Challenges and realities of teaching psychotherapy: A survey of psychiatric-mental health nursing graduate programs

Purpose. This study was conducted in order to determine what and how psychotherapy content is taught in graduate psychiatric nursing programs in the United States. Design and methods. This survey was conducted of 120 psychiatric-mental health nursing graduate programs in the United States in order to determine what and how psychotherapy content is taught in these programs. Findings. The results of this survey revealed a diversity of programs with a plurality of psychotherapy approaches and models taught. Implications for education, research, and practice are delineated. Practice Implications. Results provide evidence that further clarity, consensus, and curriculum guidelines are needed for teaching psychotherapy in psychiatric graduate nursing programs.