Transforming Mental Health Education: An Interview with Dr. Veronica Hardy and Dr. Cathy Lee Arcuino

In an era where cultural awareness is critical to effective mental health practice, two prominent academic professionals have joined efforts to address the pressing need for global perspectives in mental and behavioral health education. Dr. Veronica Hardy, LCSW, NCC, a dedicated Social Work and Counselor Educator, and Dr. Cathy Lee Arcuino, Executive Director of Global Engagement at Wilkes University, have developed an innovative virtual workshop titled Internationalizing Mental and Behavioral Health Education with Global Perspectives. We sat down with them to discuss this groundbreaking initiative.

Interviewer: Dr. Hardy, can you explain why this workshop is so necessary for today’s educators in mental health fields?

Dr. Hardy: Absolutely. The field of mental health is increasingly globalized. As we engage with diverse populations, it's essential that educators equip students with the skills necessary to respond to their needs. This workshop is designed to help educators expand their understanding of various cultural contexts and the global influences on mental health.

Interviewer: Dr. Arcuino, what can participants expect to gain from this workshop?

Dr. Arcuino: Participants will be introduced to methods and best practices from around the world. We’ll explore international research that enriches our understanding of mental health and provides a broader perspective on how different cultures approach these issues. It’s about expanding horizons and rethinking traditional curricula.

Interviewer: Curriculum development seems to be a significant focus. How will this workshop assist educators in that regard?

Dr. Hardy: We’ll offer practical strategies for integrating case studies and international content into existing curricula. It’s vital that educators not only understand the theoretical aspects but also how to implement these concepts in their teaching effectively, all while adhering to accreditation standards.

Interviewer: Ethical considerations are crucial in mental health. How does your workshop address this aspect?

Dr. Arcuino: We’ll engage in critical discussions about social justice, power dynamics, and ethical challenges that arise in cross-global mental health practice. These conversations are essential for preparing educators to navigate the experiences their students will face in real-world scenarios.

Interviewer: Student engagement is another key objective. How do you plan to foster that?

Dr. Hardy: We’ll provide educators with tools to encourage open communication and critical thinking among students from various backgrounds. Empathy is essential in mental health, and by equipping educators with strategies, we can nurture a classroom environment that promotes understanding and collaboration.

Interviewer: What do you hope will be the long-term impact of this workshop on the field of mental health education?

Dr. Arcuino: Our ultimate goal is to cultivate a generation of mental health professionals who are prepared to engage with global mental health issues. By internationalizing the curriculum, we are laying the groundwork for a more effective mental health system.

Interviewer: Thank you both for sharing your insights. This workshop sounds like an incredible opportunity for educators.

Dr. Hardy: Thank you! We believe that by coming together to internationalize mental health education, we can make a significant impact on future practitioners and the communities they serve.

Dr. Arcuino: We invite educators and institutions to join us in this essential movement toward a more globally attuned future in mental health.

For more information or to schedule a workshop session, interested parties can reach out directly to Dr. Hardy and Dr. Arcuino.