Implementing a whole-of-service stepped care approach to personality disorder treatment: Impact of training and service redesign on clinician attitudes and skills

Personality disorders are a highly prevalent mental health condition. Historically, clinician attitudes have been negative, and only a small number have specialised training. This study evaluated clinician attitudes and confidence in working with people with personality disorder following the combination of training and implementation of a stepped care whole-of-service approach. A total of 102 multidisciplinary mental health clinicians were trained to implement the stepped care approach, and completed surveys prior to implementation and at 12 months follow up. Clinicians delivered manualised structured psychological therapy as part of the model. Measures assessed changes in attitudes and confidence, and impact of the service changes and therapy approach. Qualitative responses elucidated core themes. Evaluation at 12 months post training and service redesign showed improvements in clinician skills, confidence, theoretical knowledge and attitudes. Qualitative thematic analysis found core themes of improved understanding, clinical skills and improvements in the accessibility and timeliness of treatment. Implementing a whole-of-service model featuring stepped care therapies enhanced clinician attitudes, confidence, skills and knowledge in working with people with personality disorders. Clinicians identified that the whole-of-service model also improved accessibility to treatment, and quality of clinical care to the consumer and their carers.