A field survey of the activities of clinical psychologists involved in cancer care in Japan

Abstract

Introduction: The demand for licensed clinical psychologists in cancer care is increasing in Japan, but it is difficult to ensure good quality of psychological care. This study aims to elucidate psychologists’ activities and identify the relationship between the attributes of psychologists and the activities undertaken by them in cancer care. Methods: A semi-structured interview was conducted with 15 psychologists, and 37 concepts and 15 categories were extracted from the data obtained to create questionnaires. A total of 143 psychologists from regional cancer centers and hospitals in Japan participated in this study, and the results were analyzed. Results: Almost all participants had psychiatric affiliation in the middle of their careers, worked full-time and concurrently in cancer care. They reported to prefer activities that focused on cooperation. Psychologists with higher knowledge and experience gave significantly better consultation and psycho-education compared to those with lower knowledge and experience. Conclusions: Interprofessional collaboration and the therapeutic relationship support is required for psychologists involved in cancer care for it to become a consultation-liaison activity. This study shows that the difference in providing psychological care emerged from the knowledge and experience of psychologists. Therefore, an enhancing model or a training system is required for providing good quality psychological care for in cancer patients.