Psychologists’ experiences towards culturally responsive practices to strengthen social and emotional wellbeing with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients

Abstract

ABSTRACTObjective This study aimed to explore psychologists experiences when providing culturally responsive psychological practice working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander1 clients.Method Psychologists (N = 108, Female 83.2%, Male 16.8%, Aboriginal 13.9%, non-Indigenous 86.1%, age range 22–83) responded to an electronic mixed method survey. Statistical and content analysis were undertaken using data gathered to address the study aims.Results The findings highlighted and validated challenging, successful, and unsuccessful psychological practice adjustments used by psychologists when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients. Aboriginal psychologist’s voices were privileged as traditional knowledge holders.Conclusions There is diversity in opinion and practices utilised by psychologists when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The uncertainty applied to the effectiveness of treatments, and/or outcomes. To enhance social and emotional wellbeing higher education institutes need to embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander content in psychology curriculum to better prepare non-Indigenous psychologists to work in a culturally responsive way with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients.

Keywords

• Indigenous psychology
• social and emotional wellbeing
• mental health