Narrative Therapy with Spanish Speakers: Creative Bilingual Strategies for Individual, Family, and Group Sessions

 “The need for quality resources that support bilingual counseling is increasing, and Swazo and Pelc have done an excellent job blending theory into practice to create a useful resource for practitioners in the field. The exercises are creative and will have an immediate impact on your practice.” 

Kevin A. Fall, PhD: Chair and professor in the Department of Counseling, Leadership, Adult Education, and School Psychology at Texas State University

 “Spectacular work that brings narratives into counseling using storytelling and the intersectionality of overlapping identities and languages. This is an important work for counselors who serve a community that has been persistently underserved.” 

Carla Castaño, PhD: Associate Professor of Spanish, Department of Languages and Cultures, Marian University. Teaches Spanish for Mental Health.

 “Narrative Therapy with Spanish Speakers by Drs. Swazo and Pelc is a wonderful, inspiring companion to therapists who seek to or are already devoted to serving our various Latinx communities. Drs. Swazo and Pelc have written the book that all aspiring or accomplished bilingual (English/Spanish) therapists want by their side in the challenging road of what Janet Malcom called “the impossible profession.” In fact, the authors make our profession a worthy, stimulating one, and do so through a plethora of helpful reflections, tips, perspectives, and much more, all grounded in cultural perspectives. The essence of narrative therapy, that is, its creativity, one that shies away from predetermined metaphors and recipes, is fully embraced and affirmed by the authors. Accordingly, while the authors offer many resources, scripts, and suggestions, anchored by microfictions, morals, sayings, and quotes that are culturally congruent, they also actively encourage the reader to tailor the recommendations not only to the specifics of the clients but also to the personal style of the therapist. Ultimately, the authenticity of the service being delivered is reaffirmed, and the therapist is encouraged to “show up” fully, all the while guided by the astute and insightful framework and examples put forth by Swazo and Pelc. This is the book to reinvigorate a provider’s practice, be it working with individuals, families, or groups, and the book that demystifies bilingual practice by making readily accessible.” 

Andrés J. Consoli, PhD: Associate professor in the Department of Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology, University of California Santa Barbara