Existential Counseling as a Vehicle to Support Latina Breast Cancer Survivors

Latinas in the United States experience high incidences of breast cancer diagnosis (American Cancer Society, 2012). Researchers (e.g., Abraido-Lanza, Chao, & Gammon, 2004; Ashing-Giwa, Padilla, Bohorquez, Tejero, & Garcia, 2006) indicated that Latinas report heightened levels of psychological distress (i.e., depression, anxiety, existential concerns) when compared with other cancer survivors. The purpose of this article is to (a) provide an overview of the mental health concerns of Latina breast cancer survivors and their families, (b) discuss the use of existential counseling to decrease psychological distress, and (c) integrate cultural variables to support cancer recovery from a culturally sensitive perspective.