Practitioner psychologists' perspectives on working with clients with psychosis in a South-East Asian city-state: A qualitative investigation

Objective

Previous qualitative studies have investigated the experiences of undergoing an evidence-based psychotherapy for psychosis among individuals affected by such condition. However, the literature investigating the perspectives, experiences and needs of psychological practitioners providing the treatment remains considerably underrepresented. In the context of Asian cultures, where pervasive stigma towards psychosis and mental health services exists and interferes with proactive help-seeking, such research appears even more pertinent. To address the gap in the existing literature, this study utilised qualitative methodology to investigate the experiences of practitioner psychologists working with clients with psychosis in a South-East Asian city-state.

Method

Six fully qualified participants were recruited from the local mental health services via convenience sampling. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted. Transcribed verbatim data were then subjected to inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Four superordinate themes emerged, as follows: therapeutic alliance, cognitive behavioural therapy for psychosis (CBTp) as primary approach, cultural influences and needs of practitioners.

Conclusions

Results indicated that both practitioner psychologists and their clients contributed collaboratively to the establishment of therapeutic alliance. Although CBTp was utilised as a principal psychotherapeutic approach, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) was also valued. Necessary adaptations in the treatment were reflected on to address the specificity of local cultures, including the use of language and addressing pervasive public stigma. The necessity of multidisciplinary collaboration, localised training and supervision was also expressed.