Full Description
This book provides case studies, model letters of introduction, suggestions for follow-up communication, and checklists of medical issues to consider when collaborating with medical colleagues.
While it is common knowledge that physical illness affects mental wellbeing and vice versa, there has been a surprising lack of cooperation between psychotherapists and MDs in serving patients' needs. The Collaborative Psychotherapist provides step-by-step guidance on how psychotherapists can work with their medical colleagues on a routine basis.
The authors interview four veteran therapists and one medical doctor who provide valuable insider knowledge of how to collaborate successfully. The volume authors also provide advice on how therapists can extend their skills to collaborate more intensively on complex cases that may involve specialists. Case studies, model letters of introduction, suggestions for follow-up communication, and checklists of medical issues to consider when evaluating patients contribute further to illustrating creative and practical ways to work with medical professionals and improve patient care.
Contents
Acknowledgments
Introduction: Becoming a Collaborative Psychotherapist
I. Routine Collaboration
The Hidden Benefits of Collaboration
Primary Care: Where the Patients Are
The Nuts and Bolts of Routine Collaboration
II. Intensive Collaboration
Challenging Patients, Challenging Interactions
Strategies and Techniques in Intensive Collaboration
Colocating With Medical Professionals: A New Model of Integrated Care
III. Clinical Examples of Collaboration
Too Many Stressors: A Case of Major Depression at Midlife
The Underachieving Son: A Case of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
The Best Little Girl in the World: A Case of Anorexia Nervosa
A Man Loses His Identity: A Complex Case of Chronic Pain, Disability, and Depression
IV. Collaboration in the Real World: Interviews With Collaborative Health Care Professionals
Collaborative Private Practice
Collaborative Primary Care Medical Practice
Collaborative Managed Care
Collaborative Primary Care Mental Health
Collaborative Crisis Services
Afterword
Appendices
Medical Problems Associated With Psychiatric Symptoms
Psychiatric Side Effects of Commonly Used Medications
The Collaborative Psychotherapist's Toolbox
Additional Resources
Questions to Elicit the Patient's and Family's Story
References
Index
About the Authors
