Elephant in the therapy room. Conversations about race, ethnicity, and culture in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Practice

Odusote, Faithful and Kunorubwe, Taf ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5624-5299 2024. Elephant in the therapy room. Conversations about race, ethnicity, and culture in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Practice. Presented at: BABCP Spring Conference, Online, 8-10 April 2024.

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Abstract

CBT practice and literature are increasingly focusing on the idea that delivering CBT in a generic manner may make it less effective and acceptable to clients from diverse backgrounds (Bennett et al., 2016). It might not be suitable for individuals from diverse backgrounds due to the significant role that culture plays in how difficulties are understood (Naeem et al., 2019). There are implicit cultural assumptions within CBT that need acknowledgment (Kunorubwe, 2023), and the generic application could hinder the process of change, especially if it contradicts or isn't acceptable within the client’s cultural framework (Jameel et al., 2022). Therefore, it's crucial for CBT and LICBT therapists to consider the client's identity throughout engagement, assessment, formulation, treatment, and even supervision. However, many therapists hesitate to discuss topics related to race, ethnicity, religion, and broader culture (Beck, 2016). As you read this workshop description, you might even want to pause and reflect: Have you ever almost or avoided certain discussions? If so, what led to that? Were there specific thoughts or emotions influencing your decision? Common reasons include therapist discomfort (Knox et al., 2003), therapist concerns about being seen as intrusive (Dogra et al., 2007), and even fear of clients being offended or uncomfortable (Beck, 2016). However, research with clients suggests that these discussions are valued and likely to positively impact the quality of the therapeutic relationship if handled well (Fuertes et al., 2002). Therefore, in this workshop, we will reflect on what makes some of these conversations "difficult" and provide a starting point for appropriately including discussions about race, ethnicity, and culture in psychological therapies.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Keynote)
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Schools > Psychology
Date of Acceptance:	10 April 2024
Last Modified:	10 Nov 2024 06:45
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/167987

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