Cultural competency: From philosophy to research and practice

Cultural competency in the delivery of mental health services has gained considerable momentum. This momentum has been accompanied by questions about the meaning, usefulness, and precision of cultural competency. The author argues that cultural competency is composed of general processes (scientific mindedness, dynamic sizing, and culture-specific skills), as well as a series of concrete and trainable strategies. The incorporation of these processes and strategies into treatment can improve treatment outcomes with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds. (c) 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.