Degree
Master of Clinical Science
Program
Family Medicine
Supervisor
Dr. Evelyn Vingilis
2nd Supervisor
Dr. Laura Lewis
Joint Supervisor
3rd Supervisor
Dr. Stephen State
Joint Supervisor
Abstract
Abstract
Aim: To explore the perspectives and practice of psychotherapy of family physicians, and analyze Ontario’s mental health policy documents within the context of psychotherapy.
Methods: In the first study descriptive qualitative methodology was used. Eighteen family physicians were interviewed and the results were presented thematically. In the second study, a policy analysis of Ontario’s mental health policy documents was conducted. The qualitative policy analytic methodology of Peter et al. was used.
Findings: Psychotherapy is an effective treatment of mental illness and is practiced by family physicians. Lack of training and time are barriers, while patient needs and shared care are facilitators for their practice of psychotherapy. Access to insured psychotherapy in Ontario is poor. However, there is neither a discussion of psychotherapy in the mental health policy documents, nor a plan to improve it.
Conclusions: More collaborative mental health care, equitable access to psychotherapy and family physician training in psychotherapy are needed.
Recommended Citation
Hameed, Saadia N., "Psychotherapy in Family Medicine" (2015). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 2906.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/2906
Included in
Community Health Commons, Counseling Commons, Health Services Research Commons, Mental Disorders Commons, Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy Commons