Date of Award
Spring 3-2009
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
Department
Graduate Department of Clinical Psychology
First Advisor
Mary Peterson, PhD
Second Advisor
Kathleen Gathercoal, PhD
Third Advisor
Dan Morlan
Abstract
Given the prevalence of mental health issues in the United States, increased screening measures are necessary to identify and treat individuals affected by mental health disorders. Literature indicates comorbidity between chronic pain, making those who experience chronic pain good candidates for focused screening efforts. Physical therapists are potential screeners since they frequently treat individuals with chronic pain. A survey sent to physical therapists to assess their previous training and attitudes towards mental health issues in the physical therapy environment indicated that the mental health of a patient played a role in the success of physical therapy. Previous training also played a role in the comfort and confidence levels of physical therapists in addressing mental health issues, as well as the actions taken to incorporate mental health into treatment.
Recommended Citation
Aadland, Amy E. K., "Screening for Mental Health Issues: Past Training and Current Practice ofPhysical Therapists" (2009). Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). 497.
https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/psyd/497