Facilitating Access to Mental Health Services for Undocumented Latin Americans in the United States: Guidance for Clinicians

Abstract

Undocumented Latin Americans struggling with their mental health rarely access psychological services due to several barriers. In this this article, barriers to access services are expounded along with recommendations for clinicians on how to facilitate access to mental health treatment for this population. Barriers addressed include economic hardship, insurance restrictions, limited exposure to services, unsafe healthcare systems, linguistic and cultural incongruity, stigma, and low social capital. Several recommendations are provided for clinicians on facilitating access by building community partnerships and tailoring psychological practices to meet undocumented Latin Americans’ needs.