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Objective: The present study explored Swedish clinical psychologists' attitudes and practices of informing patients about possible negative effects of psychological treatment. Method: An anonymous online survey with closed and open-ended questions was distributed via Facebook and two mailing lists. In total, 320 clinical psychologists (age M = 38.6, SD = 10.3; 76% women; 77.3% Cognitive Behavior Therapy) completed the survey. Responses were analyzed using χ2, binominal regression analysis, and thematic analysis. Results: No significant associations were identified between demographic variables selected a priori and informing patients about possible negative effects, i.e., years in practice, therapeutic orientation, age, and male gender. The thematic analysis resulted in several positive (e.g., creating realistic expectations of treatment and increasing resilience) and negative attitudes (e.g., causing excessive worry) of sharing patients with information about possible negative effects. It also revealed various factors that prevent an open discussion on the topic, despite being seen as important. Conclusion: The need to offer patients information about possible negative effects should be included in ethical guidelines, codes of conduct, and taught during clinical training. Lack of knowledge, fear, lack of time, and patient characteristics however seem to prevent therapists from discussing the issue during the informed consent procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a supervisor (a Principal Clinical Psychologist) and a supervisee (an Assistant Psychologist) will reference the experience of the implementing and reflecting on three frameworks to support anti-oppressive supervision. The three frameworks are, the Broaching Technique (Jones et al., 2019), the Social Identity Map (Jacobson & Mustafa, 2019), and the Seven-Eyed Supervision Model (Hawkins & McMahon, 2020). This paper shares their experiential reflections on this practice and provides guidance and recommended strategies to support other supervisors/supervisees in anti-oppressive supervision practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research component of doctoral training in clinical psychology can evoke a range of emotions, from excitement to apprehension, often influenced by prior experience and the nature of the research undertaken. This article shares reflections on conducting a feasibility randomised controlled trial (RCT) as part of a clinical psychology thesis, offering practical advice to ease the process for trainee clinical psychologists considering a clinical trial for their doctoral research. Key insights include the importance of selecting experienced supervisors, starting early, deciding between a feasibility or full-scale trial, determining recruitment sources, staying organised, building positive relationships with researchers and participants, and choosing a topic of genuine interest. Conducting a clinical trial during clinical psychology training, despite its challenges, can provide invaluable experience and skills, fostering a deeper understanding of clinical research methodologies and their practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mentoring schemes for aspiring BAME clinical psychologists, are being introduced in universities across the UK. The aim of this study was to conduct a mixed-methods prospective evaluation of the 2021/2022 mentoring scheme. Mentees (n = 8) and mentors (n = 20) completed an online questionnaire at the beginning (T1) and end (T2) of the 2021/2022 mentoring scheme. Quantitative data was analysed descriptively and using a mixed ANOVA. Content analysis was conducted on qualitative contributions. Mentees reported having the confidence and knowledge necessary to apply for the clinical psychology doctorate and assessments of mentoring skills were high. Participants provided their goals and expectations for the scheme, as well as constructive feedback. The findings suggest an overall modest, positive impact of the mentoring scheme. Wider implications include ensuring mentoring pairs establish regular contact and providing additional support for mentors to mitigate self-doubt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perceived stigma (PS) adversely impacts psychosocial and disease outcomes in patients with chronic liver diseases (CLD), and those with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) may be at risk for PS given inaccurate assumptions about the origin of their diagnosis. The aims of the current study are to describe the frequency of PS in patients with AIH, compare rates of PS in AIH to rates of PS in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and CLD, and examine demographic correlates of PS. 262 adults with AIH (95% female, Mage = 51.53 years) completed online questionnaires on demographics, disease information, and PS. 54–68% reported PS with themes of selective disclosure, non-disclosure, or hiding diagnosis. PS was higher in those with AIH compared to those with PBC, but lower than those with various CLD. Age was inversely related to PS. Given the results, provider screening of PS and integration of clinical health psychologists may be helpful for identifying PS in patients with AIH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Psychological formulation is a key competency for clinical psychologists. However, there is a lack of consensus regarding the key components and processes of formulation that are hypothesized to contribute to poor reliability of formulations. The aim of this study was to develop consensus on the essential components of a formulation to inform training for clinical psychologists and best practice guidelines. Methods: A Delphi methodology was used. Items were generated from the literature and discussed and refined with a panel of experts (n = 10). In round one, 110 clinical psychologists in the United Kingdom rated the importance of components of formulation via an online questionnaire. Criteria for consensus were applied and statements were rerated in round two if consensus was not achieved. Results: Consensus was achieved on 30 items, with 18 statements regarding components of a formulation and 12 statements regarding formulation process. Items that clinicians agreed upon emphasized the importance of integrating sociocultural, biological, strengths and personal meaning alongside well- established theoretical frameworks. Consensus was not reached on 20 items, including whether a formulation should be parsimonious or adhere to a model. Conclusion: Our findings provide mixed evidence regarding consensus on the key components of formulation. There was an agreement that formulation should be client- led and incorporate strengths and sociocultural factors. Further research should explore client perspectives on the key components of formulation and how these compare to the clinicians' perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Art therapy allows people to express feelings about any subject through creative work. It is beneficial for people who feel out of touch with their emotions. In Ghana, little is known about art therapy as a therapeutic tool. Herbal treatment, biomedical and faith healing practices are the most common treatment options for mental health. This research aimed to provide new insights into clinical psychologists on their knowledge and use of art therapy in treating clients and identified the enablers and barriers in this therapeutic intervention. Method: Twenty-one clinical psychologists were sampled using the snowball sampling method. They were interviewed over the phone using a semi-structured interview guide which was developed based on the predefined study objectives. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data resulting in three central thematic areas. Results: Twelve of the clinical psychologists were females and eight were male, with an age range between twenty-five to fifty years. The major themes identified were knowledge of art therapy, the use of art therapy and enablers and barriers in using art therapy. The study revealed that clinical psychologists had limited knowledge of art therapy mainly due to lack of training. With the use of art therapy, the participants revealed that they had used some form of art therapy before and they perceived art therapy to be effective on their clients however, they demonstrated low confidence in using it. Practitioner training and the availability of art therapy-related resources were identified as both facilitators and hindrances to the use of art therapy. Conclusion: Clinical Psychologists are cognizant of art therapy albeit they have limited knowledge. Therefore, training in how to use art therapy and the availability of resources to facilitate art therapy can be provided for Clinical Psychologists by the Ghana Mental Health Authority. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article shares the reflections on carrying out a cross-cultural cognitive rehabilitation intervention with a person not proficient in English. The aim is to highlight some of the challenges experienced throughout the process, along with lessons learnt with regards to improving accessibility for these specific populations. The reflections are shared from the perspective of an Assistant Psychologist (AS), who carried out the intervention under the supervision of a qualified Clinical Psychologist (NZ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Some attorneys claim that to adequately cross examine neuropsychological experts, they require direct access to protected test information, rather than having test data analyzed by retained neuropsychological experts. The objective of this paper is to critically examine whether direct access to protected test materials by attorneys is indeed necessary, appropriate, and useful to the trier-of-fact. Method: Examples are provided of the types of nonscientific misinformation that occur when attorneys, who lack adequate training in testing, attempt to independently interpret neurocognitive/psychological test data. Results: Release of protected test information to attorneys introduces inaccurate information to the trier of fact, and jeopardizes future use of tests because non-psychologists are not ethically bound to protect test content. Conclusion: The public policy underlying the right of attorneys to seek possibly relevant documents should not outweigh the damage to tests and resultant misinformation that arise when protected test information is released directly to attorneys. The solution recommended by neuropsychological/psychological organizations and test publishers is to have protected psychological test information exchanged directly and only between clinical psychologist/neuropsychologist experts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Creating a formulation is one of the key competencies of a clinical psychologist and is understood to be important for guiding therapeutic input and understanding client distress. However, client experience of formulations can vary, with some reporting it is unhelpful and distressing. This novel review explores the experiences of clinicians and clients when creating a formulation, specifically the barriers and facilitators to collaborating on a formulation. This ultimately aims to improve client experience and engagement in formulation. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO and EMBASE was conducted using PRISMA guidelines. The protocol was registered on PROSPERO. This search was conducted using terms related to 'psychological formulation' and 'experience'. Nineteen qualitative papers met inclusion criteria and were appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. Findings that pertained to formulation were thematically synthesised. Results: Three analytical themes were identified: toleration of the formulation process—'a necessary evil', which highlights the potential emotional impact of formulation on the client and indicates the importance of responding to client readiness and expectations of formulation; development of the therapeutic relationship—'it's like a two way thing, isn't it?', which suggests that client empowerment, adapting to client needs and clinicians creating a safe and containing environment facilitated the formulation process; systemic factors—'walking a tightrope', which highlights the constraints of resources and team dynamics in therapists' ability to engage in collaborative formulation. Conclusion: Facilitators to a collaborative formulation include the following: simple formulations, thorough assessment and preparation for formulation, 'doing with' activities such as timelines and diagrams and working environments that include supportive colleagues and time for reflection and training. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines cinematographic observational studies of infants conducted by a loosely connected group of female psychologists and physicians in the USA from the 1930s to the 1960s. Largely forgotten today, these practitioners realized detailed and carefully planned research projects about infant behavior in a variety of settings—from the laboratory to the well-baby clinic. Although their studies were in conversation with better-known works, such as John Bowlby's research on attachment and René Spitz's films on institutionalized infants, they differed in a close examination of individual characteristics of babies and a critical attitude toward contemporary notions of 'pathological mothering'. In closely following the work of several researchers, including but not limited to pediatrician Margaret Fries (1898–1987), the clinical psychologist Sibylle Escalona (1915–96) and her team members—child psychiatrist Mary Leitch (1914–?) and avant-garde photographer Ellen Auerbach (1906–2004)—and psychologist Anneliese Korner (1918–2010), I argue that their cinematographic works shed a more nuanced light on the landscape of infant research and child psychiatry in the mid 20th century, and open a way for alternative readings of gender, psychoanalysis, and scientific observation at that time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Community Mental Health Transformation in England has introduced a range of opportunities for clinical psychologists. Whilst the focus to increase delivery of evidence based psychological therapies requires associated expertise to deliver, train and supervise these therapies, the opportunities go beyond therapy. Genuine transformation relies on local systems moving away from a bio-medically dominated approach to mental health service delivery, to provision underpinned by a more nuanced bio-psychosocial understanding of wellbeing and personal recovery. Clinical psychologists are ideally placed to support teams and services to offer true personalised care: offering expert advice to ensure care and support is formulation based and acknowledges the individual, systemic and structural elements that contribute to mental distress. Ultimately, the cultural change required to achieve the transformation described within national policy is dependent on leadership from those with appropriate expert knowledge and understanding of mental distress. Clinical psychologists should have these competences and can offer this leadership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We write this paper as DClinPsy staff who have implemented Association of Family Therapy and Systemic Practice (AFT) Foundation and Intermediate level accreditation embedded within DClinPsy training. We describe the context and landscape in which this has happened, the positives we believe it brings and the challenges we have faced along the way. We offer suggestions for courses on this journey of approaches, methods and techniques that we have found helpful, and reflect on our next steps. Within the paper we include the voice of a trainee who is completing this training currently and consider what clinical psychologists in the NHS can do to support trainees and courses in achieving systemic secondary accreditation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explains the context for secondary accreditations for clinical psychologists, with a focus on the recognised multi-professional marker for competence in CBT, BABCP accreditation. It describes what CBT accreditation is and how clinical psychologists can achieve it at any stage of their career. The meaning of secondary accreditation within our profession is explored and the debate is outlined in the hope that readers will gain greater clarity about the value and benefits of dual accreditation in CBT for clinical psychologists. The views of clinical psychologists at all stages of their career from trainees to service leads are presented. Recent learning and developments from dual accredited clinical psychology doctorates in England are shared including the voices of a recent graduate of a Level 2 accredited doctorate, to provide insights and guidance for other doctorate programmes currently developing Level 2 BABCP accreditation, their supervisors and their trainees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article we focus specifically on the issue of retention in the psychological professions workforce in England, with a particular focus on clinical psychologists. We focus both on available data which appears to show a stable or even improving situation in terms of the proportion of clinical psychologists leaving the NHS each year, and on anecdotal concerns which are frequently expressed about retention of clinical psychologists in NHS roles and the pull of private sector employment in particular. Noting the possible disconnect between these different sources of evidence, we go on to consider potential threats to retention in clinical psychology and to set out actions – in line with those suggested for other professional groups in the NHS – which different interested parties and stakeholders could take to maximise retention of clinical psychologists in NHS services. We highlight the need for improvements in the quality and granularity of available data to inform further debate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Rabia Moon Institute of Neurosciences in Karachi, Pakistan, offers comprehensive diagnostic, treatment, and rehabilitation facilities for patients with neurological disorders. Established in 2001 by the Rabia Moon family and a group of dedicated doctors and healthcare professionals, the institute provides care for patients with epilepsy, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, migraine, cerebral palsy, Parkinson's disease, and more. The facility operates from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and serves both welfare patients and those who can afford to pay. The institute also has a pharmacy, laboratory, and learning resource center, and plans to start a certificate course in neurology for general practitioners and family physicians. [Extracted from the article]

The Rabia Moon Institute of Neurosciences in Karachi, Pakistan, offers comprehensive diagnostic, treatment, and rehabilitation facilities for patients with neurological disorders. Established in 2001 by the family of Rabia Moon and a group of dedicated doctors, the institute provides care for patients with epilepsy, stroke, Alzheimer's disease, migraine, cerebral palsy, Parkinson's disease, and more. The facility operates from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and serves both welfare patients and those who can afford to pay. The institute also has a pharmacy, laboratory, and learning resource center, and relies on donations and philanthropy to fund its operations. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Chronic back pain is a widespread medical condition associated with high socioeconomic costs and increasing prevalence. Despite the advanced implementation of multidisciplinary approaches, providing a satisfactory treatment offer for those affected is often not possible. Exposure therapy (EXP) promises to be an effective and economical form of treatment and in a previous pilot study showed to be superior to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in reducing perceived limitations of movement. The current study aims to further compare the efficacy of both treatment methods and identify those patient groups that particularly benefit from EXP. Methods: The general objective of this randomized multicenter clinical trial (targeted N = 380) is to improve and expand the range of treatments available to patients with chronic back pain. As the primary objective of the study, two different psychological treatments (EXP and CBT) will be compared. The primary outcome measure is a clinically significant improvement in pain-related impairment, measured by the QPBDS, from baseline to 6-month follow-up. Secondary outcome measures are absolute changes and clinically significant improvements in variables coping, psychological flexibility, depressiveness, catastrophizing, exercise avoidance and fear of exercise, and intensity of pain. Participants are recruited in five psychological and medical centers in Germany and receive ten sessions of manualized therapy by trained licensed CBT therapists or clinical psychologists, who are currently in their post-gradual CBT training. Potential predictors of each treatment's efficacy will be explored with a focus on avoidance and coping behavior. Conclusion: This study will be the first RCT to compare CBT and EXP in chronic back pain in a large sample, including patients from different care structures due to psychological and medical recruitment centers. By identifying and exploring potential predictors of symptom improvement in each treatment group, this study will contribute to enable a more individualized assignment to treatment modalities and thus improves the care situation for chronic back pain and helps to create a customized treatment program for subgroups of pain patients. If our findings confirm EXP to be an efficacious and efficient treatment concept, it should gain more attention and be further disseminated. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05294081. Registered on 02 March 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been long recognised that there is an increased gap between the application and acceptance rates of racialised applicants to clinical psychology training in the UK, relative to White applicants. In 2020, Health Education England released funding for UK training programmes to develop mentoring schemes for aspiring clinical psychologists from racialised groups. This study was undertaken to explore how such mentoring schemes might best support racialised applicants. Three focus groups, comprising a total of 24 racialised aspiring, trainee, and qualified clinical psychologists, were undertaken to gather views regarding how a mentoring scheme could support racialised aspiring clinical psychologists. Data was analysed utilising reflexive thematic analysis. Three themes were developed: 'Gaining Access to a White Profession – What's the White thing to say?' captured participants' views that mentoring schemes should support mentees to present themselves in ways that fit with what selection assessors will be looking for. 'A Safe Space to Explore the Impact of Racialisation' related to the importance of mentoring schemes creating safe opportunities to make sense of the impact of racism within their career. 'Troubling Whiteness' spoke to the importance of mentees being empowered to think with other racialised individuals about ways they could actively address Whiteness within the profession and services. The three themes have implications for the delivery and evaluation of mentoring schemes for racialised aspiring clinical psychologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article draws on the experiences of clinical psychology training in the United Kingdom as discussed by three trainee clinical psychologists who identify as first-generation migrants. We reflect on the difficulties that accompany migration in the context of the Doctorate of Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) and offer recommendations for aspiring clinical psychologists, fellow trainees, training courses, colleagues, and supervisors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Interview quality is an important factor in the success of clinical trials for major depressive disorder (MDD). There is a substantial need to establish a reliable, remote clinical assessment interview system that can replace traditional in‐person interviews. Methods: We conducted a multicenter, randomized, unblinded, prospective, cross‐sectional study to assess the reliability of remote interviews in patients with MDD (UMIN000041839). Eligible patients with MDD underwent remote and in‐person sessions of the Montgomery‐Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) assessment performed by different raters within 28 days of providing consent. Patients were randomized to a group first assessed using in‐person interviews and secondarily using remote interviews (in‐person‐first group) or a group first assessed by remote interviews and secondarily using in‐person interviews (remote‐first group). Nineteen trained people (15 clinical psychologists, 3 nurses, and 1 clinical laboratory technologist) performed interviews. Results: Of 59 patients (in‐person‐first group, n = 32; remote‐first group, n = 27) who completed both remote and in‐person interviews, 51% (n = 30) were women; the mean age was 41.6 years (range, 21–64 years). There was a strong association between remote and in‐person MADRS scores (r = 0.891, kappa = 0.901). An overall intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.886 (95% confidence interval, 0.877–0.952) indicated good consistency between MADRS scores in remote and in‐person interviews. The ICC decreased as the severity of depression increased. Conclusion: Our results suggest remote interviews are a feasible alternative option to in‐person interviews in assessing symptom severity in MDD patients and could promote clinical trials in Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Children with hydrocephalus need regular monitoring following shunt surgery. A parent-completed assessment tool was used successfully in follow-up of postshunt hydrocephalus children in the recent pandemic. Methods The Ages & and Stages Questionnaires (ASQ) was sent via WhatsApp to parents of 40 postventriculoperitoneal (post-VP) shunt hydrocephalus children (7–57 months). Assessment was done by the parents/guardians in five domains over a period of 3 months. The completed questionnaires were analyzed and children with below the cutoff scores were called to the hospital for further evaluations and intervention if necessary. Result Questionnaires of 25 children were found completed and analyzed. There were 16 males and 18 children had aqueductal stenosis and 11 had meningomyelocele. Eighteen children with failed/borderline (11/7) ASQ scores were called for further evaluation and in all but one the scores obtained by the parents and clinical psychologists were found comparable. Two children needed hospital admissions for shunt revision and adjustment of anticonvulsant medicines. Conclusion The ASQ could be a useful tool, as parents can conduct the test at home and attend clinics in case of failed or borderline scores for further developmental assessment and/or intervention. This can be used as a routine monitoring tool in other clinical situations as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article historicizes a single stage in how the contemporary obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) category was built. Starting from the position that the two central components which make up OCD are 'obsessions' and 'compulsions', it illustrates how these concepts were taken apart by a small group of clinical psychologists working at the Institute of Psychiatry and the Maudsley psychiatric hospital in south London in the early 1970s, and why compulsions were investigated whilst obsessions were ignored. The decision to distinguish the previously undifferentiated symptoms is attributed to the commitment amongst psychologists at the Maudsley, most notably Stanley Rachman, to an empirical conception of science which emphasized observability. Two aspects of this are discussed. First, compulsions were deemed 'visible' through their correspondence with animal behaviour. Second, the symptom was seen as open to an experimental modification procedure which privileged visible outcomes. Ultimately, the article concludes that the historical division between 'obsessions' and 'compulsions', and the extensive investigation of the latter, has had substantial implications for the development of OCD as a category centred on visible behaviours and treated through behavioural means. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assist psychiatrists and clinical psychologists to assess their patients' psychological immune competence-based capacities and resources, depending on the mental health disorder diagnosis and the severity of the symptoms, the present study examined the psychometric properties of the Mental Health Test in a psychiatric sample. The research was carried out in four Hungarian healthcare facilities using a cross-sectional design. A total of 331 patients (140 male, 188 female, and 3 who preferred not to disclose their gender) completed the Mental Health Test, six well-being and mental health measures, and the Symptom Checklist-90. Psychiatrists and clinical psychologists reported the mental disorder status of each participant. Confirmatory factor analysis showed a good fit of the five-factor model to the data for the clinical version of the Mental Health Test (CFI = 0.972, RMSEA = 0.034). High internal consistency coefficients (α: 0.70–0.84; ω: 0.71–0.85) and excellent external and content validity were reported. The test is not sensitive to sociodemographic indicators but is sensitive to the correlates of well-being and to the symptoms of different types of mental disorders. Our preliminary findings suggest that the Mental Health Test is a suitable measure for assessing mental health capacities and resources in psychiatric samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the twenty years since the publication of the most widely used treatment manuals describing evidence-based therapies for eating disorders, there have been some substantial advances in the field. New methods of delivering treatments have been trialled and our perception of mental health has advanced; significant cultural changes have led to shifts in our societal landscape; and new technologies have allowed for more in-depth research to be conducted. As a result, our understanding of eating disorders and their treatment has broadened considerably. However, these new insights have not necessarily been translated into improved clinical practice. This paper highlights the changes we consider to have had the greatest impact on our work as experienced clinical psychologists in the field and suggests a list of new learnings that might be incorporated into clinical practice and research design. Plain English summary: In the field of eating disorders the most commonly used manualised treatments are nearly twenty years old. There has been much progress in the field since then in terms of technologies, understandings and social changes. In this paper, two experienced clinical psychologists describe some of the more recent developments in the field and highlight ways to incorporate the new learnings into clinical practice and research design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on psychologists' crucial role in promoting children's participation rights in decision-making, emphasizing the need for competence, critical awareness, and a rights-based approach. Topics include legal frameworks, key principles from the United Nations Conventions on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Rights of the Child, and participation principles for psychologists, culminating in the Lundy Model as a rights-based approach to child participation.

Family safeguarding services bring together multi-agency professionals to support children and families. The recruitment of clinical psychologists has led to the further development of psychological interventions to support families. Reflective parenting groups are an evidence-based intervention offered in family safeguarding services which aim to enhance parents' capacity to reflect on and mentalise their own and their child or children's thoughts, feelings, behaviours and intentions and thus better equip them to develop positive parenting practices and relationships with their children. The importance of evaluating services is recognised as best practice. This service evaluation aims to explore parents' experiences of reflective parenting (RP) groups and their perceptions of how useful the groups are in improving parental reflective functioning. The study employed a qualitative design and eight parents recruited through opportunistic sampling completed semi-structured interviews. Results were analysed using thematic analysis which yielded four main themes and eight subthemes. The four main themes identified were: (1) Benefits of RP groups, (2) Barriers to engaging in RP groups, (3) Different perspectives on online groups, (4) The importance of including fathers. The findings suggest that the groups are effective in improving parental reflective functioning and parents identified several benefits which are supported by the current literature. The study highlights areas of improvement which could enhance parents' experiences such as facilitating safe and collaborative spaces for parents to share their experiences, offering in person as well as online groups and actively engaging more fathers in the groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As clinical psychologists we are aware of the fragility of the self and the power of emotion to overwhelm rationality. As human beings, parents and grandparents, we are aware of the threat that the climate crisis poses to the future of our planet. This knowing is brought together here, and points us towards using our clinical skills in the service of mobilising behaviour change to face up to and mitigate the impending catastrophe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the following account, the author reflects on her experiences with individuals and families who have used Medically Assisted Reproduction (MAR) in order to create their families. The article covers some of the history of this constantly developing field, the legislation and regulations in the UK, and some of the inherent complexities. She suggests that Clinical Psychologists need to know more about this area, in order to respond appropriately to those they assess and treat, as in all specialties, issues relating to conception may have a relevance to the issues to be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patient satisfaction is associated with positive patient outcomes. This systematic review examined the evidence through 23 October 2023 from randomized trials of the effect of health care practitioner empathy on patient satisfaction. Background: Practitioners who deliver enhanced empathy may improve patient satisfaction with care. Patient satisfaction is associated with positive patient outcomes ranging from medication adherence to survival. Purpose: To evaluate the effect of health care practitioner empathy on patient satisfaction, using a systematic review of randomized trials. Data Sources: Ovid MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Scopus to 23 October 2023. Study Selection: Randomized trials published in any language that evaluated the effect of empathy on improving patient satisfaction as measured on a validated patient satisfaction scale. Data Extraction: Data extraction, risk-of-bias assessments, and strength-of-evidence assessments were done by 2 independent reviewers. Disagreements were resolved through consensus. Data Synthesis: Fourteen eligible randomized trials (80 practitioners; 1986 patients) were included in the analysis. Five studies had high risk of bias, and 9 had some concerns about bias. The trials were heterogeneous in terms of geographic locations (North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa), settings (hospital and primary care), practitioner types (family and hospital physicians, anesthesiologists, nurses, psychologists, and caregivers), and type of randomization (individual patient or clustered by practitioner). Although all trials suggested a positive change in patient satisfaction, inadequate reporting hindered the ability to draw definitive conclusions about the overall effect size. Limitations: Heterogeneity in the way that empathy was delivered and patient satisfaction was measured and incomplete reporting leading to concerns about the certainty of the underpinning evidence. Conclusion: Various empathy interventions have been studied to improve patient satisfaction. Development, testing, and reporting of high-quality studies within well-defined contexts is needed to optimize empathy interventions that increase patient satisfaction. Primary Funding Source: Stoneygate Trust. (PROSPERO: CRD42023412981) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Receiving information in the case of a positive or false-positive expanded newborn screening (ENBS) result for metabolic diseases is a stressful event. The availability of psychological support to families is crucial across the different communication steps and is recommended by different guidelines and position papers. However, more information is needed about the availability of psychological resources in the ENBS process. This national survey aimed to provide an overview of the availability of psychological resources for parents who received communication of positivity at the ENBS in the 23 Italian centers and how the support is provided to parents. An online survey was sent to the Heads of the ENBS centers asking about the availability of a clinical psychologist, their involvement in the ENBS process, and an estimation of parents receiving psychological support. More than 60% of the centers report having a clinical psychologist in the ENBS team; however, in more than 50% of cases, the psychologist does not participate in the consultation with parents (nor for the first consultation post-positivity or at confirmation of diagnosis). Furthermore, nearly 60% of the centers reported the experience of parental rejection of psychological sessions. Conclusion: There is a need for harmonization among the Italian ENBS centers concerning the availability of psychological resources and how these resources are provided to families. Parents' needs remained only partially fulfilled. What is Known: • Receiving communication of positivity at the ENBS can be highly stressful for parents and requires adequate psychological support. • The guidelines recommend psychological support for parents during the ENBS process. What is New: • Only 14/23 (60.9%) of Italian ENBS centers have a clinical psychologist within the team. • In half of the consultations with parents receiving communication of positivity, the clinical psychologist is never involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the UK Stroke Forum 2023 conference that was held at ICC Birmingham in Birmingham, UK from December 4-6, 2023. Topics discussed include lived experience, equality, diversity, inclusivity in stroke research, care and rehabilitation, post-stroke sex, intimacy and relationships, updated NICE and ICSWP stroke guidelines, and neuropsychological support after stroke. Attendees included various clinicians such as Steven Green, Catherine E.L. Ford and Eirini Kontou.

Background: In mental health care, the number of patients with diverse cultural backgrounds is growing. Nevertheless, evaluated training programs for transcultural competence are missing. Barriers for engaging in transcultural therapy can be identified in patients as well as in therapists. Besides language barriers, clinical psychologists report insecurities, for example, fear of additional expenses when involving a language mediator, ethical concerns such as power imbalances, or fear of lack of knowledge or incorrect handling when working with patients from other cultures. Divergent values and concepts of disease, prejudices, and stereotyping are also among the issues discussed as barriers to optimal psychotherapy care. The planned study aims to empower clinical psychologists to handle both their own as well as patients' barriers through a web-based training on transcultural competence. Methods: The training includes 6 modules, which are unlocked weekly. A total of N = 174 clinical psychologists are randomly assigned to two groups: the training group (TG) works through the complete training over 6 weeks, which includes a variety of practical exercises and self-reflections. In addition, participants receive weekly written feedback from a trained psychologist. The waitlist control group (WL) completes the training after the end of the waiting period (2 months after the end of the TG's training). The primary outcome is transcultural competence. Secondary outcomes consist of experiences in treating people from other cultures (number of patients, satisfaction and experience of competence in treatment, etc.). Data will be collected before and after the training as well as 2 and 6 months after the end of the training. Discussion: This randomized controlled trial tests the efficacy of and satisfaction with a web-based training on transcultural competence for German-speaking clinical psychologists. If validated successfully, the training can represent a time- and place-flexible training opportunity that could be integrated into the continuing education of clinical psychologists in the long term. Trial registration: DRKS00031105. Registered on 21 February 2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article provides an update on the activities and achievements of the Division of Clinical Psychology (DCP) in the UK over the past year. It acknowledges the contributions of various committee members, volunteers, and organizations within the DCP network. The article highlights the appointment of new members to the DCP executive committee, updates on sub-committees and branches, and the establishment of a new Primary Care Faculty. It also discusses the work of the Group of Trainers in Clinical Psychology (GTiCP) and announces plans for the 2024 DCP annual conference. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: Literature on trainee clinical psychologists' mental health has highlighted elevated levels of mental health difficulties and/or psychological distress and low levels of disclosure within the workplace. The current study aimed to explore (1) trainee experiences of disclosure and/or concealment of psychological distress during their training, (2) beliefs, assumptions or predictions related to disclosure and (3) responses to disclosure. Methods: A mixed‐methods strategy was employed; 165 trainee or recently qualified clinical psychologists took part in an online survey. Thirteen of these were interviewed. Descriptive statistics and a reflexive thematic analysis were conducted to analyse the quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. Results: The sample largely consisted of those who had disclosed distress. Beliefs related to negative judgement from others and feelings of anxiety and embarrassment were commonly endorsed responses within quantitative findings. Six main themes were constructed: (1) Diagnostic or psychological conceptualisations, (2) Worries about judgement complicate disclosure decisions, (3) Disclosure likelihood is determined by relationships, (4) Emotional support versus practical responses, (5) Desired changes that could increase disclosure and (6) Legacies of disclosure experiences. Conclusion: There is a need for training programme staff to prioritise emotional support, increase permission giving and enhance disclosure guidance. Further research including disclosure recipients is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a collection of abstracts from various presentations and studies related to the teaching and study of psychology. The abstracts cover a range of topics, including curriculum development, teaching approaches, and specific areas of study within psychology. The abstracts provide insight into the research and practices surrounding psychology education in different contexts. One study focused on embedding critical thinking skills in the psychology curriculum and found that explicit instruction and assessment methods were effective in developing these skills. Another study explored the knowledge and attitudes of clinical psychologists in Indonesia towards complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), highlighting the need for education on this topic. Additionally, a national survey in Indonesia revealed positive attitudes towards CAM, suggesting the potential for its integration into healthcare practice. [Extracted from the article]

This document is a symposium from the International Journal of Psychology discussing the successes and challenges of advancing community mental health in Europe. The symposium focuses on the RECOVER-E project, which aims to implement and evaluate a community-based service delivery model for recovery-oriented care in middle-income countries in Europe. The symposium includes presentations on the mental health care systems in Bulgaria, Croatia, and Romania, as well as the role of psychologists in community mental health teams. The goal is to share lessons learned and identify commonalities and differences for other countries considering similar approaches. Additionally, the document contains summaries of various research studies conducted in different countries, including studies on migrants' adjustment in Okinawa, Japan, attitudes of clinical psychologists in Japan towards public dissemination of psychological knowledge, a mental health project in Guatemala, subjective social capital and psychological distress among university students in Japan, a dating violence prevention program in Mexican rural communities, and the prediction of university students' sense of belonging to their country based on perceived opportunities. [Extracted from the article]

Research in clinical psychology to date is condemned for adhering to a colonial mentality. This is often an unavoidable consequence of operating within colonial academic structures and a scientific field historically informed by dominant Western narratives. The decolonisation of research encompasses the deconstruction of colonial approaches and generation of novel ideas. This qualitative study aims to capture perspectives on decolonising research in Doctorate of Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) programmes in the UK. Trainee clinical psychologists and staff members participated in focus groups and interviews. Data was thematically analysed. Participants discussed the meaning-making of the term 'decolonisation' within and outside the field, perceived individual and systemic barriers on decolonising research in clinical training and post-qualification, and practical steps scientist-practitioners can follow to embody the ethos of decolonisation in their research. Concluding, the findings reveal that decolonising DClinPsy research is a nuanced, complex, and emotive area. Future research should focus on disentangling language and terminology on 'decolonisation' in colonial structures and exploring the application of liberation practices within academic and healthcare settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an underrepresentation of individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds in the clinical psychology workforce. Research highlights that individuals from diverse ethnic communities (DEC) face many barriers in their journeys towards becoming a clinical psychologist, one of which involves being unable to access support and advice from those already in the profession. The Mind-to-Mind mentoring scheme is a positive initiative action to support aspiring psychologists with their individual career pathways. This project aimed to evaluate the first year of the mentoring scheme and offer recommendations on how the needs of mentees from DEC can be better met. Separate focus group discussions were carried out with four mentees, qualified mentors and trainee mentors to explore their experiences of the scheme. Recommendations for the scheme to better support individuals from DEC are provided, some of which may also be beneficial to other courses delivering similar initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The focus on how Whiteness and racism exclude racialised individuals from entering the profession, and adversely impact the experiences of racialised trainees, has led to an oversight of the experiences of racialised, specifically Black, qualified clinical psychologists. The doctoral research this article is based on aimed to address this gap by exploring Black Clinical Psychologists' (BCPs') experiences of racism and its discussion at work and in the profession. The accounts provided illustrate the ways in which Whiteness continues to permeate the professional context and remain a consistent feature of the lives of our Black colleagues following their transition into qualified life. Their testimony highlights the detrimental impact of Whiteness and racism on their emotional and psychological wellbeing, and willingness to remain within the profession and the NHS. In sharing their experiences, they remind us that, although the profession is keen to celebrate its efforts to tackle racism during the pre-qualification phase, the work of addressing Whiteness and becoming anti-racist is far from complete; our Black qualified colleagues continue to endure ongoing harm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thematic Apperception Test is a widely used projective measure of personality assessment. The present research adapted 20 of the most useful TAT cards according to Pakistani culture. The cards were modified by changing the dressing and facial features of the characters showed in the pictures. The cards were given to clinical psychologists for qualitative item analysis. After the final approval both the original and adapted TAT version were applied on 54 respondents (n=34 normal and n=20 psychological patients). Nine judges interpreted TAT protocols according to Bellack’s scoring system on original as well as adapted version. Validity of the adapted version was calculated through convergence between original and adapted versions of TAT cards. Reliability was estimated through percentage of agreement among judges by inter-rater method. The validity ranged from 29.83 for card 7GF to 42.40 for card 9 BM. The average reliability ranged from 9.73 for card 18 BM to 22.79 for card 1. Although the reliability and validity indices of the newly adapted cards were generally low due to the projective nature of TAT, still the adapted version of TAT can be used in clinical settings for diagnostic purposes as well for the assessment of normal population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Richard M. Billow's book, Selected Papers on Psychoanalysis and Group Process, is a collection of 20 chapters that delve into the author's experiences as a clinical psychologist and group therapist. The book focuses on the application of Bion's ideas in therapeutic groups and emphasizes the significance of the group therapist and the relational aspects in individual and group therapy. Billow also emphasizes the importance of finding meaning and transforming beta elements into emotional thinking. Dr. Tzahi Slonim, the book's editor, provides a helpful introduction that simplifies and clarifies Billow's key concepts. The book offers a unique blend of theory and practice, encouraging therapists to take creative and courageous approaches. In Haim Weinberg's book, "The Therapist's Emotional Survival: Dealing with the Pain of Exploring Trauma," the author explores the therapist's role in therapy and the value of authenticity and emotional connection in the therapeutic process. The book challenges traditional views on therapy, such as the therapist's neutrality and the role of interpretation. Weinberg also discusses attention-getting mechanisms and the therapist's need for recognition and admiration. Overall, the book encourages therapists to be brave and genuine in their work. [Extracted from the article]

The presumption that consciousness is fundamental is one that has been purported often in philosophy; less so in psychological science. Yet, the Cartesian interplay of body/mind holds implications for clinical and experimental psychologists alike, perhaps most importantly relevant to one’s starting assumptions about an ontological reality. There are various problems inherent in drawing an argument around the fundamental nature of consciousness (as opposed to say, another primary quality, including most types of monism) without rounding out one’s considerations from disciplinary input across metaphysics, theology, and logic. Outside of a purely positivist (physicalism) inherent presumption, multidisciplinary dialogue is needed, as to posit that the debate has been resolved in one manner or another leads to epistemic and logical problems, some of which I overview here. These disciplines are thus invoked to temper, contravene, and in some cases query Stephan Schwartz’s (2023) ideas posited in his paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is recommended that continued education in pain should be supported using information and communication technologies (ICTs), but there are gaps about the previous competencies of health professionals, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This study characterized the competencies of professionals in the Colombian Caribbean, the circumstances that favor and hinder the development of appropriate care, as well as the preferences, expectations and attitudes toward an educational intervention supported by ICTs. Methods: We used a qualitative, phenomenological approach, combining documentary review and data obtained through observation, an online survey and two focus groups involving 55 healthcare professionals (physicians, nurses and psychologists) of varying experience. For the analysis and integration of results, the Capacity, Opportunity, Motivation and Behavior model and the Theoretical Domains Framework were used as references. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist guided the reporting of this study. Results: Competency deficits were found regardless of the profession and experience, which are related to inadequacies in undergraduate and post-graduate training. Structural problems in Colombian society and healthcare service organization were also discovered, which were considered unmodifiable barriers and have been aggravated by the social, economic and health effects of the pandemic. The main modifiable barriers found were as follows: pain underestimation and under-treatment of older adults, as well as stereotypes regarding old age and pain, lack of knowledge of the psychosocial determinants of pain and of techniques for its assessment and treatment, overestimation of pharmacological treatment and failure to update pharmacological and non-pharmacological techniques. Conclusions: Recommendations for the design of the educational intervention were established as follows: favoring non-synchronous resources, facilitating synchronous activities of short duration, facilitating permanent access to information and resources and generating incentives for continuing education, such as certification, institutional recognition and encouraging popular recognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the supportive care needs of Australian melanoma patients and their caregivers to form the basis for improving services. Methods: General and melanoma-related supportive care needs in melanoma patients were measured using the SCNS-SF34 and SCNS-M12 respectively, whereas caregivers completed the SCNS-P&C. Patients also completed the MCQ-28 and FCRI-9, with all participants completing the QLQ-C30, DASS-21, and questions measuring utilisation and preference for supportive health services. Multivariable stepwise logistic regression was used to identify variables associated with unmet needs in melanoma patients. Results: A total of 56 early-stage patients, 100 advanced-stage patients, and 37 caregivers participated. At least three-quarters (≥ 75%) of each participant group reported at least one unmet need. Of the ten most reported unmet needs in each participant group, at least six (≥ 60%) were related to psychological and emotional well-being, with access to a psychologist the most desired service (> 25%). Fear of cancer recurrence was equally prevalent in both patient groups at a level indicative of need for intervention. Advanced-stage patients reported significantly (p < 0.05) more unmet psychological, physical and daily living, and sexuality needs, and significantly (p < 0.05) worse functioning than early-stage patients. Conclusion: Australian melanoma patients and caregivers report substantial unmet supportive care needs, particularly regarding their psychological and emotional well-being. Psychological and emotional well-being services, such as access to a clinical psychologist or implementation of patient-reported outcome measures, should be incorporated into routine melanoma care to address unmet patient and caregiver needs and improve well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cultural initiative, 'Becoming Trauma-Informed', was introduced into prisons in England and Wales from 2015 based on the work of American clinical psychologist, Dr Stephanie Covington, and as part of a more general trend towards the recognition and treatment of trauma-related conditions in the community and in mental health settings. Becoming trauma-informed training for Prison Officers in England and Wales was carried out in all 12 women's prisons during 2015–2017 and began in the long-term high-secure male estate from May 2018. The becoming trauma-informed work is based on considerable expertise, and a deep commitment by experts and practitioners to the development of trauma-informed practice. The authors welcome this 'trauma-turn' in thinking and practice and describe an extended pilot attempt to operationalise and measure its impact on the prison experience. The results were disappointing. By highlighting challenges, and exploring meaning-in-practice, we hope to contribute to the improvement of these initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Talking therapy can be highly effective when located outdoors. However, much of the previous research has centred around counselling and psychotherapy professions. This study aimed to explore the attitudes and experiences of clinical psychologists. Design: A cross-sectional survey was used to gain a broad perspective. Method: 215 participants completed the survey between August and October 2021. Efforts were made to ensure a varied and representative sample located across the UK and comprising mixed interests and experiences. The survey included measures of nature connection, experiences and attitudes towards outdoor practice, as well as variables underpinning The Theory of Planned Behaviour. Analysis included descriptive, correlational and multiple regression. Results: The findings outlined a marked increase in outdoor practice, with 34% (N = 74) having experienced outdoor working prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, whereas during the pandemic, this number had nearly doubled to 64% (N = 137). The majority held outdoor appointments in public parks (64%) and engaged in sitting (81%) or light walking (86%). The main reasons for offering therapy outdoors were client engagement and behavioural activation and the main barriers were confidentiality and access to outdoor spaces. Significant, positive predictors of outdoor practice included years qualified, nature connectedness, outdoor leisure time, instrumental attitudes, perceived norms, and self-efficacy. Conclusion: The findings reveal favourable attitudes and a growing community of clinical psychologists who practice outdoors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]