Cultural Competence

OVERVIEW

Culturally competent service providers are aware and respectful of the importance of the values, beliefs, traditions, customs and parenting styles of the people they work with. In addition, services are planned and delivered in regard to the cultural strengths of both the family and the community.

All cultures practice traditions that support and value their children and prepare them for life in their society. This way, cultures are preserved for future generations. Mental health professionals that are culturally competent are specially trained in specific behaviors, attitudes, and values that recognize, respect and value the uniqueness of individuals and groups whose cultural practices are different from those associated with mainstream America. These groups are typically referred to as “people of color” and include Americans of African, Hispanic, Asian and Native American descent. Nevertheless, cultural competence as a service delivery approach can be applied to all systems that serve all persons. Everyone in any society has a culture and is a part of several subcultures, including those related to age, gender, income level, geographic region of residence, sexual orientation, religion and physical disability.

Service providers that are culturally competent are aware and respectful of the importance of the values, beliefs, traditions, customs, and parenting styles of the people they serve. Service providers are also aware of the impact of their own culture on the therapeutic relationship and take these factors into account when planning and delivering services.