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In a multicultural society health professionals need to be equipped with knowledge and skills in working with individuals and families who are moving from one culture (and language) to another. An understanding of acculturation is essential as is an understanding of an individual’s personal journey of acculturation. Detailed knowledge of specific cultures is not required, but the ability to work across cultures and locate information and resources on specific cultures is. Multicultural Australia is represented by around 200 cultures and it is possible that a health worker may have a client from any of these cultural backgrounds. Therefore they need access to education that enables them to work transculturally, that is a pluralistic approach which works across cultures as much as possible.
The QTMHC provides a variety of training and professional development in the field of transcultural mental health. Our flagship suite of training is the Managing Cultural Diversity in Mental Health program. This provides participants with the knowledge, awareness and skills to develop and deliver culturally appropriate services for all members of our multicultural society. More detailed descriptions about this program, as well as other training available, can be found in our Education & Development Handbook.
Our education programs focus on practical workforce development strategies that enhance clinical outcomes with an emphasis on the development of respectful curiosity with regard to culture, language, spirituality and other contextual issues that are paramount in effective clinical service. The QTMHC's approach to training involves flexible content and delivery that aims to provide clinicians with knowledge as well as practical clinical tools. We provide training across Queensland to a range of stakeholders including Queensland Health, the non-government sector and the university sector.
We believe that the effect of having a culturally responsive workforce is that members of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities are more likely to receive an equitable service that respects their cultural heritage and values. Consequently, mental health workers are also more likely to achieve improved outcomes when working with their CALD clients and their families.
The QTMHC welcomes all enquiries about our training, including any questions about content and delivery. A Training Calendar for 2011 has been developed, however if you have a specific time and topic in mind, do not hesitate to call. All enquiries regarding the QTMHC Education and Training Program can be diretcted to our Clinical Educator whose contact details are as follows:-
Mr Greg Turner
A/Clinical Educator
Ph. (07) 3167 8333
1800 188 189 toll free outside Brisbane metropolitan)
Email: greg_turner@health.qld.gov.au.
Downloads
Education & Development Handbook
Education & Development Brochure
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