The therapy capability framework and mapping process: perspectives of mental health clinical case managers

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the utility of a workforce leadership initiative, the Therapy Capability Framework (TCF), designed to enhance the provision of evidence-informed psychosocial therapies by publicly funded mental health case managers. To understand the experiences and perceptions of ‘first-time users' of the TCF was conceived as an important first step to help guide service-wide implementation. Method: In 2018, a qualitative descriptive research methodology using two in-depth focus groups with frontline mental health clinicians in case management roles was adopted to explore their perceptions and experiences of the TCF and TCF Process across Metro South Addiction and Mental Health Services in Brisbane, Australia. An inductive approach to thematic analysis guided the generation of themes and subthemes. Results: Participants understood the purpose of the TCF; however, they identified several factors influencing their experience, including specific features of the framework; how it was used; and organisational, workforce, and leadership factors that restricted its potential utility and impact. Discussion: Clinicians reported the TCF as having the potential to facilitate incremental change in the existing case management model. This paper represents a phase of evaluation and continuous improvement of the TCF, which can assist publicly funded mental health leaders to augment the provision of evidence-informed psychosocial therapies.