A health professional's assessment interview— abusive or therapeutic?

Robyn Hewland

doi:10.9791/ajpanz.1997.08

Robyn Hewland

DOI: https://doi.org/10.9791/ajpanz.1997.08

Abstract

A health assessment can be a collection of data, obtained in an impersonal objective manner, an inquisition by 'the rapist' that leaves the person feeling 'stripped' of dignity and information, or, a consultation by a 'therapist', who both obtains data and develops empathy, rapport and trust.

To be healthy, an individual is in a state of physical, mental and social well-being (WHO). I have become concerned that more is being done to people, and not with individuals and need. My fears were aroused by my professional experiences, and by a conference report from 1996.

Author Biography

Robyn Hewland

As recorded in 1997.

QSM, MBChB, DPM, FRCPsych, FRANZCP, MNZAP. Clinical Director and Consultant Psychiatrist, CMHS Maroochydore, Queensland. Trained in psychiatry at Sunnyside in Christchurch and at the Maudsley and Tavistock Clinic in London. Worked as a psychiatrist and psychotherapist in such as the MRC Affective Disorders Unit, men's prisons, DSW, in private practice, and for ACC and court reports. Has always taken a bio-psycho-social approach with a focus on the therapeutic relationship. past president of NZAP, and worked on NZMA, NZMWA and NCW.