Integrating a psychoeducational program with short-term therapy for Asian international college students

A randomized controlled clinical trial

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/kp26sk84

Keywords:

Asian International Students, psychoeducation, psychotherapy, treatment outcomes

Abstract

Mental health challenges are a significant concern for Asian international students in the U.S., who often underutilize mental health services. This study explores the effectiveness of combining psychoeducation with short-term individual therapy to improve therapy outcomes in this population. Participants (N = 44) completed pre-intervention assessments (i.e. depression, anxiety, stress, etc.) and were then randomized into two groups: psychoeducation plus therapy or therapy-only. Both groups received eight therapy sessions. Post-intervention assessments revealed that the psychoeducation plus therapy group showed significant improvements in anxiety, sleep and distress level compared to the therapy-only group. The psychoeducation group also exhibited significantly better attitudes toward mental health treatment. This study underscores the value of integrating psychoeducation with therapy to enhance mental health outcomes and attitudes among Asian international students. These findings advocate for culturally sensitive psychoeducational interventions to address the unique challenges faced by this population in university counseling settings.

Author Biographies

  • Yuanruo Xu, Adelphi University, USA

    Yuanruo Xu is a fifth-year doctoral student at the Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology, Adelphi University. An international student from China, her research focuses on attitudes toward mental health and the impact of psychoeducation in short-term psychotherapy for individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, with an emphasis on multicultural approaches in psychotherapy. Address for correspondence: yuanruoxu@mail.adelphi.edu.

  • Han Wang, Northwestern University, USA

    Han Wang is a master’s student in Health Analytics at the School of Professional Studies, Northwestern University. With her background in psychology and healthcare data, her research interests focus on mechanisms and the evaluation of interventions aimed at improving psychotherapy quality and outcomes across diverse populations. Address for correspondence: hanwang2027@u.northwestern.edu.

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Published

2025-09-13

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Vol. 15 No. 8 (2025): Journal of International Students

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Research Articles (English, regular edition)

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How to Cite

Xu, Y., & Wang, H. (2025). Integrating a psychoeducational program with short-term therapy for Asian international college students: A randomized controlled clinical trial. Journal of International Students, 15(8), 1-24. https://doi.org/10.32674/kp26sk84