Culturally Adapted Psychotherapy: A Systematic Review and Introduction of The Integrated Model of Cultural Adaptation in Psychotherapy (IMCAP)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Ph.D. Candidate of Psychology, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.

2 Associate Professor, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Aim: This study systematically reviewed research on culturally adapted psychotherapy and introduced the Integrated Model of Cultural Adaptation in Psychotherapy (IMCAP).
 
Method: The first phase involved a systematic review of 12 studies published between 2020 and 2024. The studies were evaluated according to five criteria: benefits of culturally adapted psychotherapy, applied models, targeted disorders, therapeutic approaches, and target populations. In the second phase, findings from existing frameworks and empirical evidence were integrated to develop the IMCAP model.
 
Results: The reviewed studies demonstrated that culturally adapted psychotherapy significantly reduces psychological symptoms, improves treatment adherence, and enhances quality of life. Although several frameworks for cultural adaptation were identified, many studies lacked a structured adaptation model. Based on the synthesis of previous models and research findings, the IMCAP framework was developed with five core phases: identification, cultural adaptation, therapist training, intervention and implementation, and evaluation and revision. The model emphasizes collaboration with target communities and continuous monitoring throughout implementation.
 
Conclusion: IMCAP provides a comprehensive and flexible framework for designing culturally adapted psychotherapeutic interventions across diverse populations. The model may facilitate the development of more culturally responsive mental health services and improve treatment effectiveness in multicultural contexts.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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