The Function of Psychotherapy in Italian Mental Health Services

Rivista di Psicologia Clinica n.2 – 2011 114
Let’ s look back at Giovanna’s Case 2. Here, early diagnosis of depression, first assumed as a problem to be dealt with by a single psychologist, converted later into a relational dynamic involving SPDC and two psychiatrists from CMH. An interesting aspect is that the service tried different ways to keep up the relationship with the patient despite her frequent attacks, and did it by reorganizing its early plans. This aspect can be further explored by revisiting the different phases of the intervention starting from the admission. As we have already said, Giovanna is 31 years old and approaches a CMH following her aunt’s advice, who has noticed she's depressed. The nurse notes down that the reasons why this intervention is requested for are bereavement and weight loss. Ten days later, during her first interview with the trainee psychologist, Giovanna talks about her malaise as a result of breaking up with her boyfriend Roberto. He doesn't accept anymore Giovanna’s behaviours such as her continuous requests on assuring her about their relationship. The loss of both her parents adds to the problem of breaking up, her mother died three months before after a long illness and her father died six years ago by a stroke. Giovanna says that Roberto has supported her to get through and out of her losses and encouraged her to go out and get some distraction. She says she is in trouble in coping with this moment and that she can't recognize herself anymore in her attitude towards Roberto, like persistent phone calls and several provocative text messages to control him all the time. Giovanna manifests the same relational aspects with the two psychologists since by the end of the first interview she urgently needs another session, waiting seems to be so hard for