No abstract

Physicians in the primary care setting, such as General Practitioners and doctors working in polyclinics, will encounter patients with varying expectations of the consultation process, especially with regards to their emotional needs. These interactions, shaped by transference and counter-transference, will often induce varying emotional reactions in the physicians, both positive and negative. Understanding the dynamics which drive these interactions, and reflecting upon the physician's own emotional responses, can often lead to a more holistic appreciation of the patient and the therapeutic relationship, and consequently in improved patient care, and enhanced satisfaction for both the patient and physician. This article highlights the above dynamic interactions, and introduces the Balint Group, a platform whereby such themes and processes can be further explored. The processes of the Balint Group, and its benefit for attending members, are discussed.

No abstract

The authors provide an overview of the history of psychiatric services and training in Singapore, and the more recent introduction of psychodynamic psychotherapy training for psychiatric residents. They describe the current state of psychodynamic psychiatry services in the public healthcare system, including efforts at fostering psychodynamic thinking in nonpsychiatric community partners via community mental health integrated care programs and activities such as Balint Groups. They discuss current challenges in psychodynamic practice, such as the impact of language and culture on the Singaporean individual's receptiveness to psychodynamic psychotherapy, as well as systemic challenges in funding and expanding psychodynamic services. They highlight future directions, including challenges and opportunities for the local psychodynamic community in Singapore.