Providing mental health services to Arab Americans: recommendations and considerations

Arab Americans are an extremely heterogeneous and frequently misunderstood group whose unique characteristics and cultural heritage have received little attention in the mental health literature. To effectively address the needs of Arab Americans, mental health professionals need to be aware of their own biases and misperceptions regarding Arab Americans, have an accurate understanding of Arab cultural and sociopolitical backgrounds, and be able to identify culturally appropriate interventions for use with Arab American clients. This article reviews common stereotyped beliefs many Americans have about Arab Americans and the negative impact these stereotypes can have on the development of a positive Arab American ethnic identity. It also provides detailed information about the cultural and sociopolitical experiences of Arab Americans and offers specific recommendations for providing culturally relevant mental health services to Arab American clients.