Cultural Competence
The Ohio Department of Mental Health (ODMH) is committed to a continuous learning process that builds knowledge, awareness, skills and the capacity to identify, understand and respect the unique beliefs, values, customs, languages and traditions of all Ohioans. This process is necessary to support recovery and to deliver consumer-driven, person-centered mental health services. ODMH considers cultural competence when developing statewide policy, programs and practices because services are most effective when delivered in a culturally competent way. The variety of cultures to be considered include those based on race, ethnicity, geography or a disability such as deafness.
Internally, the department has implemented small group discussions about diversity and racial equity among its staff. The program follows a model developed by Everyday Democracy (formally known as the Study Circles Resource Center). These dialogues explore multiple world views crossing ethnic and cultural boundaries to foster a better understanding of the impact of culture on ODMH work.
Cultural Social Interaction (CSI)
CSI is a program initiated by ODMH to promote dialogue on diversity and racial equality. The CSI program is designed to create a better understanding between people, build a higher level of trust, and create a deeper form of communication among staff to foster a better understanding of the impact of culture on ODMH work. Ultimately, the program is designed to move staff from dialogue into action and change, so that there is a collective approach to infusing cultural competency into policies developed by ODMH.
The CSI program utilizes Everyday Democracy’s Facing Racism in a Diverse Nation study circle concept to help people of all backgrounds take part in meaningful dialogue that examines the socio-economic gaps that impact the delivery of mental health services to racial and ethnic groups. Study circles are small groups of 8 to 12 participants who are assisted by an impartial facilitator(s) that helps the group stay focused and make connections. Through dialogue, participants learn more about the experiences, beliefs, and world views of others. This enables participants to the see differences and commonalities that exist within the group. As a result, group members are better able to focus on common concerns that can lead to a unified approach to address existing barriers.
Multiethnic Advocates for Cultural Competence (MACC)
ODMH funds MACC, which promotes culturally and linguistically appropriate services in Ohio through an annual cultural competence conference, cultural competence training and the promotion of cultural competence resources. By conducting a thorough needs assessment, MACC has identified how Ohio's various cultural groups perceive and respond to mental illness and has identified the special needs of various groups. Using this information, MACC develops reports to share with local mental health boards and agencies with the goal of enhancing their ability to deliver culturally and linguistically appropriate services. For more information, visit the MACC Web site.
Historical Timeline 1984 – 2000
To learn more about how ODMH’s commitment to cultural competence has grown and transformed throughout the years, view our Cultural Competence Historical Timeline.