Mexican women tend to have limited access to medical and mental health care resources. Some of the common clinical issues experienced by Mexican woman are psychological conflict, depression, anxiety, and psychosomatic symptoms. Appropriate treatment approaches for therapy varies depending on the nature of the presenting problem. If clinical issues are intrapsychic, introspective or behavioral approaches to mental health treatment may be appropriate. If issues are external in nature, therapy may be aimed at social action and alleviating the problems of poverty and discrimination. There is a social-cultural situation for some women known as "Marias" living in large urban cities. These poor, uneducated women are highly discriminated against and very isolated. Just like other Mexican women, the "Marias" rarely seek help on their own and use an authority figure to intercede for them. An important part of counseling Mexican women is considering their psychosocial, economic, and political situation. Family therapy is often recommended in working with Mexican women due to the importance of the extended family, and group therapy may be beneficial. Cuento (folklore) therapy may be appropriate with the children. (Contains 13 references.) (Author/JDM)