Cultural Competency for Alaskans
Cultural Competency and Diversity
Cultural competency is an essential component of ethical, effective, and person-centered behavioral health care. This training explores how culture, identity, historical experiences, bias, and systemic factors influence communication, engagement, trust, and treatment outcomes across diverse populations.
Participants will examine foundational concepts including cultural awareness, cultural sensitivity, cultural humility, implicit bias, ethnocentrism, and cultural safety. Special emphasis is placed on understanding Alaska's unique cultural landscape, including Alaska Native communities, the impact of historical and intergenerational trauma, and the importance of culturally responsive service delivery.
Through reflection exercises, case studies, and practical application, learners will explore how personal assumptions, stereotypes, and unconscious biases can affect professional interactions and clinical decision-making. Participants will also learn strategies to strengthen cultural humility, improve communication, and create more inclusive and equitable environments for clients, colleagues, and communities.
This course supports behavioral health professionals in developing the knowledge, self-awareness, and practical skills necessary to provide respectful, culturally responsive care while fostering trust, belonging, and improved outcomes across diverse populations.
Topics Include:
Cultural competency, cultural humility, and cultural safety
Implicit bias, prejudice, and stereotyping
Historical and intergenerational trauma
Alaska Native cultural considerations
Communication across diverse backgrounds
Trauma-informed and culturally responsive care
Reflective practice and self-awareness
Equity, inclusion, and belonging in behavioral health settings
Strategies for reducing disparities and improving engagement
This training is designed to support ongoing professional growth and reinforce PBHC's commitment to culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and equitable behavioral health services across all communities we serve.