Working with What You Have: A Literature Review of the Culture and Accessibility of Mental Health Therapy in Rural Communities

Author

Paige TiefenthalerFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-5-2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MA - Master of Arts

Department

Expressive Therapies

Advisor

Rebecca Zarate

Abstract

This thesis explores the existing literature on the culture, values, ideals, and challenges experienced in rural areas. The influence of social and physical barriers on rural life is examined with emphasis placed on evaluating the cultural effects of isolation, the dependency on a community, and local pride and reputation. The existence of mental health therapy resources within these areas is examined to understand why rural residents struggle to receive care and how cultural factors influence help-seeking behaviors. Further research explains the therapeutic interventions that are commonly found within these areas, their benefits, and their challenges. Potential mental health therapy interventions are outlined within the context of how they apply or can be adapted to rural communities and examples are provided to show ways of overcoming mental health stigma and help-seeking barriers. This literature review is done to educate readers about rural living and promote research surrounding mental health issues within rural communities.

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.

Recommended Citation

Tiefenthaler, Paige, "Working with What You Have: A Literature Review of the Culture and Accessibility of Mental Health Therapy in Rural Communities" (2023). Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses. 676.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_theses/676