Key Components of Cultural and Linguistic Competence for Mental Health Consultants

Key Components of Cultural and Linguistic Competence for Mental Health Consultants

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The culturally competent mental health consultant is able to recognize their own cultural perspective and influences; be open to, appreciate, and respect cultural differences; view intercultural interactions as learning opportunities; and integrate cultural resources to support effective consultation (Lynch & Hanson, 2002). ECMHC’s who strive to incorporate culturally and linguistically competent practices into their interactions with others demonstrate the capacity for: Self-Awareness, Respect for Diversity, and Reflective Practices. Each of these capacities is described in further detail below and applied in learning activities that follow.

Self-Awareness

Self-awareness relates to understanding your own culture. Through self-awareness, consultants recognize that their own culture and experiences shape their personal and professional world view, including perceptions and expectations of themselves, others, and interactions – as well as those related to social, emotional, and behavioral health and intervention.

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This product was developed [in part] under grant number 1H79SM082070-01 from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The views, policies and opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of SAMHSA or HHS.