Abstract
Multiple regression models linking client counselor preferences, client-provider ethnic/racial match and provider self-perceived cultural competence to clinical outcome was developed with samples of African American, Latino American and White American adult outpatient community mental health clients (n=1153). The models tested hypothesized relationships of cultural factors predicted by the Multicultural Assessment Intervention Process model. Measured variables included clients' preferences for the language in which mental health services were to be provided and the culture (race/ethnicity) of the provider, client-provider ethnic/racial match, self-perceived provider cultural competence and clinical outcome as measured by Global Assessment of Functioning scores at Time 2 statistically controlling for client scores at Time 1. Results indicated that lack of a client-provider ethnic/racial match and higher levels of provider self-perceived sensitivity predicted African American clinical outcome. These same results plus higher levels of provider self-perceived awareness of cultural barriers predicted Latino American clinical outcome. None of the cultural variables were found to predict White American clinical outcome. Multicultural Assessment Intervention Process model implications are discussed.