Counselling in an inner city general practice: analysis of its use and uptake.

BACKGROUND In recognition of the emotional problems which frequently underlie somatic complaints, practices increasingly offer counselling as part of their services to patients. In an inner city practice, a combination of short term counselling, volunteer befriending, community outreach and social work services is offered as a means of responding to the full range of patients' counselling needs. AIM This study set out to establish the use and uptake of these services. METHOD A retrospective analysis of patients referred for counselling over one year was carried out. RESULTS The analysis identified a broad range of emotional problems among referred patients as well as problems of a practical nature. A quarter of the patients referred failed to keep their initial appointments or to complete their contracts. One fifth of the patients were referred on for longer term counselling and/or psychotherapy. Subsequent feedback revealed that preparation of a patient before referral was an important factor affecting uptake of counselling. CONCLUSION Early assessment of the use and uptake of such services is essential if they are to be integrated successfully and a counsellor's individual skills employed effectively.