Physician and psychologist beliefs influencing referral of patients for psychotherapy.

A majority of patients with mental or emotional problems are seen in the general medical sector first, but physicians often report that they do not have the time or skills for dealing with these patients. This study focuses on physicians' and psychologists' beliefs about the components of making a successful referral. Interviews with family physicians and psychologists revealed that physician visits before and after referrals, good communication between the physician and the psychologist, physician knowledge about psychotherapy, third-party insurance coverage, and a holistic approach to the patient were considered important components of a successful referral. Physicians believed that patients' income and psychologist experience were less important than did psychologists, but physicians felt that involving the family was more important than psychologists. Both groups generally agreed about specific problems and their relationships to a successful referral. This survey identified issues useful to providers attempting to care for patients with psychological problems by the referral process.