Six-month utilization of psychotherapy by older adults with depressive symptoms.
We explored psychotherapy utilization patterns for community-dwelling older adults with depressive symptoms identified during a statewide initiative designed for identifying risk of substance misuse. Individuals screening negative for substance misuse, but positive for depressive symptoms, agreed to participate in monthly interviews conducted over 6 months (n = 144). Results showed that 39 (27%) received psychotherapy, of which nearly two-thirds reported four or fewer visits. Mental health counselors were the most frequently reported service providers (50-62.5%). Location of service varied considerably. This study documents low rates of psychotherapy use and few visits. Current efforts to increase psychotherapy access are discussed.
Louis de la Parte Florida Mental Health Institute, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., MHC 2632A, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA, ambergum@usf.edu.
Amber M
AM
Gum
Anne
A
Hirsch
Natalie D
ND
Dautovich
Stephen
S
Ferrante
Lawrence
L
Schonfeld
D000368:Aged; D003863:Depression / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D005431:Florida / Q000453:epidemiology; D006297:Health Services Accessibility / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D011613:Psychotherapy / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*