Developing Focussed Psychological Strategies Skills Training (FPS ST) courses (Level 2)

Useful GPMHSC resource

Registering with Medicare as a GP provider of FPS. 

Courses based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

Courses based on interpersonal therapy (IPT[RM1])

Courses predominantly based on CBT must provide skills in the following strategies, except those shown as optional:

§ psycho-education

§ motivational interviewing

§ theory and principles underlying CBT

§ behavioural interventions:

§ behaviour modifications

§ activity scheduling (optional)

§ exposure techniques (optional)

§ cognitive interventions:

§ cognitive analysis, thought challenging and cognitive restructuring

§ self-instructional training, attention regulation and control (optional)

§ relaxation strategies

§ skills training (such as problem-solving, communication training, parent management training and stress management)

Courses predominantly based on IPT must provide skills in the following strategies, except those shown as optional:

§ psycho-education

§ motivational interviewing (optional)

§ theory and principles underlying IPT, mental illnesses linked to four types of relationship difficulties (loss, role dispute, role transitions and interpersonal deficits)

§ IPT training:

§ explores consumer’s perceptions, expectations of others and relationships

§ identifies problems with relationships

§ uses the patient’s affect to bring about change

§ problem-solves to achieve a resolution of relationship issues

§ includes communication analysis and training

§ includes role-play changed behaviour

§ looks at use of the therapeutic relationship

1. Select evidence-based FPS intervention appropriate to consumer issues and needs outlined in the GP MHTP

1.1 a brief discussion of Australia’s mental health care system (which can be included in pre-reading)

1.2 a discussion of the epidemiology and aetiology of mental disorders included for treatment under the Better Access initiative (which can be included in pre-reading)

1.3 for each condition covered:

§ an outline of the relevant FPS treatment models that apply to particular disorders

§ an outline of the modes of assessment

§ an outline of how to best apply FPS interventions in general practice

2. Demonstrate evidence-based FPS intervention appropriate to consumer issues and needs in general practice

2.1 in CBT programs, a demonstration of techniques to provide CBT-based FPS to consumers as part of the treatment plan for their mental illness

2.2 in IPT programs, a demonstration of techniques to provide IPT-based FPS to consumers as part of their treatment plan for their mental illness

2.3 a discussion of the cultural, environmental and social influences that relate to the delivery and uptake of FPS

2.4 a discussion of integrated FPS and pharmacological therapies, and the use of e-therapies

2.5 a discussion of the progress and review of consumers with a known mental illness

2.6 a discussion of safe closure/termination of FPS interventions

3. Incorporate the lived experience and needs of consumers, their carers and others in their network to inform provision of FPS

Consumer experience

3.1 a discussion of the application of learnt FPS strategies in day-to-day life

3.2 a discussion of helpful and challenging aspects of learnt FPS strategies

3.3 a discussion of how the GP can assist the consumer to navigate mental health services

3.4 a discussion of improvements that could be made to the primary healthcare system for consumers of mental health services and recommendations to address barriers to access

3.5 useful resources for consumers

Carer experience

3.6 a discussion of how the mental illness diagnosis of the consumer has affected the carer, their role as a carer, their life and their health and wellbeing

3.7 a discussion of how GPs can best support carers and other support people via care coordination

3.8 a discussion of the value of the GP MHTP and the carer role in the recovery journey

3.9 a discussion of improvements that could be made to the primary healthcare system for carers of people accessing mental health services and recommendations to address barriers to access

3.10 useful resources for carers

4. Discuss the use of practice systems and strategies to provide safe and holistic mental health care in the context of general practice

4.1 the implementation of systematic approaches to risk assessment and coordination of care for consumers

4.2 the application of knowledge of local services, resources and referral pathways relevant to consumers’ needs to assist in their mental health care and recovery

4.3 the implementation of systematic approaches to manage the complexities of providing mental health care, including strategies that acknowledge and support GP self-care and wellbeing

5. Discuss the engagement of regular supervision and other professional development to maintain and extend skills in providing FPS

5.1 a discussion of the requirement for ongoing registration as a GP provider of FPS with Medicare, including the need to complete FPS CPD every triennium

5.2 a discussion of the different types of FPS CPD, including peer-group learning and Balint groups, that will help GPs reflect on and improve their FPS

5.3 a discussion of model principles of professional supervision, including information on registers or networks

6. Discuss appropriate MBS item numbers relating to providing mental health care in general practice

6.1 the application of MBS item numbers relating to providing FPS, including telehealth item numbers (videoconferencing and phone consultations)

Useful GPMHSC resource

Developing Focussed Psychological Strategies Skills Training.