Addressing social determinants of mental health through cognitive behavioral therapy

Abstract

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely studied and implemented means of counseling. Researchers have emphasized the need for counselors to consider wider contextual factors that affect clients in their use of CBT, including the social determinants of mental health (SDMH). We conducted a concurrent nested mixed methods study to better understand the outcomes of a 3-month CBT-based SDMH training program for N = 8 professional counselors. We implemented a quasi-experimental quantitative design and a phenomenological qualitative design. Results of Wilcoxon signed-rank tests indicate statistically significant increases in participants’ SDMH and multicultural competence following completion of the training program. Thematic analysis findings suggest practical steps participants intend to take to address SDMH in their CBT practice with clients, including use of universal assessment tools and engagement in further training. Implications for counseling practice conclude.