Counseling Psychologists as Nursing Home Consultants

Abstract

Recent developments in federal legislation, reimbursement policies, and professional politics have promoted wider appeal within professional psychology for consultation services to nursing homes. This article outlines the need for counseling psychologists to be involved in such consultation. Results are reported from a survey of nursing home administrators that provides information about their perceptions of the mental health needs of both residents and staff, the problems they find most difficult to manage, and the intervention programs they desire. Recommendations are made for counseling psychologists to gain entry into the long-term care system as consultants.