A qualitative exploration of Gestalt therapy and systemic pedagogy paediatric primary healthcare consultations in Agramunt (Spain).

Abstract

Gestalt therapy (GT) and systemic pedagogy (SP) are useful tools to approach emotional difficulties and mental health problems among children and adolescents. The main objective of this study was to explore the perceptions on GT and SP techniques in paediatric mental health-related consultations in a primary healthcare (PHC) centre in Catalonia in 2018-2019, among families, healthcare, and education professionals. Qualitative study, combining semi-structured interviews with families (N = 42) and professionals (N = 15), conducted after a series paediatric PHC consultations including GT and SP techniques. Interviews lasted between 15 and 90min and were conducted at the PHC centre where GT/SP consultations took place, and at professionals' workplaces. Socio-demographics, reasons for consultation, and quantitative ratings on the perceived effectiveness of GT/SP consultations were also collected to combine these data with the qualitative interviews. Qualitative data were analyzed descriptively using thematic analysis. Quantitative data were analyzed by calculating frequencies (percentages) for categorical variables, and means, medians, and ranges for continuous variables. Narratives from families and healthcare professionals indicate that GT/SP consultations might have been effective in improving children and adolescents' symptomatology and emotional health. Improved well-being within the family context was another main finding, based on families' perceptions and experiences. Besides, GT/SP were considered acceptable for approaching emotional and mental health in PHC services, although barriers for implementation were identified. This study presents data on the potential usefulness of GT/SP to design and implement services that promote emotional and mental health among children and adolescents in PHC. Also, for the development of health policies and future research in this area.