title: Developing a comprehensive understanding of the working alliance in community mental health.
abstract: The concept of a working alliance as a key ingredient within therapeutic processes has been emphasized by many community mental health researchers and practitioners. However, few studies have provided insights into the dimensions and operationalization of the concept. To address this gap, the authors analyzed data on the working alliance derived from two qualitative data sets: (a) interviews conducted with 33 users of community mental health services, family members, and service providers; and (b) content extracted from a systematic review of 48 articles in the area of community mental health services. Three superordinate themes emerged: Building and negotiating trust, I'm on your side, and Tools and strategies. The authors discuss implications for community mental health practice.
authors.affiliation: Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Graduate Department of Rehabilitation Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario.
authors.forename: Bonnie
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Kirsh
authors.forename: Ellen
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Tate
mesh_terms: D003156:Community Mental Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000628:therapy; D015201:Meta-Analysis as Topic; D010348:Patient Care Team; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012944:Social Support; D035502:Trust