Therapists’ Lived Experiences Working with Psychotic States Within the Windhorse IMH Model

Abstract

This study focused on the lived experience of therapists whose clients are in recovery from psychotic disorders within the Windhorse IMH model. The study explored the clinicians’ lived experience of being in extended exchange with clients with psychotic disorders and how clinicians utilize embedded self-care strategies such as contemplative practice, a variety of supervision experiences, and reciprocal social support within the model. The experience of being in exchange with clients with psychotic disorders, for multiple hours per session, was explored in order to gain an understanding of the intricacies of the experience. Also explored was the clinician’s experience of the model’s embedded clinician self-care strategies, such as team and individual supervision experiences, social engagement with peers and clients, and consistent training and support for personal and contemplative practice. Some major themes that emerged from the interviews were the depth of understanding of the mental illness journey gained by clinicians because of deeper relational alliances, clinician access to knowledge of the inner workings of psychotic disorders from the patient perspective, and the importance of social acceptance to the patient. In addition, the study found that from the participants’ perspective, intentional and model embedded meditative practice, team and individual supervision experiences, and social reciprocity with clients and peers enhanced clinician longevity, clinical prowess, and ability to stay empathic and compassionate toward their clients.