Tree of Life with Older Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Muslim Women in the Community Setting: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Although Australia is one of the fastest growing multicultural societies in the world, there is a scarcity of psychological interventions to support culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) groups settled in the country. A qualitative case study methodology was used to explore the benefits, feasibility, and acceptability of the Tree of Life, a Narrative Therapy approach to group work when trialed in a CALD community setting. Nine older Muslim women from diverse backgrounds voluntarily participated in a manualized program over six weeks, at a non-government community center for Muslim women. A case study approach was adopted. Participants provided feedback after each session. They also participated in a focus group at the completion of the program to provide information about their experiences and perceptions of the program. Facilitators recorded their observations. Analysis highlighted the therapeutic benefits of the Tree of Life (TOL) program and found it to be feasible and acceptable for use in community settings. The findings have implications for community organizations and stakeholders who work with older Muslim women. Future research and practice would benefit from further exploration of the TOL program and Narrative Therapies with older Muslim and CALD communities.