Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is an effective therapy for the treatment of common mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. It can work for clients from most cultural backgrounds but may need to be adapted to ensure that specific groups benefit. This cultural adaption ensures that no-one is left behind.
A Culturally Adapted CBT manual for Black populations in Canada was developed by Dr. Akwatu Khenti, Dr. Kwame McKenzie and Dr. Carolina Vidal in 2011. The work was supported by IRCC (then CIC), CAMH, Black communities and therapists who work with the Black communities in Ontario.
The manual has been used as the basis of training for hundreds of therapists and to support special initiatives. Implementation of CA-CBT for Black populations at Women’s Health in Women’s Hands community health centre in Toronto is credited with a 55% reduction in emergency visits by clients. And a wider partnership including Women’s Health in Women’s Hand Community Health Centre, Sherbourne Health, and the Centre for Victims of Torture which is supported by the Office of Health Equity at CAMH, has increased access to CA-CBT for Black populations across the GTA.
CA-CBT for Black populations is available through Ontario’s Structured Psychotherapy Program.
Now, with funding from Ontario Heath, The Office of Health Equity and its partners are updating the original CA-CBT for Black populations manual to ensure it reflects all new literature and evidence. We will add a dedicated website, a state of the art on line course and a community of practice to promote therapists developing the skills needed to use CA-CBT approaches for Black populations.
The development of resources to enhance and build capacity of providers in CA-CBT for Black populations aligns with recommendations outlined in a Black Health Plan for Ontario – a strategy developed by community, service providers and third sector organizations alongside Ontario Health.
