This course examines the historical and generational trauma experienced by Hmong Americans in the United States. Despite Hmong Americans being in the United States for over 45 years, many providers continue to struggle with fully recognizing that their present-life experiences and modern-day symptoms, are triggered by past events. Providers also cannot make the connection to the root cause, thus resulting in Hmong Americans exhibiting the effects of historical trauma through mental health and substance abuse. This course will provide providers with an understanding of the experiences of Hmong Americans and enable providers to bridge the difference between themselves and Hmong Americans in the helping profession.

The workshop will address these issues through a combination of interactive dialogue, focused discussion, applied-practice exercises, and small group work.

Learning Objectives

1. Examine the historical trauma of Hmong Americans and its effect on mental health and help seeking behaviors.

2. Recognize and respond appropriately to cultural differences to be culturally sensitive in interventions with Hmong American clients.