Chapter 30 - Responding to the Challenge: Preparing Mental Health Professionals for the Changing US Demographics

Abstract

A major challenge for mental health professionals who seek to practice effectively in contemporary US society is the increasing cultural diversity of the population. This chapter examines the competencies required for effective mental health practice with culturally and linguistically diverse clients. It also explores curriculum development and training strategies for implementing these competencies that are crucial for preparing graduate students as well as professionals to respond to the challenges posed by the demographics in contemporary US society. The chapter proposes using the Cultural Competence Continuum as a tool for self-examination, and proposes an integrated etic–emic approach for addressing the domains of awareness, knowledge, and skills in cultural proficiency training.