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Psychology 214: Psychological Interventions
Assignment
Introduction
The case concerns a 14 year old adolescent girl I have been counselling for the past three months. Her home background has been unstable due to a conflictual family life. Her situation has been exacerbated by her poor nutritional health. She complained of severe depression and shared her intent to end her life. She sought advice from me in terms of the means to execute her wish to terminate her life. This was communicated in confidence and I was specifically asked not to divulge this information as she felt ashamed that she was not coping with her life.
The case
Following the initial introduction, the client was informed of the basis …show more content…
The first thing I would do is to re-assure the client that her feelings were understandable and that a treatment approach would help in resolving the issues experienced by the client. That is, I would affirm the aspect of hope to the client.
Due to the severe depression, I would suggest treatment such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or interpersonal psychotherapy, in addition to one or more medications. I would introduce the client to the concept of CBT as a treatment method. I would talk about the equal, collaborative relationship that this form of therapy requires. This would reinforce the need on the part of the client to feel in control and to work with me rather than expect me to 'cure’ her.
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Treatment with medication and an evidence-based psychological treatment (ie, CBT or interpersonal psychotherapy) increases the likelihood of improved symptoms and relationships with family and friends; it can also improve self-confidence and the ability to cope effectively.
Depending on the findings by the Clinician, the client has to be informed of the possible need for hospitalisation for a short period of …show more content…
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Engagement of the services of a Dietician or Nutrition Specialist to address the poor nutritional health of the client.
All the above consultations are in line with the requirements of the HPCSA rules of conduct.
Family education is also important before decisions are made about the client’s treatment plan. In adolescents, treatment for depression is most successful when the parents are involved.
Learning about depression is an important component of depression treatment. However, if the conflictual family situation is not resolved first, it would be prudent to delay the parental involvement to a later stage or until improved compliance is achieved.
An assessment would have to be made whether family interactions would be constructive or if the client needs protection from such interactions for the time being.
From a personal point of view, it is important for me to be aware of any emotional bias on my part due to the sensitive and traumatic situation that my client is