case study of a female patient with anxiety disorder and depression: psychotherapy within a lebanese cultural framework. international case studies in mental health
Author: Brigitte Khoury
Source:
International Case Studies in Mental Health
This chapter describes the case study of a Lebanese woman who was being evaluated for anxiety, depression and medication treatment. The psychiatrist wanted the client to receive psychotherapy treatment. This case illustrates the role of the family in the Arab culture, and though often it is a great source of support, it can also be a source of sorrow. There are many ways Lebanese families insert their cultural rights to get involved and make it known to the therapist that they want to contribute to the treatment. I also inform them that I allow family members to come with the patient to one of the sessions to discuss their concern. This is a good way. to maintain confidentiality while also engage the family in the treatment. Although it is quite challenging to deal with the family in addition to the patient, the impact of the context on individuals' well-being should not be overlooked in a culture where individuals do not exist independently of others (Dwairy, 2006; Harb & Smith, 2008). Involving the family in the patient's treatment contributes to the effectiveness of therapy in many ways. It may increase compliance and emotional support or help identify culturally appropriate ways to resolve intrafamilial conflicts.