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A study of families' satisfaction with a family interventions in psychosis service in Somerset
Author(s) -
Stanbridge Roger I.,
Burbach Frank R.,
Lucas Andy S.,
Carter Karen
Publication year - 2003
Publication title -
journal of family therapy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.52
H-Index - 45
eISSN - 1467-6427
pISSN - 0163-4445
DOI - 10.1111/1467-6427.00243
Subject(s) - psychological intervention , referral , psychology , mental health , apprehension , family therapy , service (business) , mental health service , nursing , clinical psychology , medicine , psychiatry , economy , economics , cognitive psychology
Although research has shown the efficacy of family interventions in psychosis, there has been little research into families' own experience of services in routine clinical settings. Fifteen of the first twenty‐two referrals to a Somerset Family Interventions Service agreed to take part in semi‐structured interviews regarding family satisfaction and clinical outcome. High levels of engagement and satisfaction with the service were reported in spite of initial apprehension regarding family sessions. Family members thought that the sessions had helped them deal more effectively with problems and relatives' symptoms. They valued the opportunity for open discussion, developing new perspectives and problem‐solving, as well as liaison/closer working with mental health services. Positive therapeutic qualities/skills (e.g. empathic, non‐judgemental approach; mutually agreed goals) were highlighted. This study also indicated that successful engagement in family work requires referral at an early stage. The findings of this study, particularly those relating to the therapeutic relationship, are discussed, including their relevance for future research.