The Cultural Formulation Interview (CFI) Guide is a structured tool designed to help clinicians understand a patient’s cultural background and its impact on mental health. It provides a framework for exploring cultural identity, beliefs, values, and social contexts that influence a patient’s experience of illness and treatment. The guide facilitates open and respectful communication between clinicians and patients, ensuring culturally sensitive care. It includes questions that help identify cultural factors affecting diagnosis, coping strategies, and treatment preferences.
By using the CFI, healthcare professionals can enhance accuracy in assessment, improve rapport, and tailor interventions to meet patients’ unique cultural needs. The guide is particularly useful in psychiatric practice, promoting awareness of cultural diversity and reducing bias. It serves as an essential resource for psychiatrists, psychologists, and mental health professionals committed to culturally competent care. Ultimately, it supports better patient outcomes and strengthens trust in the therapeutic relationship.