Transforming an MFT program: a model for enhancing diversity.

Area of Science:

• Marriage and Family Therapy Education
• Social Justice in Higher Education
• Diversity and Inclusion in Graduate Programs

Background:

• Traditional recruitment and retention strategies for students of color in marriage and family therapy (MFT) programs are insufficient.
• There is a need for MFT educators to take leadership roles in program transformation.
• Current graduate programs often lack a deep, systemic commitment to diversity and social justice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To argue for the necessity of transforming MFT graduate programs to actively embrace diversity and social justice.
• To present a model for systemic change within MFT programs.
• To prepare all MFT therapists to advocate for equity in an increasingly diverse society.

Main Methods:

• The article proposes a conceptual model for program transformation.
• It outlines key areas for systemic change: readiness, recruitment, retention, assessment, and professional development.
• The approach emphasizes an active, systemic commitment to diversity and social justice.

Main Results:

• Systemic transformation is essential for MFT programs to effectively support students of color.
• This transformation better prepares all therapists to address societal inequities.
• The proposed model provides a framework for implementing these changes.

Conclusions:

• MFT programs must move beyond superficial diversity efforts towards deep, systemic change.
• Leadership from MFT educators is crucial for program transformation.
• Achieving diversity and social justice readiness equips therapists to be effective advocates for equity.