Pioneering mental health care in GP clinic

A pilot project in Manawatu, New Zealand, involves situating psychologists in clinics with general practitioners (GP) to prevent an escalation of a patient’s mental health issue.

If for example a patient indicates that he or she is suffering from anxiety, depression or other mental health problems, the doctor can arrange for immediate and free consultative support with the on-site psychologist, including follow-on appointments.

This project recognizes the interdependence between mental and physical health.

A type of talk therapy called FACT (Focused Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) is used by the psychologists to get the patient to communicate, identify the problem and come up with ways of dealing with the issue.

GPS often resort to medication to help patients with mental health issues as they don’t have the time to delve into the problem and discuss ways of alleviating it.

Referrals to mental health specialists involve long wait times.

Situating psychologists within the physical space of a GP clinic can help to normalize mental health problems and the fear of seeking out a professional in this area.

FACT therapy can be a productive intervention for patients. Source.