Friday 24 July 15:40
- 17:10
Hall: 11 - Palazzina 3
Chair and Presenter:
Bray James
Division: Division 17: Professional Psychology
This symposium will discuss innovative models of training that psychologists have developed to provide integrated health care. Integrated health care addresses WHO initiatives for universal mental health care and psychologists have played key roles in designing and implementing these programs. Training to work in integrated healthcare requires specialized skills and knowledge not found in traditional psychology training programs. Current research indicates massive hidden costs to society from mental and behavioural health problems, both economically and in terms of impact on health, wellbeing and relationships. In addition, people with mental health problems often have other chronic medical diseases that increase the burden of the disease and decrease the success in treating them. Evidence-based biopsychosocial approaches, including psychological and lifestyle-factor interventions, are available that empower people and ensure more positive health outcomes. This symposium will discuss programs and innovative methods for training to practice and improve practice in integrated healthcare settings.
