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Being Therapeutic: Re-examining the “Biological Paradigm” in Psychiatric Training and Clinical Practice

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Psychiatric training in India emphasises a biological paradigm, with minimal focus on psychological formulation or psychotherapeutic methods. Yet many psychiatrists engage in implicitly therapeutic practices without formal training. This paper explores the distinction between “doing psychotherapy” and “being therapeutic,” highlighting the roles of psychological formulation and therapeutic alliance in clinical care. These often-unspoken practices influence patient outcomes, satisfaction, and treatment adherence. We argue for greater recognition and development of these skills within psychiatric training and practice. Emphasising relational dynamics and repeated, flexible encounters may enhance care, especially in resource-limited contexts where formal psychotherapy is less feasible.

Source: Journal of Psychiatry Spectrum

DOI: 10.4103/jopsys.jopsys_93_25

Authors: Arun Kishore N. Ravivarman, Arun Kandasamy

Institutions: Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Fiona Stanley Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Psychotherapy Techniques and Applications

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4415202070

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Cites: 12

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