Texas board moves to cut cultural training for therapists

Proposed Change to Texas Mental Health Provider Training Sparks Debate

Teh Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC) recently voted unanimously to propose removing “cultural diversity or competency” as a specific requirement for continuing education for several licensed mental health professions. This move has ignited a fierce debate between those who support the shift and mental health professionals who argue it will negatively impact patient care, especially for marginalized communities.

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How do you believe the state should balance flexibility and cultural competency in CE requirements?

Revisiting Cultural Competence: A Texas Mental Health Debate

Interview with Dr. Lucinda Bennett, Clinical Psychologist and former BHEC member

Archyde recently spoke with Dr. Lucinda Bennett, a distinguished clinical psychologist and former member of the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council (BHEC), to discuss the proposed change to Texas mental health provider training requirements and its implications.

Archyde (AD): Dr.Bennett, thanks for joining us today.LetS dive right in. The BHEC proposed removing “cultural diversity or competency” as a specific requirement for continuing education. Can you walk us through the background of this decision?

Dr.Lucinda Bennett (LB): Thank you for having me.The BHEC has been reassessing various continuing education requirements for licensed mental health professionals in Texas. This specific change aims to allow providers more flexibility in their CE choices, aligning with their practice needs and preferences.

AD: But why remove cultural competency specifically? Some argue it’s more vital than ever in today’s diverse texas.

LB: While many agree on the importance of cultural competency, some believe the current requirement may not be as effective as intended. Critics suggest it’s too broad and can lead tobox-checking rather than meaningful learning.

AD: That’s a fair point.However, opponents argue that removing this requirement could lead to a decline in culturally sensitive care.How do you respond to these concerns?

LB: I understand and share those concerns. It’s crucial for mental health providers to understand their patients’ cultural backgrounds to deliver effective, sensitive care. The proposed change doesn’t eliminate cultural competency training; it just allows providers to incorporate it into their CE mix in a way that best suits their practice and patients.

AD: Another argument against the change is that it might disproportionately affect marginalized communities.Your thoughts on this?

LB: Absolutely, that’s a valid concern. Marginalized communities frequently enough face unique mental health challenges exacerbated by cultural misunderstandings. We must ensure that providers are equipped to address these needs. We’ve heard these concerns,and I’m confident the BHEC will consider them in their final decision.

AD: Lastly, Dr.Bennett, what can mental health providers do meanwhile to ensure they continue to provide culturally competent care?

LB: Providers can seek out CE opportunities that focus on cultural competency, pursue training in evidence-based ethnically tailored treatments, and engage in self-reflection on their own cultural biases and assumptions.This way, they’re not only keeping up with their licensing requirements but also delivering the best care possible to their patients.

Dr. Bennett’s thoughts certainly provide a nuanced outlook on this complex issue. As Texas mental health professionals await the BHEC’s final decision, how do you believe the state should balance flexibility and cultural competency in CE requirements?