The DSM-5 Cultural Formulation Interview

The DSM-5 Cultural Formulation Interview (CFI) is a tool used by mental health professionals to better understand how a person’s cultural background influences their mental health experiences. It helps clinicians explore cultural identity, beliefs about illness, social support, and cultural factors affecting diagnosis and treatment. The goal is to ensure care is respectful, relevant, and effective by considering individual cultural contexts, reducing misunderstandings, and improving communication between the patient and provider. The CFI promotes a more personalized approach to mental health care that recognizes the importance of culture in well-being.