Perceived benefits and challenges one year after receiving brief therapy in a district psychiatric centre. An exploration of patients’ and GPs’ experiences: A qualitative study

Time-limited brief therapy was experienced as beneficial for patients with moderate affective and anxiety disorders but was experienced as unsuitable for those with more severe conditions. This raises important questions about the appropriateness of offering brief therapy to a diverse patient population and the efficient use of healthcare resources. We recommend further research to enhance understanding and develop tailored treatment services for different ailments. Identifying which patients benefit most from specific therapies can improve outcomes and resource allocation. An important improvement measure might be to enhance early communication between patients, General Practitioners (GPs), and District Psychiatric Centres (DPCs) before referrals. Ensuring brief therapy is targeted to those likely to benefit the most will enhance treatment effectiveness. Additionally, we suggest implementing joint assessment meetings to facilitate comprehensive information exchange and coordination among different care levels. This approach would improve assessments, treatment planning, and follow-up strategies, ultimately leading to better patient care and resource management.