Transcultural therapy. 2: Mental health and learning disabilities

The first article in this two-part series (Vol 7(15): 901-6) examined the issues surrounding healthcare provision in the context of the UK as a multicultural society in relation to mental health and learning disabilities. This second article considers the development of psychotherapy, theory and skills of working in terms of its impact and influence upon the education and practice of community mental health nurses and community nurses in learning disability within the UK. The major schools of influence in psychology will be examined in relation to their limitations for practice with clients from various cultures. In addition, three multicultural models of counselling which address cultural diversity will be appraised. Finally, the need for educational systems and service providers to foster and develop positive cultural attitudes among nurse practitioners will be emphasized. Both individual practitioners and employment organizations will need to be much more responsive and committed to developing multicultural services as we approach the millennium.