Abstract
This study explores mental health workers’ perceptions of cultural competence. This qualitative study was conducted through face-to-face interviews. This study takes on a phenomenological approach and utilizes content analysis, particularly latent analysis. Ten participants were selected through a snowball sampling method. All participants provide some form of direct mental health services, mostly work with children and families as well as crisis services. The themes that emerged are as follows: cultural competence is typically defined as being culturally aware; 2) the development of a personal connection with the client is the primary culturally competent skill utilized; and 3) the main role agencies have in facilitating cultural competence is by continually raising awareness of culture and cultural issues. Implication for social work policy and practice are also discussed.