Assessing the needs within the field of mental health is crucial for the effective allocation of resources and the development of tailored interventions. A well-functioning network of services plays a vital role in addressing the complexities of mental health issues, which range from mild anxiety to severe psychiatric disorders. Understanding the local context and the diverse needs of the population can enhance the delivery of mental health services and improve overall community well-being.

The primary objective of this study was to assess the needs related to mental health services in two Slovenian regions. We aimed to identify the challenges faced by individuals with mental health issues, their families, and different professionals involved in their care. Furthermore, we sought to evaluate the existing service networks and the gaps in mental health support, highlighting the necessity for a coordinated approach in addressing these challenges. By understanding, the specific needs and different services available in both regions, we aim to inform policymakers and stakeholders about potential improvements and strategies for enhancing mental health service network.

A semi-structured guided conversation was conducted with individuals and professionals working in mental health services. Coordinators that guided the conversation used specific questions. The data collected was analyzed to identify prevalent mental health issues within the local communities, potential solutions for the identified challenges, and the quality of collaboration among various stakeholders and services in the field of mental health.

Both regions reported significant mental health challenges, including high rates of anxiety, social isolation, and dual diagnoses among users. Common issues included long waiting times for services and stigma surrounding mental health. Service providers faced challenges like staff shortages, lack of training, insufficient time for treatment, and excessive administrative tasks. Both environments highlighted the need for improved inter-sectoral collaboration and community support programs. Systemic issues included lack of continuous funding, and inadequate living arrangements for people with mental health problems.

The findings underscore the importance of a coordinated approach to mental health services that fosters collaboration among stakeholders. A robust service network is essential for addressing the diverse needs of individuals with mental health challenges. Future efforts should emphasize enhancing multisectoral collaboration, clarifying roles within the network, and involving families in care processes. By prioritizing these elements, we can create a more supportive environment for those affected by mental health issues and facilitate their recovery.

None Declared

This study focused on one of the key components of mental healthcare provision: waiting lists in the community mental health service in County Louth and Meath, Ireland. The background context addresses the increasing demand for healthcare, shortage of resources, administrative hindrances, and the impact of waiting time on patient outcomes and satisfaction.

The objectives of the research were to Identify the primary causes of waiting lists in the community mental health services of County Louth and Meath in healthcare provider’s opinions and their views on potential solutions to reduce waiting lists and improve service delivery.

A mixed-methods approach was applied to conduct a comprehensive assessment of waiting list causes and potential solutions based on the combination of qualitative and quantitative methods. The main qualitative methods encompassed semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals and thematic analysis of their perceptions. The quantitative part of the study consisted of a survey distributed among members of the multidisciplinary mental health teams to collect information regarding perceptions, challenges, and potential solutions to the waiting list problems.

The study showed a variety of issues in the human factor of waiting lists, including insufficient staffing, high demand for services, administrative delays, limited resources, and communication failures between mental health and primary care teams. The mental healthcare professionals in County Louth and Meath voiced their apprehensions concerning patients’ wait times, resource scarcity, and the effect of these problems on the performance of services and patient outcomes. The general findings uncovered that 89.3% of respondents recognized insufficient staffing as the essential challenge in waiting list management, with 82.1% likewise featuring the higher demand for services as a significant variable adding to waiting lists.

Carefully assessing these issues is vital, and evidence-based steps are to be employed in managing the waiting lists in the community mental health services in County Louth and Meath, Ireland. Suggestions on increased staffing, resource investment, technology leveraging, process optimization, and enhanced communication between primary care and psychiatry are the essence of potential solutions. Undertaking these suggestions will enable mental health services to increase efficiency, provide a better patient experience, and subsequently improve overall service delivery while reducing the consequences of long waiting times.

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Mental Health (MH) in the workplace profoundly influences employee well-being. Burnout, Emotional Exhaustion (EE), depersonalization and diminished personal accomplishment are prevaling concerns among healthcare professionals. Left unchecked these facets can impinge on professionals’ MH and productivity.

This study explores the relationship between Emotional Intelligence (EI) and burnout among staff at Mount Carmel Hospital by assessing the degree of EE, depersonalisation and personal accomplishment before and after the EI training.

121 participants from four hospital wards were recruited. An anonymized questionnaire assessed EI, burnout and demographics including the Schutte Self Report EI Test and the Maslach Burnout Inventory. EI training was provided by professionals from within the hospital service. Post-training measures were reassessed to determine the training’s impact on improving the constructs of occupational burnout.

Gender analysis revealed higher EI scores among females (125.4±11.2) compared to males (117.0±13.9, p=0.026). EE was significantly higher among Maltese staff (20.4±8.3) compared to EU (17.2±4.8) and third-country nationals (12.3±4.9, p=0.027). Longer ward tenure (11-25 years) correlated with higher EE (32.7±6.8) compared to <1 year (16.6±8.1) or 1-5 years (17.6±5.7, p=0.0087). Negative correlations between EI and depersonalization (r=-0.32, p<0.01) emerged, indicating higher EI is associated with lower levels of depersonalization. A significant positive correlation between EI and personal achievement (r=0.54, p<0.01) suggested that higher EI is associated with higher levels of personal achievement. No correlation was found between EI and EE. Phase two revealed a significant difference in post-training EI. Other measures showed no significance; suggesting that other corporate fundational aspects impinge on employee MH.

The findings have important implications for MH professionals and organisations. The correlation between EI and burnout highlights the importance of promoting EI. Specific correlations need further testing, as the higher degree of EE in participants with higher scores of EI effects training development. Training programs focusing on EI should be incorporated into continous professional development. Significant variations in EE were observed among participants from different nationalities and those with varying years of experience in the ward; underscoring the importance of tailored interventions enhancing EI and mitigating burnout.

This study provides evidence for the correlation between EI and constructs of burnout among staff at Mount Carmel Hospital. Further corporational functional aspects potentially impact employees’ professionals outlook, perception and MH. Training programs aimed at enhancing EI can be used to reduce and mitigate burnout levels while improving well-being in the workplace.

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Risk assessment tools are used to enhance patient safety and promote quality care by limiting adverse outcomes to the greatest extent possible. In the Republic of Ireland, risk is monitored and regulated by the Mental Health Commission (MHC). A 2023 report by the MHC identified high numbers of recorded episodes of sexual assault on the acute inpatient unit in the Department of Psychiatry (DOP), University Hospital Waterford (UHW). Standard risk assessment tools are used in the DOP, however, these risk assessment tools failed to identify those who were at high risk of perpetrating a sexual assault.

The purpose of this research was to determine if there were risk assessment tools with a higher predictive value of identifying risk of sexual assault in an acute adult inpatient psychiatric setting. I also wanted to establish whether there were risk assessment tools available which assess risk of sexual assault in those with no history of perpetrated sexual assault.

This scoping review was prepared according to the PRISMA-Scr guidelines. Databases including Embase, Medline, CINAHL, UptoDate, TRIP, Cochrane and PsychINFO were searched. Keywords included inpatient, psychiatry, mental health, risk assessment tools, risk assessment scales, risk management, sexual assault and sexual offense. There was no limit on the date of publication or country of origin of articles. Only articles that used risk assessment tools on adults, who were inpatients in an acute psychiatric setting, in the English language were included. Only risk assessment tools that included assessment of risk of sexual assault were included.

A total of 15 articles were identified. There was a dearth of literate that compared risk assessment tools in this population with regards to risk of sexual assault. Most articles exploring risk of sexual assault focused on the study of those who were offenders and explored the risk of recidivism through the use of risk assessment tools.

Risk cannot be accurately predicted or eliminated. However, determining the most appropriate and comprehensive risk assessment tools, with the highest probability of identifying risk of sexual assault has the potential to enhance patient safety and improve the quality of care provided. There is a lack of risk assessment tools that assess sexual assault, especially in those with no prior history of perpetrating a sexual assault.

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Immediate physical assessment and management of patients on psychiatric wards who have been ligaturing is not standardised across the UK. There is little published research or literature on what is needed in terms of medical input and these incidents are usually initially assessed/managed by non-medical staff who are on site at the time of any such incidents. Within CWP NHS Foundation Trust, we have local guidelines (SOP 13 ‘The Management of ligatures in Mental Health and Learning Disability Services’) advising that any inpatient on the adult/older adult psychiatry wards who has ligatured should be seen by a doctor for a medical review,

To review a sample of recorded inpatient ligature incidents to see if Trust guidelines were being adhered to. We hope to use the findings from this audit to review the current guidelines and assess whether or not the additional medical reviews add to or change clinical management already instigated by ward staff. This may be more of an issue when medical staff cover is limited e.g. out of hours.

We accessed recorded ligaturing incidents on adult and older adult inpatient psychiatry wards across our Trust (accessing the ‘Datix’ reporting system) from the period starting 1st January 2022 to 31st May 2024. In total, there were 1127 and we took a sample of 112 picked using a random number generator. We reviewed the documentation from the incident to confirm how many had had a medical review after the incident, how long after the incident they were seen and whether or not the medical review had changed management following the incident.

Approximately 50% of patients had had a medical review post ligature incident. Approximately 4% of patient ligaturing (5/112) or 9% of those who received a medical review (5/55) had new management instigated as a result of the medic review. On review of these cases, there was limited medical input needed including application of steristrips for wound care and asking for ambulance transfer to acute hospital for CT head following seizure after ligaturing. There were no serious harm outcomes from the patients we reviewed in our sample.

Whether or not the we can review guidlines can be reviewed in light of the data is to be discussed following presentation of our results to the Trust. It appears that the initial managment plan, instigated by ward staff, has usually been appropriate and when additional input has been given by the medic on site at review, this has not been felt to have been critical in optimising patient safety. It would still be possible for a medic to review patients when felt by ward staff to be necessary even if guidelines were changed to suggest it was not mandatory for patients to be seen by a medic.

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Institute of Mental Health (IMH) is the only tertiary psychiatric hospital in Singapore and does not provide acute medical care. The on-call doctors, who are Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certified, respond to medical emergencies. Resuscitation skills are expected to decay with time when not used frequently and thus can pose an important challenge to maintain the doctors’ skills in settings with low volumes of code blue situations (Au et al. Resuscitation 2009;138:284-296). Our code blue aduits revealed significant competency gaps. IMH introduced a biannual resuscitation training program which includes a video demonstration of the optimal code blue response, hands-on session to review airway management techniques, operation of the defibrillators used in IMH, recognition and management of cardiac arrest rhythms including a pre-course ECG worksheet, familiarisation with the emergency drugs used in IMH, and a code blue drill. Due to COVID-19, the original course was shortened by removing the video demonstration and code blue drill, augmenting the home-based question paper with IMH-specific clinical vignettes.

We aimed to determine the common conditions resulting in code blue activations and whether the modified course was equivalent to the original course or ACLS in maintaining resuscitation currency and doctors’ confidence in responding to emergency scenarios.

Data was collected from June to August 2023 with consent via an electronic feedback form, to reduce non-response bias, from doctors who have responded to code blue activation in IMH. Qualitative justification on the responses were collated. Efforts were made to collect at least 25 responses from doctors with different levels of experience to minimize sampling bias. Surveys were anonymised, questions were vetted by 2 senior doctors and the survey was kept short to reduce response bias. Binary responses were tabulated for analysis and content analysis was done for feedback obtained.

Of 28 respondents, most were Psychiatry trainees (60.7%) with 1-2 years of experience working in IMH (36.7%) and more than 30 overnight duties (53.6%). The most commonly encountered emergency scenarios were hypotension (31%) and desaturation (20%). 92.9% of participants agreed that the modified course was useful for emergency scenarios faced. 53.6% of participants attended both the full and modified course, amongst whom, 60% reported that the modified course was equivalent to the full course. Only 50% felt that ACLS alone would suffice. Qualitative feedback obtained from participants reiterated that it was a context-specific and timely refresher course.

IMH doctors were satisfied with the modified resuscitation course and found it effective for frequently encountered emergency scenarios suggesting it as a valuable training adjunct in low code blue volume settings.

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Sedentary behavior, a leading cause of preventable mortality in developed nations, has been linked to a range of health problems, including cardiovascular disease and depression. While the benefits of leisure-time physical activity are well-established, the impact of sedentary behavior within the workplace, particularly in the healthcare sector, remains under-explored.

To study the relationship between sedentary behavior and mental health among.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among administrative staff at Farhat Hached University Hospital, Sousse, from March 2024 to June 2024. Data were collected through an anonymous, self-administered questionnaire written in French and distributed to the administrative staff of Farhat Hached University Hospital. It included six sections covering sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle habits, medical data, physical activity. Mental health, was assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS).

A total of 85 questionnaires were completed by administrative staff at Farhat Hached University Hospital. The majority of participants were female (sex ratio of 0.42), with an average age of 47.1 ± 8.2 years. Higher education levels were represented by 66 participants, and only 24 engaged in professional physical activity (<30 minutes per day). The average seniority at the institution was 19.91 ± 9.2 years. Administrative managers (25.9%) and administrative staff (20%) were the main professional categories. A significant proportion of participants exhibited signs of anxiety (25.8%) and depression (32.9%). The average perceived stress score was 17.75 ± 4.95. A significant association was found between anxiety and low levels of physical activity at work (p<0.001). However, no significant association was observed between perceived stress and physical activity at work.

Sedentary behavior at work is associated with a high prevalence of anxiety and depressive disorders among hospital administrative staff, highlighting the importance of promoting physical activity to improve mental health.

None Declared

According to the press service of the National Police of Ukraine, the number of domestic violence complaints in 2023 amounted to 291,000 statements from victims, which is almost 2 times more than in 2022. This trend determines the relevance of improving the model of comprehensive assistance to victims of domestic violence in Ukraine.

To develop and study the effectiveness of a comprehensive system of psychotherapy for women victims of domestic violence.

We have been examined 85 women victims of domestic violence during 2022-2023; 59 % of them were suffered from physical violence, 100 % – psychological violence, 6 % - economic violence. The following methods were used: Spielberger-Y.L.Khanin scale of reactive and personal anxiety (STAI), Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ) to determine the level of neuroticism, The Thomas–Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument (TKI), The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS).

The most common form of psychological violence against women was manipulation of the child’s interests during divorce proceedings, when men tried to insult and humiliate the authority of their wives, displaying aggressive forms of behavior. Most aggressors are characterized by emotional instability, irritability and cruelty. An aggravating psychological factor in conflicts in such families was the abuse of alcohol by men.

Women who suffered from domestic violence showed psychopathological personality changes not only in the form of victim character traits, but also in the form of aggression. Other women, on the contrary, were passive, conformist, and could not protect themselves. We used the following methods of psychotherapy: telephone and online counseling, psychological counseling, behavioral psychotherapy, systemic family psychotherapy, and rational psychotherapy. Psychological counseling solved the problems of resolving the difficulties of women victims by creating conditions for expressing strong emotions and helping them gain a sense of control over themselves. The comprehensive system of psychotherapy was aimed at assessing the psychotraumatic situation of a case of violence and forming new ideas about family life and developing new reactions and forms of behavior, forming victim personality traits in women.

The comprehensive system of psychotherapy for women victims of domestic violence was developed. As a result, 82% of women who received the indicated therapy experienced a decrease in manifestations of neurotic and somatoform syndromes, an increase in self-esteem, self-confidence, an improvement in the well-being of women, and an improvement in the psychological climate in these families.

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Mental illnesses are more common in women than men, and common illnesses such as anxiety and depression often begin in youth. Young women are disadvantaged both in terms of developing mental illnesses and in terms of gender-based discrimination. In this respect, protective, preventive, and empowering interventions targeting young women can be a good investment in terms of protecting their mental health. The youth period is the focus of protective and preventive interventions due to its nature as the initial period of frequently seen mental illnesses. Empowerment can reduce vulnerability during this period.

This study aimed to examine quantitatively and qualitatively whether the self-efficacy and attachment dimensions of the participating young women changed as a result of an empowerment-themed psychodrama group therapy.

The study has a longitudinal design with mix methods. After the local ethics committee approval, an announcement was made online, and the participants were included in the study after face-to-face meetings. Young women between 18 and 25 years who do not have a current psychiatric diagnosis, without suicide attempts and alcohol or substance use disorder, were recruited. Seventeen psychodrama sessions, each lasting three hours, were conducted. Role reversal, pairing, and mirror techniques were mainly used in the sessions. Warm-up games and group games were selected following the theme of empowerment. The General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSS) and Experiences in Close Relationships- Revised (ECR-R) were applied to the group members before starting the psychodrama sessions and after the sessions ended. In addition, the group members’ processes were investigated using qualitative methods after the sessions had ended.

Thirteen young women completed the psychodrama group sessions without more than 20% absence. Statistically significant increases were observed in the initiation (z=-2.310 p=0.021), resilience (z=-1.973 p=0.049), maintenance effort sub-dimensions (z=-2.355 p=0.019), and GSS total score (z=-2.357 p=0.018) of general self-efficacy after the intervention. When the sub-dimensions of ECR-R were evaluated, statistically significant decreases were observed in both avoidant attachment (z=-2.831 p=0.005) and anxious attachment (z=-2.864 p=0.004). Qualitative analysis showed themes of self-confidence, modeling, and universality.

Psychodrama group psychotherapy is suitable for developing self-efficacy and increasing secure attachment in young women as a preventive psychiatric intervention.

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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that modifies how a person perceives their surroundings, communicates and interacts with others. Autistic individuals often experience executive dysfunction, impaired social cognition, likewise differences in perception and information processing that can make it challenging to describe their internal sense of gender and gender-related needs. This case report presents the therapeutic journey of a young man diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome who entered dynamic supportive psychotherapy to address social and emotional challenges, likewise identity issues.

This poster aims to explore the clinical complexities arising from the presence of gender neurodivergence in individuals with ASD and its impact on their presentation, assessment and management. It seeks to highlight the unique challenges faced by autistic individuals in navigating gender identity, emphasizing the need for tailored clinical approaches.

A descriptive case report of a patient with ASD and gender neurodivergence, drawing on clinical records, patient interviews and psychotherapy sessions, psychological assessment and a non-systematic review of relevant literature.

A case report presentation of a 29-year-old man diagnosed with Asperger syndrome during adolescence. Due to adaptation difficulties and anxiety he started seeing a child’s psychiatrist and then transferred to an adult setting. He had intermittent visits to a community mental health service initially and, over the last two years, attended biweekly psychotherapy sessions at our hospital. Early psychological assessments revealed challenges with social interactions, confused and bizarre thinking patterns, identity diffusion, and a tendency for ruminative self-reflection. Treatment was interrupted at the end of 2023 due to a psychotic episode with dissociative phenomena, leading to the introduction of antipsychotics. After stabilization, psychotherapy resumed. During the course of therapy, conversations revealed a complex narrative around gender identity, including reflections on multiple genders and gender fluidity.

This case highlights the intersection of neurodiversity and gender identity, illustrating how individuals on the autism spectrum may experience and navigate gender in unique ways. The therapeutic process explored gender fluidity as an evolving self-concept, emphasizing the importance of inclusive approaches in psychotherapy. The report underscores the need for mental health professionals to be attuned to diverse expressions of gender identity within neurodivergent populations and advocates for flexible therapeutic frameworks that accommodate both neurodiversity and gender diversity.

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The science-to-practice gap in psychotherapy is a prominent topic of discussion that hinders the seamless integration of research findings into clinical settings. This divide seems, among others, to stem from conflicting views on the practical relevance of evidence-based mental health (EBMH).

This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing narratives that define the science-to-practice gap, develop an inclusive definition that reflects the complexities of this issue, and identify the factors influencing and strategies for mitigating this gap.

We conducted a systematic literature review with a qualitative, thematic synthesis approach including 131 articles. Themes were identified and synthesized to outline the science-to-practice gap. Additionally, we included a historical analysis to examine how the prevalence of certain codes and themes has evolved over time, reflecting shifts in the academic and clinical landscape.

Based on our findings, we refined the definition of the science-to-practice gap, capturing its multifaceted nature. Key themes influencing this gap include the educational background of psychotherapists, orientation towards specific psychotherapeutic schools, and personal inclinations of psychotherapists. Contextual factors such as institutional support and incentives for employing EBMH were also found to be positive influences. However, critiques regarding the rigidity of research methodologies and their applicability to diverse clinical scenarios were prevalent, with observable variances in thematic emphasis over the decades. Strategies identified for bridging the gap emphasized increased dialogue and collaboration between researchers and practitioners.

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This work sets the stage for future research that should prioritize the clinical perspective on evidence usefulness, broaden the research focus beyond intervention efficacy, and validate diverse methodologies. By proposing practice-focused research guidelines and emphasizing the need for robust dialogue between science and practice, we aim to enhance the applicability of research findings in clinical settings. Ultimately, our findings advocate for policies that facilitate the exchange of ideas and experiences, aiming to bridge the gap between scientific evidence and psychotherapeutic practice effectively.

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Psychotherapy, when supported by an appropriate set of techniques, has a high impact on the patient’s psychological well-being, self-knowledge and self-growth.

This study aimed to determine the clinical utility of the therapeutic tool “Kintsugi,” developed by the corresponding author, through two assessment phases.

To a total of 200 participants, aged between 18 and 70 years (M = 44.3, SD = 12.5), were administered a semistructured interview, the Hamilton Anxiety Scale, and the Échelle de Mesure des Manifestations du Bien-Être Psychologique. The assessments occurred before and after the application of the techinique, with an interval of about two months (approximately 4 to 6 sessions).

Findings indicate that, in the first moment of assessment, participants showed lower levels of psychological well-being (M = 78.0, SD = 15.0) and, consequently, more anxious symptoms (M = 32.0, SD = 9.0). After the use of the “Kintsugi” technique, regardless of the participant’s age or gender, an increase in psychological well-being (M = 96.5, SD = 12.0; F-test = 77.65, p < .001, η² = 0.28) and a decrease in anxiety (M = 21.0, SD = 7.0; F-test = 87.50, p < .001, η² = 0.31) were observed.

This therapeutic tool proves to be useful, beneficial, and clinically effective in a psychotherapeutic context, as its high contribution to the mental health of individuals becomes evident.

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High-performance players in sports, poker, or other competitive fields share traits that support them to excel under pressure. Exceptional players show mental resilience, staying focused, and adaptability skills in high-stress situations. However, many players struggle with consistency and discipline when emotional influence occurs over their routine and decision-making on tables. This work addresses common challenges for high-performance poker players and explores therapeutic techniques that improve decision-making and overall well-being.

High-performance poker players, particularly cash game players, encounter unique cognitive and emotional challenges due to high-stakes, financial volatility, and emotional dysregulation. This work addresses common therapeutic demands and multidisciplinary approaches to support high-performance poker players.

Players who received therapeutic support benefited from a combination of cognitive-behavioral strategies and positive psychology, particularly focusing on emotional regulation and goal-setting to enhance their sense of control, motivation, decision-making, psychological well-being, and overall performance. The therapeutic interventions specifically targeted cognitive distortions and behavioral patterns that undermine decision-making and contribute to emotional dysregulation. Techniques such as cognitive restructuring, mindfulness, and problem-solving skills training through deliberate practice, promoting practical tools to manage the unique cognitive and emotional challenges faced in poker.

The findings show that integrating cognitive-behavioral techniques into daily routines improves consistency, making daily strategies more automatic. Mental exercises like mindfulness and cognitive reframing strengthened skills while monitoring emotional states and helped players detect early signs of “tilt” and regulate emotions, diminishing impulsive decisions and heightening emotional responses. Addressing cognitive distortions, such as confirmation bias, through journaling and stress management techniques like deep breathing, helped players maintain composure under pressure. Therefore, these approaches assisted poker players in improving their adaptability skills without sacrificing consistency, leading to better performance and long-term success.

The cognitive and emotional demands of high-stakes poker require a comprehensive mental regulation approach. Combining cognitive-behavioral techniques, psychodynamic strategies, and mindfulness improves emotional stability, decision-making, and performance. Addressing cognitive distortions and using emotional regulation techniques help players avoid emotionally-driven decisions and maintain focus under pressure. By integrating these strategies into their routines, poker players can enhance consistency, optimize cognitive function, and achieve long-term success.

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Metacognitive Interpersonal Therapy (MIT) is a third wave orientation psychotherapy, based on the understanding that severe mental illness features a combination of poor capacity to make sense of mental states or metacognition, maladaptive interpersonal schemas and dysfunctional coping procedures.

MIT is gathering increasing empirical support in both individual and group formats, in adults and adolescence in populations with personality disorders and early psychosis (Dimaggio et al., 2017; Fioravanti et al., 2024; Gordon-King et al., 2018; Pasetto et al., 2022; Inchausti et al., 2022; Popolo et al., 2018).

The group format has been empirically tested in different countries (Italy, Spain and Norway).

Here we present the results of a series of RCT delivered in public mental health units (Ichausti et al., 2017; 2018; 2024; and Pinotti et al., 2024; Popolo et al., 2021; 2022).

Overall results show that MIT in group can be successfully delivered in the context of public mental health facilities with evidence for its efficacy, feasibility and effectiveness.

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Gilles de la Tourette Syndrome (GTS) is characterised by tics which appear as sudden, rapid, purposeless motor movements and vocalisations. In contrast to other movement disorders, temporary and purposeful suppressibility for a few minutes at a time can be achievable. However, this is ineffective over time. Apart from the physical consequences incurred, tics and their associated neuropsychiatric symptoms can diminish individual quality of life.

To present an adult single case study of the implementation of Habit Reversal Training (HbRT) for the treatment of a motor tic and to determine the clinical efficacy of the intervention over time (i.e., post-intervention and at a one-, three- and six-month follow-up).

A twenty-six-year-old male patient with a well-established diagnosis of GTS was referred to a tertiary-care neuropsychiatry outpatient clinic. Prior to the HbRT intervention, the patient had well-tolerated a continuous tetrabenazine prescription (25mg twice a day). His tic consisted of twitching of his nostrils and sudden and repeated head nods. The tic was reported to being experienced throughout the day and almost always being preceeded by a premonitory sensation. The patient’s history was unremarkable with respect to pre, peri-, and postnatal development. There was no family history of tics nor any other movement disorders. Formal measures revealed the following: Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation-Outcome Measure (11), Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (117), Autism-Spectrum Quotient (2), Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Scale (1), and Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (15).

By the end of a five-week fifty-minute one-to-one intervention window and at a one-, three-, and six-month follow-up appointment, the following main results are reported: [i] at post-intervention, a self-reported tic improvement score (measuring effectiveness of competing response on tic management since the first appointment) of eighty percent was achieved, [ii] self-reported tic improvement scores carried over to all three follow-up appointments, and [iii] week-to-week monitoring revealed that tic management improved by fifty percent by the third week of the intervention.

This study has accomplished its objectives of offering additional support for the implementation of HbRT for the treatment of a motor tic and to establish the clinical efficacy of the intervention over time. With these objectives in mind, TD and GTS continues to provide clinicians, clinician-scientists, and researchers with an abundance of possibilities for future research. For instance, on a clinical level, it is essential to further characterize variations in motor tic phenotype so that the factors that modify tic behaviour can be clarified. It would also be fascinating to longitudinally study and explore changes in tic frequency and intensity over time following a behavioural intervention such as HbRT.

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Supervision is recognized as having a vital role in the professional development of psychotherapists. The way it is implemented has a direct impact on the quality of the educator’s learning process, as well as on the quality of psychotherapy provided to clients. Supervision is a complex and dynamic practice, requiring supervisors to conceptualize the thoughts, feelings and behavior of their educators and the educator’s clients, as well as selective attention to the complexly layered interpersonal dynamics between clients, educators and themselves.

Emphasizing the possibility of the appearance of difficulties and their aspects and increasing awareness of these concepts can greatly help supervisors and educators in the formation of ways and approaches that can facilitate better communication and the formation of a more professional relationship as significantly influencing the main result of the quality of psychotherapy and the process of professional development.

During the training of mental health professionals, it is crucial to ensure that the supervision process is carried out according to a legal, ethical and competent approach, such as informed consent and a supervision contract, and it is necessary to take into account elements such as supervisor and educator competencies, awareness of the challenges of diversity and multiculturalism, personal and professional boundaries, multiple contexts of relationship between supervisor and educator, evaluation and feedback. Through the supervisor’s dilemmas, ambiguities in the perceptions of supervision educators, success is reflected through the analysis of personal contribution, of unconscious interpersonal and developmental dynamics, and access to one’s own limits.

The importance of clinical supervision is evidently recognized by almost all licensing boards and accrediting bodies for the mental health professions, requiring that educators receive psychotherapeutic, clinical supervision as part of their training, and ongoing supervision is often necessary to maintain professional licensure. An integrative approach of incorporating innovative research results, as well as consolidating them with already established factors, is key in leading psychotherapeutic training, research, supervision, as well as the client’s treatment itself towards increased effectiveness. A significant contribution to the literature would be enabled by future research dealing with issues of difficulties in supervision through the prism of educators.

This paper focuses on understanding the significance of the supervision process thorugh the theoretical perspective, approaching the concept of difficulties by the prism of supervisors and educators, and the practical implications of successful supervision.

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In Kyrgyzstan and other Central Asian countries, there has been a surge in advertisements for psychological services from underqualified practitioners. These individuals, often with only short-term training, market themselves as professionals while the cost of their services has risen dramatically. Vulnerable populations may be exploited financially without receiving effective care, leading to worsened outcomes.

This paper explores how the rise in underqualified practitioners and unchecked price increases for psychological services in Kyrgyzstan lead to harmful mental health outcomes. It also compares the regulatory frameworks in neighboring countries, highlighting Kazakhstan’s more structured approach.

This study utilizes a comparative analysis of the regulatory frameworks for psychological services in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan. Data is sourced from governmental reports, academic studies, and analyses of online advertisements for psychological services. The focus is on licensing systems, training requirements, and the impact of rising consultation prices.

Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan lack adequate regulatory systems for licensing psychologists. The surge in online advertisements by underqualified practitioners has flooded the market, with many offering their services at increasingly inflated rates. These individuals often charge exorbitant prices while lacking the proper training, exacerbating mental health challenges for vulnerable populations. In contrast, Kazakhstan has introduced a structured National Qualifications Framework (SQF), which ensures that psychological services are provided by properly trained and certified professionals.

The unchecked rise of advertisements by unqualified therapists and the unlimited escalation of consultation fees in Kyrgyzstan and neighboring countries pose serious risks to public mental health. Without proper licensing and price regulation, individuals seeking help may face harmful consequences. Adopting a regulatory system similar to Kazakhstan’s, with strict licensing and certification requirements, would help ensure that psychological services are both safe and affordable. Such reforms are essential to protect the public from the exploitation and risks posed by untrained “therapists.”

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It was demonstrated in the number of studies that patients with bipolar affective disorder (BD) at the initial stage of the disease are characterized by the high level of self-stigmatization (Latalova K., Kamaradova D., Prasko J., 2014; Solokhina T.A., Oshevsky D.S., Barkhatova A.N., et al., 2023). However, relationship of patients’ self-stigmatization with their psychopathological symptoms wasn’t analyzed, what determined the theoretical and practical significance of our study.

To reveal correlations between psychopathological symptoms and self-stigmatization of patients with BD at the initial stage of the disease and to work out the integrated approach to their psychosocial treatment.

Questionnaire for assessing the phenomenon of self-stigmatization of mentally ill people (Mikhailova et al., 2005), SCL-90-R were used. A group of 17 patients (12 women and 5 men) with diagnosis of bipolar affective disorder (BD, F31.xxx according to ICD-10) was examined. The average age of the patients was 25.52±4.55 years. The duration of the disorder varied within 0.5 -3 years.

Patients with BD demonstrated high overall level of self-stigmatization (1.22±0.73 points). This parameter was significantly higher than average values. As a result of correlation analysis, multiple dependable (p<0.01) moderate relationships between SCL-90-R indicators and parameters of several scales of the self-stigmatization questionnaire were established. So, perception of changes associated with the disease as irreversible, depriving opportunities in various spheres of life (scales «Overestimation of self-realization», «Overestimation of internal activity») leaded to somatization of patients and the formation of hypochondriac experiences (SOM, r=0.58 and r=0.54, respectively). In turn, this reduces self-esteem and causes an increase in the overall level of experienced distress (GSI, r=0.61 and r=0.53, respectively). Self-doubt, the expectation of a negative attitude towards oneself (the scale «De-identification from others in the social sphere») leads to increased anxiety (ANX, r=0.64), hostility (HOS, r=0.53), vulnerability in communication and restriction of social contacts (INT, r=0.51).

The obtained results permitted to work out proposals on psychosocial treatment of patients with BD at the initial stage of the disease. It is necessary to carry out psychoeducation programs as well as trainings aimed at forming a positive self-perception, activating personal resources, increasing communicative competence and maintaining social interaction.

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Some people with a diagnosis of psychosis wish to minimize or avoid medications. A literture exists that intensive psychosocial treatment can mitigate psychotic symptoms with lilttle or no medication being used.

We provided services to people who wishers to reduce or avoid medications within the context of a private psychiatric practice and wanted to assess their outcomes. We wondered what factors led to success.

We report on a series of 62 patients, age 18 years or older, who engaged in psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle management over at least six months, aiming to minimize or eliminate medication. An additional 217 patients who consulted us did not continue for six months. An anonymous, matched comparison group of 62 patients of the same age, socioeconomic status, diagnosis, and severity of illness was generated from electronic health records at another clinic where LMM also worked. We used the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale, the MADRS depression scales, and the Clinical Global Inventory. Narrative interviews generated qualitative data. We compared patients who met their goals to those who did not.

Forty-one people eliminated medication. Another 16 managed well on low-dose medications. Five patients had psychotic episodes that led them to return to higher levels of medication. This group functioned at higher levels than the comparison population with much lower doses of medications. The five readmissions to hospital were signnificantly lower than the number of readmissions in the comparison and the control groups. The cost for one year of care was higher for our people; the costs over subsequent years were less related to fewer hospitalizations, crises, and diminished suicidality.

The results suggest the need for individualized client-centered psychosocial approaches that build upon the person’s previous successes, enroll family and friends in a community effort, and collaborate with those communities to apply those approaches desired by the people themselves. In this dialogical approach to psychosis, lived experience is granted full ontological reality, which appears to facilitate recovery. Lifestyle management and embeddedness in a community facilitate recovery.

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Wisdom is a capacity which is needed to cope with difficult situations in life. Wisdom can be trained like other capacities. Wisdom psychotherapy has been developed as a method of cognitive behavior therapy to help patients who are stuck in negative life experiences, or confronted with unsolvabale dilemmas.

Test the efficacy of wisdom psychotherapy in patients with adjustment disorders.

patients with adjustment disorders (>18 on the ADNM8 scale) were randomly assigned to group wisdom therapy (WT: N=114), or group behavioral activation therapy (BA: N=109). Additionally a matched group of patients was build, which were not included in any study procedures but underwent routine treatment only (RT: N=114). Wisdom was measured with the Multidimensional Wisdom Competency Scale (MWC15).

There was an increase on the MWC15 of 5.3 in the wisdom group as compared to 0.4 in the activation group and 0,2 in the routine group. This is statically sigificant in the pre-post comparison and in the time/goup interaction (F4,42, p=0,13). The ADNM8 score, the SCL90 GSI, the BDI score decreased, with a trend for more side effects in the wisdom than the activity group.

The results confirm that wisdom psychotherapy can make a difference in the improvement of wisdom capacities. Wisdom therapy, different from other psychotherapies, does not aim at increasing hedonic or symptom free wellbeing but rather eudaimonic wellbeing in order to teach patients to live a decent and successful life.

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