Experiences of Bicultural Mental Health Clinicians Working Within Australian Mental Health Settings

Abstract

Access to mental health services for people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds remains problematic owing to a variety of factors that contribute to low engagement with mental health services. There is also a need for our mental health systems to be more culturally safe to effectively and equitably support their diverse consumer population. Several initiatives have been explored to increase access to mental health services and improve help-seeking behaviours among CALD populations. One of these measures is the use of bicultural workers (BCWs). This study aims to explore the experiences of bicultural mental health clinicians working in tertiary and community-based mental health services. An exploratory, descriptive qualitative study was undertaken. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews involving n = 18 mental health clinicians in area and community mental health services. Participants were recruited using purposive convenience sampling. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings of this study highlighted three key themes: (a) A shared understanding of the world (subthemes: ‘The lived experience of biculturalism’, ‘Having a different perspective’ and ‘Building rapport and managing boundaries’); (b) Working with other colleagues; and (c) Establishing a BCW model. Participants discussed their ability to use their biculturalism to understand consumers’ perspectives from CALD backgrounds. A shared understanding of the world was also seen as valuable. They reported varied experiences regarding whether their biculturalism was valued within their teams. Many participants felt that establishing a dedicated BCW role model within mental health settings could benefit consumers.