The experiences of non-indigenous ethnic minority psychotherapists residing and practicing in Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

The bicultural nation that is Aotearoa New Zealand is now a multi-ethnic society, home to many non-indigenous ethnic minority communities. This study explored the perceptions and experiences of four self-identifying non-indigenous ethnic minority psychotherapists living in this country. Specifically, it answers the question: “What are the predominant themes that can be identified in the accounts of non-Māori ethnic minority psychotherapists, residing and practicing within the bicultural context of Aotearoa New Zealand?” Semi-structured interviews with participants explored their lived everyday experiences in both personal and professional spheres. Data were analysed using thematic analysis and yielded three themes: (1) “Acculturation to mainstream” captures the personal challenges participants encountered as immigrants in relocating and adapting to mainstream Aotearoa New Zealand culture; (2) “Encountering Indigenous culture” describes participants’ experiences of coming into contact with indigenous Māori culture, and ensuing perceptions and understandings; (3) “Relating to biculturalism” describes how the participants understand and make meaning of biculturalism in Aotearoa New Zealand. Understanding these participants’ experiences can help non-indigenous ethnic minority psychotherapists become better informed and politically aware, and may empower them to negotiate a more meaningful position in a bicultural nation.