Exploring meaning in culture: Insights from meaning-centered psychotherapy in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

OBJECTIVES

This research sought to explore the applicability of MCP within Aotearoa New Zealand. The objectives of this study were to investigate Indigenous patients' experiences of an MCP trial and Indigenous therapists' experiences of recruitment and MCP delivery within the trial.

METHODS

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 2 Indigenous patients with advanced cancer receiving MCP, 1 Indigenous support person, and 4 Indigenous health psychologists delivering MCP about their experience in the research trial. Participants were also asked their views on recruiting Indigenous populations into research trials, and on the applicability of MCP in Aotearoa New Zealand. Reflective thematic analysis was utilized to analyze interview transcripts.

RESULTS

This study showed that trust is central to recruiting Indigenous populations into research trials and contributed to the overall success of MCP delivery. Participants highlighted community trust and organizational mistrust as potential contributors toward recruitment challenges. Trust in the self, in others, and in culture was central to finding meaning through MCP. When conducted in a safe patient-centered therapeutic space, MCP concepts and meaning-making can integrate effectively into Te Ao Māori and an Indigenous context.

SIGNIFICANCE OF

RESULTS

MCP concepts and delivery may integrate well into a Te Ao Māori framework. Care should be taken in future delivery of MCP within Aotearoa New Zealand, ensuring the patient-focused nature of the therapeutic modality is maintained, and the patient's own connection with culture is the highest priority.