SAMHSA offers free e-learning program on cultural competency

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is offering a free, online program to help behavioral health professionals provide culturally and linguistically appropriate services. The program’s four courses cover connections between culture and behavioral health; the impact of cultural identity on interactions with clients; and ways to engage, assess and treat clients from diverse backgrounds. Professionals working to address the opioid epidemic among racial and ethnic minority populations should find the program timely. The program takes roughly five hours to complete, and providers can earn continuing education credit. (SAMHSA bulletin, 7/1/19)