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Thematic analysis of youth mental health providers' perceptions of neuropsychological assessment services
Author(s) -
Delagneau Garance,
Bowden Stephen C.,
Bryce Shayden,
vanderEL Kristi,
Hamilton Matthew,
Adams Sophie,
Burgat Liz,
Killackey Eoin,
Rickwood Debra,
Allott Kelly
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
early intervention in psychiatry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.087
H-Index - 45
eISSN - 1751-7893
pISSN - 1751-7885
DOI - 10.1111/eip.12876
Subject(s) - thematic analysis , neuropsychology , mental health , neuropsychological assessment , psychology , clinical psychology , perception , service provider , psychiatry , medicine , cognition , qualitative research , service (business) , social science , neuroscience , sociology , economy , economics
Aim A growing number of quantitative studies have investigated the utility of neuropsychological assessment in mental health settings. However, to the best of our knowledge, no previous study has qualitatively explored youth mental health providers' perceptions of neuropsychological assessment services. A more in‐depth understanding of the perceived advantages and barriers associated with neuropsychological assessment in youth mental health settings is critical to better inform policy, practice and service uptake. Thus, the aim of this study was to qualitatively explore clinicians' views about neuropsychological assessments for youth with mental health concerns. Methods A single open‐ended qualitative question, included as part of an anonymous cross‐sectional online survey, was completed by clinicians (N = 206) treating or assessing adolescents and young adults within Australian primary care mental health centres ( headspace ). Responses were analysed using an inductive approach to thematic analysis. Results Five main themes were identified. Clinicians (a) identified barriers to accessing neuropsychological assessments (53%), (b) indicated a range of mixed outcomes following neuropsychological assessment (39%), (c) highlighted a need for neuropsychological assessments (22%), (d) reported a lack of awareness about this resource (10%) and (e) described practice issues associated with neuropsychological services (4%). Conclusion This study uncovered perceived factors contributing to reduced access to neuropsychological assessment in Australian youth mental health settings. Given potential adverse outcomes resulting from this clinical service gap, efforts should be made to address factors contributing to poorer access, thereby mitigating the impact of poor access on the management of mental illness in youth. Several strategies, including funding neuropsychological assessments, are discussed.