[Structure and characteristics of technical support that psychiatric social workers of prefectural governments provide for municipalities]

Objectives The support to municipalities by prefectural governments has become necessary in the fields of mental health and welfare. Therefore, psychiatric social workers (PSW) ordered from the prefectural governor has been providing technical support (TS) that promote community activities of the municipality and improve staff support for persons with mental disabilities. The purpose of this study was to identify empirical structure and characteristics of TS that PSW provide for municipality staff.Method Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven certified PSW randomly selected from the membership list of the National Psychiatric Social Worker Organization. Inclusion criteria required participants to have more than 10 years of experience at the prefectural government and experience providing TS in the last five years. Interviews focused on two situations: a casework and a project related to mental health. Interview data were analyzed using a qualitative content method, setting a framework for the consultation process.Results The analysis included five categories < > and 15 subcategories [ ], which consisted of 37 concepts. In category <building the relationship> with municipalities consisted of [complementary relationship] and [partnership]. The category <analyze/judgment from various sources of information> included two subcategories, [analyze/judgment from the conditions spread in front of] and [analyze/judgment be the accumulated skills and knowledge in person]. In category <formulation of support policy>, six policies were considered as important, including [problem solving and promoting action], [fostering person centered care perspective], [promoting the understanding of residents], [provide psychological support to the staff], [clarify responsibility as the municipal officials], and [coordinate to improve the environment]. Category <support techniques> consisted of both [support indirectly] and [support cooperatively]. The last category, <evaluation of the support> included three subcategories, [lead to the maintenance and improvement of the system], [have the staff pleasure/contribute to the community], and [consider whether it can be applied to other regions]. The results showed that the characteristics of TS had a consultation function, and the support function utilized complementarity and collaboration between prefecture and municipality providing services to residents.Conclusion This study has clarified the characteristics of TS, which have not been clarified in previous research. We should accumulate the knowledge and establish a method for spreading through various regions.