Evaluation of the Multicultural Psychological Therapies Program

Overview

Australia’s culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) population has unique identities and mental health and wellbeing needs. Our work in this area aims to develop a much-needed evidence-based for delivering mental health services which address the needs of this population.

One initiative that aims to address the unique needs of CALD communities is the Multicultural Psychological Therapies (MPT) Program at the World Wellness Group that aims to provide a culturally responsive therapy model. The service provides evidence-based psychological therapy to people from CALD backgrounds with mild to moderate mental illness using four different service delivery models. To ensure its effectiveness and long-term sustainability, QCMHR has been commissioned to conduct a mixed-methods evaluation study that provides insight into the service’s reach to the CALD community in Brisbane South and how well it has been implemented in accordance to its aims.

The Queensland Mental Health Commission has funded the Queensland Transcultural Mental Health Centre (QTMHC) to develop and implement a CALD Suicide Prevention Training Package to train and build capacity amongst communities and organisations providing services to those from CALD backgrounds. To provide practice-based evidence and assess the short-term and medium-term program impact, we are conducting an independent evaluation of the project over the course of 2019 to 2021 throughout its development, piloting and implementation phases.

This research will provide valuable information to stakeholders working with CALD communities, including effective ways of service provision, while providing prospects for growth for programs.