Predicting cultural competence: Implications for practice and training

Training and work experience with clients from diverse groups were examined among 266 recent PhDs in counseling and clinical psychology Surveys were mailed to 600 participants who completed their graduate work between 1985 and 1987. Analyses examined which training variables predicted self-rated competence in providing services to various cultural groups. Results indicated that most therapists reported competence in working with diverse clients, but there was notable variability among ratings of therapists' self-perceived competence with different client groups. Exposure during training to working with clients from specific cultural groups was important in predicting therapists' current perceived competence. Most respondents reported accessing education and training experiences in providing services to diverse client groups. A small but troubling number of respondents reported seeing clients despite reporting low levels of competence with that client group.