Working with Cultures of Poverty in Psychotherapy: Tools for Clinicians
Working with Cultures of Poverty in Psychotherapy: Tools for Clinicians
Summary
This workshop delves into the complex intersections between poverty, mental health, and psychotherapy. The workshop will explore how socioeconomic factors such as scarcity and systemic inequality contribute to mental health challenges, and work against class mobility. Participants will be encouraged to identify comparisons and contrasts of their cultural background relative to the culture of poverty. Special attention will be given to working effectively with individuals and communities facing poverty, recognizing cultural dynamics, and addressing biases that can impact therapy outcomes. Through interactive discussions and hands-on activities, this workshop will offer knowledge and to increase awareness of behaviors of poverty and tools to apply that awareness toward improved clinical outcomes.
Presenter
Richard Kutz, PsyD, ABPP, is a licensed clinical psychologist and the Program Director of the Doctoral Psychology Internship at Conemaugh Health System. He serves as a Behavioral Medicine faculty member for the Conemaugh Family Medicine Residency. Dr. Kutz earned his Doctor of Psychology degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2014. He completed a post-doctoral fellowship at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in 2015. Board-certified in Clinical Health Psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology, Dr. Kutz's professional interests include health psychology, psychoneuroimmunology, and trauma survivorship, with a focus on sexual trauma. He is actively involved in professional organizations such as the American Psychological Association and the Pennsylvania Psychological Association, where he serves as Chairperson of the Integrated Care Committee. Dr. Kutz has contributed to the field through presentations and publications, including a commentary in Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice and presentations at the Pennsylvania Academy of Family Physicians and the Keystone Trauma, Emergency Management, and Neurology Summit.
Learning Objectives:
As a result of engaging in the presentation, attendees will be able to:
Evaluate areas of cultural contrast between your background as a provider and clients’ cultures of poverty.
Identify and explain the psychological effects of scarcity, systemic inequality, and socioeconomic stressors on mental health.
Develop and implement culturally sensitive therapeutic approaches that address the unique challenges and strengths of individuals and communities experiencing poverty.