy: Honoring clients through the therapeutic
relationship and process. Routledge.
Tummala-Narra, P. (2019). Working with immigrants and refugees in psychodynamic
psychotherapy. In Contemporary Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (pp. 281-294).
Academic Press.

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MACP Program, Faculty of Behavioural Sciences, Yorkville University

PSYC 6143 – Counselling Methodologies: Humanist/Psychodynamic Modalities

of psychodynamic theory that centers on the internalized relationships and representations of

an abusive caregiver, influencing self-esteem and relationship dynamics. These internalized

Immigrant, indigenous, and transgender communities often face distinct psychological

depression, with internalized negative beliefs emerging as a particularly potent predictor.

Addressing discrimination and stigma against sexual minorities necessitates a multifaceted

approach encompassing legal protections, education, and advocacy. In therapeutic settings,

strategies (Slay-Westbrook, 2017).

In applying contemporary psychodynamic theory to diverse populations, particularly

immigrants or refugees, a nuanced understanding of psychodynamic principles and their

frequently encounter discrimination and prejudice based on their ethnicity, nationality, or

immigration status, resulting in experiences of exclusion, diminished self-worth, and

psychological distress. It is imperative in counseling to acknowledge that immigrant clients

practitioners to approach them with cultural sensitivity. As highlighted by Slay-Westbrook

significantly enhance their mental health and overall quality of life.

psychological experiences of immigrants and refugees underscores the importance of culturally

informed psychoanalytic perspectives in therapy (Tummala-Narra, 2019).

communities. Cruel but not unusual: Violence in Canadian families, 15-48.

identity. World psychiatry, 4(1), 18.

Esses, V. M. (2021). Prejudice and discrimination toward immigrants. Annual Review of

Psychology, 72, 503-531.

clinical theory and psychopathology in contemporary multicultural contexts, 2, 121-160.

diversity, 4(2), 218.

symptoms among Chinese older immigrants in the United States. Journals of

Gerontology Series A: Biomedical Sciences and Medical Sciences, 72(suppl_1), S113-

Maniacci, M. & Sackett-Maniacci, L. (2019). Adlerian Psychotherapy. In D. Wedding & R. J.

Slay-Westbrook, S. (2017) Respect-Focused Therapy: Honoring clients through the therapeutic

relationship and process. Routledge.

Tummala-Narra, P. (2019). Working with immigrants and refugees in psychodynamic

psychotherapy. In Contemporary Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (pp. 281-294).

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