The Language We Heal In: Code-Switching, Language Choice, and Power Dynamics in Multilingual Counselling
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Authors
Zeng, Zhengqi
Issue Date
2025-09
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
psychology , counselling , multilingual counselling , psychotherapy , multilingualism , multiculturalism
Alternative Title
Abstract
In a world with an increasing need for multilingualism, counselling psychology must address how linguistic practices shape therapeutic processes. This qualitative study explores how code-switching, language choice, and power dynamics influence emotional processing and therapeutic relationships in multilingual counselling. Guided by social constructionism, linguistic relativity, and the psychoanalytic theory of language, this literature review examined twelve peer-reviewed studies using reflexive thematic analysis (TA). Four key themes emerged from the analysis: (1) language as a site of identity and power, (2) code-switching as a power of control and connection, (3) emotional resonance, and (4) attunement and unspoken dynamics. Findings reveal that language repositions speakers within power dynamics, sociocultural hierarchies and identity constructions, affects relational distance, emotional access and meaning availability, and mobilizes transferential patterns tied to mother tongue and training language among multilingual therapists. These insights highlight the need for culturally and linguistically sensitive supervision and training models. By deepening understanding of linguistic dynamics in therapy, this study informs clinical practices that honour metalinguistic awareness, power disparities, and cultural humility.