Description

---

This volume is designed to enhance the cultural competence of mental health and educational professionals working with West Indian families. It provides a concise introduction to the historical, sociopolitical, family, and cultural contexts that shape the experiences of this growing immigrant population. Describing typical family structures, roles, and values, the author highlights inter-island differences as well as differences between African Americans and African West Indian Americans. Guidelines for culturally aware assessment, intervention, and training are presented, illustrated with sensitive clinical material. Ideal for practicing professionals, the book also serves as a text in graduate-level courses in multiculturalism, psychological assessment, linguistic assessment, educational assessment, and family therapy.

About the Author

---

Sharon-Ann Gopaul-McNicol, Ph.D., is the Executive Director of Multicultural Educational and Psychological Services and an assistant professor at St. John's University, Graduate Department of Psychology. She is a consulting psychologist for New York State Board of Education and New York State Department of Substance Abuse, a supervising psychologist for mental health workers on multicultural issues, as well as a clinical/school psychologist. The author of two immigrant handbooks and a number of journal articles, she is a member of the American Psychological Association, the New York State Association of Black Psychologists, and serves on the Board of Directors on multicultural issues at Molloy College.

Praise For…

---

"Dr. Sharon Gopaul-McNicol's book is a long-awaited gift to the therapeutic community. It is an invaluable resource for any clinician working with Black West Indian families and anyone interested in the impact of culture on assessment. We will be using this book for years to come." --Janet R. Brice-Baker, Ph.D., University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey

"This is a trailblazer. It is a perceptive discussion of complex cultural concerns, and provides not only professional insights but a truly sensitive and even passionate response to a crying need. It is a welcome reference work for educators, social workers, and health professionals who work with Caribbean immigrants." --George Irish, PhD


"In clear, concise language, the author introduces the historical roots of this underserved immigrant group."
— Readings