Employers Feedback on Psychosocial Counselling Graduates’ Performance in Selected Healthcare Facilities in Malawi

Abstract

Psychosocial counselling is vital for addressing mental health challenges in Malawi, a low-income country in sub-Saharan Africa. However, there is a shortage of qualified mental health professionals, including Psychosocial counsellors. The Saint John of God College of Health Sciences aims to produce competent graduates in psychosocial counselling, but there is a lack of information on the quality of graduates and their ability to meet employer expectations. This qualitative study aimed to explore employers' feedback on psychosocial counselling graduates' performance in selected healthcare facilities in Malawi. Methods: This qualitative approach employed an explorative research design. Eighteen participants were selected purposefully from ten healthcare facilities across three regions of Malawi. They were interviewed independently using a semi-structured interview guide. The data were analysed thematically using content analysis approach.Results: The study reveals the assigned responsibilities of psychosocial counselling graduates, including providing HIV/AIDS therapeutic services, individual and group counselling, crisis intervention, and coordinating referrals. Employers recognize the graduates' competence in communication skills, empathy, theoretical knowledge, and professionalism. However, some weaknesses were identified, such as difficulties in maintaining boundaries, limited knowledge of health-related terms, and a lack of proactivity. Suggestions for improvement include teaching professionalism, incorporating health-related terms in the curriculum, following up with graduates, continuing the practicum aspect, establishing partnerships, and expanding training in evidence-based practices. Conclusion:The study explored employer feedback on psychosocial counselling graduates from Saint John of God College of Health Sciences in Malawi. The study to identified strengths, areas for improvement, and recommendations were made to improve the Psychosocial counselling academic programme. Implementing them can improve graduates quality and mental health outcomes in Malawi.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Psychological Distress Among Diabetic Patients at Thyolo District Hospital in Malawi: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study

“…Saint John of God College of Health Sciences in Malawi trains these cadres of mental health professionals. [22][23][24] Patients living with diabetes commonly face varying levels of depression, highlighting the need for specialized attention to their mental health. Healthcare providers should collaborate with mental health professionals and tailor therapeutic approaches, considering cultural and social factors, to effectively address the psychological well-being of diabetic patients.…”

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Psychological Distress among Diabetic Patients at Thyolo District Hospital in Malawi: Hospital-Based Cross-Section Study [Response to Letter]

“…Furthermore, we agree with you on the importance of implementing systematic screening protocols for diabetes-related distress and advocating for the integration of mental healthcare professionals into the multidisciplinary framework of diabetes management. To further concur with you, in Malawi, researchers at Saint John of God College of Health Sciences such as Chima, Mkwinda, and Machaya (2023), 1 Chima, Mkwinda, Kumwendaet al, (2023), 2 Masulani-Mwale et al, (2019), 3 Ng’oma et al, (2022) 4 both emphasized in their studies independently on the need for incorporating Psychosocial counselling interventions in holistic life care. These measures hold promise for addressing the psychological needs of diabetic patients comprehensively and improving overall health outcomes and quality of life.…”

A Tracer Study of Psychosocial Counselling Graduates Working in Different Healthcare Facilities Across Malawi

“…This is because Saint John of God College of Health Sciences Psychosocial counselling graduates are working with different non-governmental organizations placed in different health facilities under Malawi government and Christian Health Association of Malawi (CHAM) health facilities across Malawi. 17…”

“…In Malawi, the majority of psychosocial counselling graduates are employed by NGOs but are strategically placed in government and CHAM health facilities across Malawi. 17 For example, some of the NGOs that employ Psychosocial counselling graduates include: Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF), Baylor College of Medicine and Children Foundation, Pakachere Institute for Health Development Communication, Lighthouse trust, Malawi AIDS Counselling and Resource Organization (MACRO), Medic to Medic, Saint John of God Hospitaller Services, Partners in Health, Partners in Hope, and SOS Children's Villages. 17 A huge proportion of graduates from the College were able to secure employment within a relatively short period.…”

“…Psychosocial counsellors also provide HIV counselling and testing services (HTS). 17 In addition, the HIV and AIDS pandemic and its psychological, emotional, relational, and spiritual impact led to an increased number of orphans and the situation regarding drug and alcohol abuse needed to be addressed urgently using psychosocial counsellors. The need for professionally trained counsellors has also become imperative for the many personal, social, and cultural challenges faced by adults as well as adolescents and children.…”