Cultural Diversity and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
Handbook of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy by Disorder (2023)
By Esteban V. Cardemil, Sarah J. Hartman & José R. Rosario
This chapter explores how culturally responsive approaches can strengthen Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for communities that have historically experienced systemic barriers to mental health care. The authors highlight that while CBT has become one of the most widely used and effective therapeutic models, many people who could truly benefit from it — particularly Latinx communities — still struggle to access and engage with services.
By integrating research on both cultural adaptation and implementation science, this work emphasizes that effective treatment must go beyond clinical techniques. It requires deep consideration of:
• Intervention content — ensuring therapeutic strategies reflect cultural values, lived experiences, and language
• Intervention delivery — adapting how therapy is offered to reduce stigma, increase comfort, and honor cultural strengths
• Provider training — helping clinicians develop cultural humility and competency so clients feel seen, heard, and respected
The chapter features two interventions focused on supporting depression among Latinx individuals. Through these examples, the authors demonstrate what culturally grounded collaboration between communities, researchers, and mental health providers can look like in practice.
They conclude by calling for continued attention to intersectional identities, structural forces, and ongoing evaluation of both cultural adaptations and clinical competency — vital steps toward more equitable and identity-affirming mental health care.
Read more:
Published by Elsevier in Case Studies and Application for Adults, Handbook of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy by Disorder
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-85726-0.00040-5
