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Mental health therapists’ perceptions of their readiness to address the intersection of intimate partner violence and suicide
Author(s) -
Wilson John L.,
Uthman Cassandra,
Thompson Stone Jennifer,
NicholsHadeed Corey,
Kruchten Rachel,
Rousseau Sally,
Cerulli Catherine
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
journal of community psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.585
H-Index - 86
eISSN - 1520-6629
pISSN - 0090-4392
DOI - 10.1002/jcop.21937
Subject(s) - mental health , multidisciplinary approach , domestic violence , psychology , suicide prevention , medicine , poison control , nursing , psychotherapist , medical emergency , social science , sociology
Our aim is characterize mental health therapists’ self‐efficacy pertaining to working with patients at risk for intimate partner violence (IPV) and suicide at a community mental health center (CMHC), where these issues intersect. Consistent with community‐based participatory research, a multidisciplinary team partnered with an urban CMHC in New York to conduct 3 focus groups comprising 23 therapists. We iteratively coded and mapped prevalent themes according to self‐efficacy theory. Therapists described multiple sources of self‐efficacy: successful achievement of tasks such as demonstrating a mastery of local resources and knowledge of therapeutic strategies for IPV‐involved clients; vicarious experiences including homicide–suicide portrayals in the media; verbally persuading patients regarding treatment engagement; and physiologic reactions, including distress and burnout. Therapists feel equipped to address patients’ needs, but they want more information on IPV and suicide. Perhaps most surprising was the frustration and isolation participants discussed regarding working with physicians and agencies outside their office walls. Interdisciplinary dialogue and case conferencing may enhance patient care and safety.