Citation

Gordon DE, Kenny DM, O'Reilly DA, Moore DGP. Eur. J. Psychother. Counsell. 2018; 20(3): 257-277.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/13642537.2018.1495242

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Clients who make repeat suicide attempts have complex needs, are at high risk of completed suicide and pose a range of challenges for clinicians. Targeted interventions are required. Acceptability, the perceived appropriateness of an intervention, is associated with successful implementation, engagement and effectiveness of interventions. Despite the advantages of group interventions, there is limited research into the acceptability of groups with this population. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, this paper reports on facilitators' experiences (n = 9) of the acceptability of a therapeutic group intervention (PISA-a Psychoeducational/psychosocial Intervention for persons who make recurrent Suicide Attempts). Analysis of focus group data revealed how involvement with the intervention profoundly influenced facilitators' perceptions of and approach to their work with this client group. They embraced the model, developed a deeper appreciation of clients' resources and became unburdened from sole responsibility for the clients, the therapeutic process and outcomes. PISA provided a model that helped facilitators to work in a focused, compassionate and creative manner as they addressed the central concern of these clients, their suicidal desire, with newly found confidence and eagerness. PISA was experienced as acceptable to facilitators as it was useful to them and deemed appropriate and beneficial to the target population. © 2018, © 2018 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.

Language: en

Keywords

Suicide attempt; clinician acceptability; group intervention; IPA; PISA/SfSL; psychotherapeutic