Inpatient psychologists would also possess a more in-depth knowledge of the specific treatment the patient was undergoing, and be able to tailor the treatment plan to the illness. According to the American Psychological Association in a bulletin specifically addressed to patients suffering chronic illnesses: "A qualified psychologist can help you build the emotional resilience necessary to navigate the difficulties of chronic illness. Working with your physician and other specialists, the psychologist can help develop appropriate coping strategies that will not only reinforce your treatment program, but also help you fulfillment in life regardless of any physical limitations" (Chronic illness, 2011, APA). The adult and/or child psychologist could provide assistance in helping adult and child patients deal with stress, regret, PTSD and other associated complaints when warranted.
A fifth possible role might include a psychiatrist specifically trained in an illness present in the population at a high rate or to treat a population present in the community with specific, health-related needs, such as autism or gerontology (treatment of the elderly).
Having such a wide range of therapists on hand would provide more comprehensive community care because of their ability to focus upon the needs of specific populations. Children possess specific developmental needs that cannot be ignored. Additionally, there has been increased concern about over-medication of children, and treating children as small adults with medications that are not thoroughly tested on their developing bodies. Having a child psychologist on hand is essential, and could also work as a community liaison with schools to educate parents and students about stress management, dealing with learning disabilities, bullying, and health and safety issues. This could create a positive image for the hospital in the community.
Addressing short- and long-term needs is also critical. Having a psychologist specifically on hand to deal with in-patient psychological concerns, such as the stress of undergoing invasive procedures, the different stages of grief or even simply...
However, a general adult psychologist should also be on hand to direct patients to resources for illnesses that extend beyond a specific health complaint or issue and also to create community-related events about issues of concern like stress reduction. Even someone who does not suffer from a diagnosable mental condition may need to be connected with support groups or a consistent source of psychological aid when dealing with illness over a long period of time.
Finally, there is the need for treatment of specific mental illnesses, such as substance abuse or other illnesses or populations present in disproportionate numbers in the community. No general specialist can be aware of all of the most recent research on treatment of the elderly, autism, or substance abuse and the facility should select specific therapists with expertise and experience in these areas, based upon the demographics of the population.
References
Chronic illness. (2011). American Psychological Association (APA). Retrieved August 11, 2011
at http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/chronic.aspx
Department of Psychology. (2011). Mass General Hospital. Retrieved August 11, 2011
http://www.massgeneral.org/psychiatry/
Mindfulness meditation training changes brain structure in 8 weeks. (2011). Mass General.
Retrieved August 11, 2011 at http://www.massgeneral.org/about/pressrelease.aspx?id=1329
Psychologists. (2011). Bureau of Labor and Statistics. Retrieved August 11, 2011 at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos056.htm
Volkow, Nora D. (2011). Addiction and the brain's pleasure pathway: Beyond willpower.
Understanding Addiction. Retrieved August 11, 2011 at http://www.hbo.com/addiction/understanding_addiction/12_pleasure_pathway.html
Walker, K. (2011). How psychologists help chronic pain patients. Spine Universe.
Retrieved August 11, 2011 at http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/chronic-pain/how-psychologists-help-chronic-pain-patients
