A Mixed-Method Modified Delphi Study toward Identifying Key Elements of Psychotherapy in Iran

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry and Mental Health
• Cultural Psychiatry
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Psychotherapy is recognized as a vital treatment for psychiatric disorders in Iran.
• Existing research lacks identification of psychotherapy elements specific to Iranian societal contexts.
• This study addresses the need to define culturally relevant psychotherapy components.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and define the essential elements of psychotherapy tailored to Iranian society.
• To establish a consensus among experts on culturally specific psychotherapy components.
• To provide a foundation for improving psychotherapy delivery in Iran.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-method modified Delphi approach was employed over 2017-2018.
• Initial qualitative stage involved thematic analysis of interviews with 12 psychotherapy experts.
• Subsequent quantitative stages utilized successive Delphi rounds with 70 experts to achieve 75% consensus.

Main Results:

• Key elements were categorized into: systematic education/training, psychotherapist competency, culturally reflective practice, and underlying scientific/ethical principles.
• Consensus on identified elements was achieved within two Delphi rounds.
• Round 1 achieved 52.8% consensus, with remaining statements reaching consensus in Round 2.

Conclusions:

• Effective psychotherapy in Iran requires trained, competent therapists delivering interventions aligned with societal needs.
• A framework encompassing education, competency, cultural relevance, and ethical principles is proposed.
• This framework aims to enhance the current provision of psychotherapy services in Iran.