Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of the Wright-Constantine Structured Cultural Interview through

Abstract

There is an ongoing discussion of the benefits of integrating a deeper cultural understanding into the therapeutic assessment (TA) framework, including how to collect and utilize information about a client’s cultural background and identities toward TA aims (Fantini, 2016; Finn et al., 2012; Rosenberg et al., 2012; Smith, 2016). The Wright-Constantine Structured Cultural Interview (WCSCI) is a semi-structured interview designed to collect cultural information regarding the client’s lived experiences surrounding different aspects of identity based on the ADDRESSING Framework (Hays, 2022; Wright & Constantine, 2020). There is evidence that the WCSCI increases clinicians’ integration of culture into their case conceptualizations (Wright et al., 2023), as well as increasing clinician self-awareness, improving therapeutic relationships, and informing better treatment recommendations and interventions (Ang et al., in press). This case presentation will outline the WCSCI’s therapeutic potential as it aligns with TA principles. Within the context of a contrived case study (based on components from real assessments), we will describe two primary TA-aligned uses of the WCSCI: 1) conceptualizing client concerns collaboratively and 2) attending to client identities and experiences with respect, humility, and curiosity. Our discussion aims to understand the WCSCI as a therapeutic intervention through a TA framework and will highlight related recommendations for clinical practice and future research.

Speakers

Grace Zhang | New York University

Uma Guarnaccia | New York University

Discussant

Jordan Wright | Augusta University

Chair

Christiina Wusinich | New York University

Goals & Objectives

1. Conceptualize a cultural assessment tool (the WCSCI) within the therapeutic assessment framework.
2. Identify ways to incorporate the assessment of cultural information within therapeutic assessment.
3. Explore the utility of the WCSCI as a therapeutic intervention by understanding the therapeutic potential of framing client concerns within the context of culture, systems of oppression, and intersections of identity.