Physicians' role in managing emotionally distressed patients already in psychotherapy

Much has been written on how physicians should manage patients in emotional distress, including recommendations for making successful referrals to mental health providers. Little has been written, however, on the management of distressed patients who are already in psychotherapy. This article, drawing on three cases, a review of the literature, and systems theory, presents recommendations for managing these patients. Physicians are encouraged to assess these patients for risk of suicide or homicide, substance abuse, and indications for psychotropic medication. They are advised to seek a patient's permission to speak to his or her therapist when the patient may be in immediate danger, when psychotropic medications, hospitalization, or psychiatric consultation is considered, and when the patient fails to respond to ongoing treatment. For patients whose therapists are not psychiatrists, psychiatric consultation is recommended when there are questions about psychotropic medications, when psychiatric and substance abuse disorders coexist, and when hospitalization is considered. Therapists skilled in applying systems theory should be consulted when the patient, psychotherapist, and physician agree that the patient is not making sufficient progress. In most cases, however, physicians should reassure patients about distressing symptoms, avoid expressing opinions about the therapist and psychosocial issues, and encourage patients to renew or to expand their commitment to their psychotherapy.