Abstract
The role of culture has significant implications for mental health services and treatments for Southeast Asians. The Iu-Mien who immigrated as refugees of war from Laos experienced tremendous amounts of trauma prior to arriving in the United States. Many had direct exposure to war trauma, experienced pre and post migration trauma and acculturation stress. While mental illnesses are evident in the Mien community then and now, many do not seek services. This research project examined the low utilization rates of the Mien for mental health services as well as the cultural beliefs, values, attitudes, and behavior that may affect their utilizations. The findings from this study revealed that traditional methods of healings remain in practice in conjunction with Western treatments.