Complementing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for Pacific peoples in New Zealand

This study aimed to determine the efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) delivery to Pacific peoples by exploring Pacific psychologists’ perspectives. The research was qualitative in its approach, using the Pacific methodology of “ talanoa.” The study carried out two face-to-face focus-group interviews using the talanoa method. Initially, nine participants expressed their interest in the study. However, five participants did not attend the interviews. Three participants participated in the first focus group discussion, and one participant participated in the second focus group, which resulted in an individual interview. All four participants were clinically trained psychologists, with an average of 14 years of clinical experience. These participants worked continuously with Pacific service users in various mental health settings and private practice. The need to enhance the compatibility of CBT with the culture of Pacific peoples was highlighted throughout the study. From the psychologists’ perspectives, there were significant challenges regarding the delivery of CBT among Pacific peoples. These included: accessibility barriers due to socioeconomic and financial stressors; funding constraints and the availability and affordability of therapy sessions; the appropriateness of treatment that needed to be tailored to suit Pacific peoples; and the lack of spiritual and cultural aspects of treatment. The results of the study provide preliminary validation for the efficacy of CBT among Pacific peoples. There is an increasing awareness that delivering culturally relevant and appropriate care to Pacific peoples living in New Zealand requires a deeper understanding of valuing the realities and unique experiences they bring both collectively and individually. Ultimately, the findings provide significant insight into the barriers to the efficacy of CBT and strategies to overcome these.