Culturally Grounded vs. Culturally Responsive: Why the Difference Matters

By Denise L. Mitchell, MSW, RSW, PMP (candidate)

In community work, mental health, education, and social services, we often hear terms like culturally grounded and culturally responsive. While they sound similar, they are not interchangeable. Understanding the difference is essential if we want to build programs that are authentic, respectful, and effective for the people we serve.

What Does Culturally Grounded Mean?

Culturally grounded approaches start from the roots of the community itself. The traditions, values, language, and worldview of the people form the foundation of the program or service.

• The culture isn’t an add-on—it’s the starting point.

• Elders, cultural leaders, and community voices guide design and delivery.

• Programs grow organically out of the community’s way of life.

Example: A youth wellness program in Calgary for immigrant families is shaped by their own teachings, ceremonies, and stories. Rather than borrowing from outside models, it grows directly from the traditions of its participants.

“Culturally grounded work grows from the roots of the community. It protects traditions while shaping the future.”

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What Does Culturally Responsive Mean?

Culturally responsive approaches, on the other hand, start with mainstream models (like Western healthcare or education systems) and adapt them to reflect the cultural needs of the community and the uniqueness of its participants.

• Culture is incorporated into existing systems.

• Practitioners adjust tools and strategies to respect traditions.

• Flexibility and inclusivity are emphasized, but the foundation comes from outside.

Example: A counselling program that uses Western therapy models but integrates smudging, family participation, or language translation so it resonates more deeply.

“Culturally responsive work adapts to fit—it bridges communities and institutions with respect.”

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Side-by-Side Comparison

Visualizing The Difference

Here’s a simple diagram that shows how the two overlap:

Culturally Grounded vs. Culturally Responsive: Why the Difference Matters

This distinction shapes power, ownership, and authenticity in service delivery:

• Culturally grounded programs protect traditions and place community voices at the center.

• Culturally responsive programs ensure mainstream institutions adapt respectfully to diversity.

Together, they form a continuum of practice that helps us preserve heritage while making systems more inclusive.

 “Culture is not decoration. It is the foundation of dignity, belonging, and healing.”

How to Apply These Approaches in Practice

Choosing between a culturally grounded or culturally responsive model depends on your community context and goals:

1. Start with Listening: Ask whether the community wants programs to be rooted in their own traditions or adjusted versions of existing models.

2. Engage Cultural Leaders: Whether grounded or responsive, community voices must shape the process.

3. Balance Flexibility and Authenticity: Grounded models may be harder to scale, while responsive models may risk being too surface-level.

4. Evaluate Outcomes: Track not just participation rates but also cultural relevance, trust, and long-term impact.

When we understand and honor the difference between culturally grounded and culturally responsive approaches, we move closer to building systems of care, education, and wellness that truly reflect who people are and where they come from. This understanding moves us closer to building systems of care, education, and wellness that truly reflect who people are and where they come from.

At Roots & Belonging Mental Health & Consulting Services, we believe culture is not decoration—it is the foundation of dignity, belonging, and healing.