The Implementation of Psychological Interventions in First Episode of Psychosis Services in Chile.
Poster C101, Wednesday, October%2010, 11:30%20am%20-%201:00%20pm, Essex%20Ballroom
Carmen Paz Castañeda1, Cristián Mena1, Alfonso González1,2, Rubén Nachar1,2, Matías Monje1, Bárbara Iruretagoyena3, Juan Undurraga1,4, Carlos Gallardo1,5; 1Early Intervention Program. J Horwitz Psychiatric Institute, 2Universidad Finis Terrae, 3Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine. Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, 4Department of Neurology and Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Clínica Alemana Universidad del Desarrollo, 5Psychological Clinic Universidad Diego Portales
Psychological interventions are a crucial element of a more integrative and comprehensive approach to the treatment for young people experiencing a first episode of psychosis (FEP). These interventions contribute to a better long term functioning of these patients. However, their implementation in the Chilean public health system faces challenges: the scarcity of cognitive behavioral (CBT) trained professionals and the preponderance of a biomedical approach, especially in tertiary care institutions. Following international guidelines, the current Chilean Clinical Guideline for FEP (2017) recommends the use of CBT but does not establish specific guides for its implementation. As a means to bridging the gap in psychological treatment, we proposed and developed an alternative psychological intervention model. Our model shifts the focus to a more humanistic perspective, based on emphasizing the role of the therapist and the attitude towards psychosis from the initial stages. Additionally, a psychodynamic understanding of psychosis and the use of different techniques and approaches, such as psychoeducation, family meetings and CBT, tailored to the specific needs of each patient. The resultant model pays special attention to the emotional and functional impact of psychotic symptoms. Validation of the emotional experience of the patient provides the basis for the therapeutic relationship. We propose that this approach contributes to the recovery of the patient and could be used by any professional working with young people with a FEP, because it is more flexible, it is focused on the person beyond her symptoms, and lastly, it is in tune to the local reality.
Topic Area: Service System Development and Reform