This study has investigated the issues influencing psychiatrists and psychologists to lead patients to be assisted by a psychotherapist and its role on the treatment of patients, according to the perceptions of those professionals. Three psychiatrists and three psychologists of multi-professional clinics from Porto Alegre (RGS) were interviewed. A semi-structured interview with seven open questions regarding this research subject was applied. The data obtained from the interviews were subjected to a qualitative analysis, resulting in the following categories subdivision: 1) Elements for psychotherapist indication; 2) The role of the psychotherapist during the treatment; 3) The necessary abilities and skills in relation to that profession; 4) Bibliographical reference and appropriate knowledge area for therapist practice. The Therapist work is recognized as co-adjuvant during treatment, exerting an active role and, sometimes, having a crucial role for the success of the treatment by acting within the patient's environment. Based on the participant's opinion, it was concluded that the most appropriate approach, regarding psychotherapy, was the cognitive-behavioral approach.
Psychotherapist; mental health professionals; therapist practice
