Expectations for licensed psychologists in psychiatric liaisons

Past collaboration and future predictions

Abstract

More than five years have passed since the establishment of the licensed psychologists. Psychologists have long played the role of psychiatric liaison as part of the psychiatric liaison team. By becoming licensed psychologists, the understanding of the work of psychologists has improved within hospitals. As a result, they are increasingly performing independent liaison activities not only as part of the psychiatric liaison team, but also as part of the physical medical team. Licensed psychologists and psychiatrists need to continue to respect each other, reconcile their different mental models, and work together. In the future of psychiatric liaison, the fields in which licensed psychologists can play an active role will continue to expand. It is hoped that licensed psychologists will be included in the medical fee payment system in the liaison field.