This speaker will discuss the relationship between therapist fidelity (competence/adherence) and outcome for family therapy for schizophrenia. Some of her research will be presented linking various aspects of therapist performance to dropout rates, consumer satisfaction, and a host of client variables. She will also address how Culturally Informed Therapy for Schizophrenia (CIT-S) is being evaluated at the University of Miami, including outcome measures and timeframes. Most importantly, she will present preliminary outcome data comparing CIT-S to a treatment as usual, psychoeducation-only condition. Implications, limitations, and future directions for research and treatment will also be discussed. An interactive format will be utilized to field a discussion with the audience on how techniques of CIT-S can be used in other contexts outside of work with families coping with schizophrenia. Depending on time and interest, additional role-plays will be conducted further demonstrating CIT-S techniques.