General Treatment Information and Resources

Several strategies, techniques, and resources are helpful for addressing mental health needs and medical complexity for patients participating in physical therapy across the lifespan. This chapter discusses general information and resources that clinicians can apply to improve evidence-based practice in mental health patient populations. Key issues to be aware of with younger and older age groups include informed consent, factors that affect participation, and ethical issues, such as when to withdraw intervention. Evidence resources include American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) academy websites, the Beers Criteria ® for medication, and mental health organization websites. Finally, communication and motivational techniques include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing (MI).