Process Rounds to Elevate Psychological Skills in Palliative Care

Abstract

Background:

A half-day workshop improved palliative care clinicians’ ability to integrate psychological concepts into serious illness communication but created demand for longitudinal learning.

Objective:

To pilot “Process Rounds,” a four-session, case-based, adapted psychotherapeutic supervision group reinforcing formulation, countertransference, and mindful intervention.

Methods:

Workshop graduates from four cohorts were invited; 25/143 enrolled. Each cohort met for four 60-minute sessions over 6–8 weeks. Eight-week postworkshop surveys included specific items for Process Rounds participants. Facilitators were interviewed about their experiences and themes.

Results:

Participants were highly satisfied with the Process Rounds. Compared with nonparticipants, Process Rounds attendees reported greater improvement in comfort teaching formulation (p = 0.013) and stronger clinical impact (p = 0.028). Participants and facilitators found value in the structured format; scheduling conflicts were the chief barrier.

Conclusions:

Process Rounds, an adapted model of psychotherapeutic supervision, was acceptable to palliative care clinicians and deepened learning about psychologically informed serious illness communication.