Delivery of psychological therapies: clinical governance implications for trusts

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the clinical governance issues involved in the provision of psychological therapies within a context of massive demand and expansion underpinned by recent policy developments at the Department of Health. Raises awareness of the potential risks to Trusts involved in inadequate governance of therapy provision.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper shows an informed review of the recent policies and influences affecting the development of psychological therapies and the clinical governance issues arising from them.

Findings

The paper compares the realities of service provision with the ideal model of service delivery recommended by the Department of Health. Raises concerns for all those Trusts providing psychological therapies about their governance and risk management arrangements.

Originality/value

The paper shows the key summary and opinion for all Trusts responsible for provision of psychological therapies.

Citation

Barry, R. (2006), "Delivery of psychological therapies: clinical governance implications for trusts", Clinical Governance: An International Journal, Vol. 11 No. 3, pp. 174-179. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777270610683092