# How can therapy be culturally adapted for clients in Kenya?

URL: https://tymirahealth.com/resources/faqs/how-can-therapy-be-culturally-adapted-for-clients-in-kenya
For: Clinicians | Mental health care | Reviewed by Independent clinical reviewer, Registered mental health clinician, Kenya | Last reviewed 8 November 2026

**Answer:** Evidence from Kenya supports adapting both interventions and measures. Researchers have adapted tools such as the PHQ-9 through focus groups and cognitive interviews so items make sense locally, and group interpersonal therapy has been delivered effectively in Kenyan primary care. Practical steps include working in the client's preferred language, using local idioms of distress, involving family where the client wishes, and checking that tools are validated for your population.

Sources: PMC: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9754261 - JAMA Network Open / PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42301714 - World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-MSD-MER-16.4

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