Open AccessAccentuate the Positive: Strengths-Based Therapy for Adolescents
Author(s) -
Eva Yuen,
Julie Sadhu,
Cynthia R. Pfeffer,
Barry Sarvet,
Daily Rs,
Jonathan Dowben,
Kylie Jackson,
John E. Schowalter,
Theodore Shapiro,
Dorothy Stubbe
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
adolescent psychiatry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2210-6774
pISSN - 2210-6766
DOI - 10.2174/2210676610666200225105529
Subject(s) - psychological intervention , modalities , treatment modality , psychiatry , mental health , medicine , strengths and weaknesses , therapeutic modalities , psychology , physical therapy , social psychology , social science , surgery , sociology
Purpose: The field of psychiatry has conventionally employed a medical model inwhich mental health disorders are diagnosed and treated. However, the evidence is amassingthat using a strengths-based approach that promotes wellness by engaging the patient’s assetsand interests may work in synergy with the medical model to promote recovery. This harmonizeswith the patient-centered care model that has been promoted by the Institute of Medicine. Methods: The article uses a clinical case to highlight the attributes of a strength-based modelin the psychiatric treatment of adolescents. Results: Outcome metrics from a number of studies have demonstrated enhanced youth andparent satisfaction and decreased use of hospital level of care with the implementation ofstrengths-based therapeutic modalities. Implications: Incorporating strengths-based interventions into conventional psychiatric practiceprovides a multi-faceted treatment approach that promotes recovery in children and adolescentswith psychiatric disorders.