Developing a Mental Health Resource for Consumers

Abstract

Little is known about how consumers select mental health providers. In the literature there is an absence of information to assist consumers and referral agencies including general practitioners, in making informed choices. This paper reports the research process undertaken to develop such a resource. Interviews were conducted with representatives from a variety of groups identified by consumers and providers as supplying mental health services, including: general practitioners, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, Relationships Australia (NSW), Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), postnatal depression self-help groups, Lifeline, the Gay and Lesbian Counselling Service of NSW, spiritual healers, and, consumer consultants. The interviews covered issues of cost, type of services provided, goals of management, limitations of therapy, consumer information about the process, sessions, therapist credentials, training, background and experience, professional and personal development, quality assurance, research, referral, access, and confidentiality. Indicators for ascertaining effectiveness of the therapist's work were also delineated. Although there was a great deal of similarity in views concerning the nature of therapy held by a range of providers of mental health services, differences of approach did emerge that need to be brought to the awareness of consumers. Comparing responses of mental health providers to the same questions allows other issues such as priorities and access to be gauged by comparing these responses. The strength of this approach is that it allows the presentation of information in a manner that allows consumers to make comparisons and choices based on information obtained in a context similar to the therapeutic situation.