Role of a PMHNP in Strengthening a Therapeutic Alliance

Discussion 2
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Role of a PMHNP in strengthening a Therapeutic Alliance
The role of a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is essential in mental health care. The relationship between healthcare staff and patients is called a therapeutic alliance. Freud described the aspects of transference and countertransference of emotions between the patient and health care provider unconsciously (Gang et al., 2021). During the initial assessment, therapeutic alliance sets the foundation of the patient-nurse relationship and impacts the treatment outcomes. PMHNPs frequently interact with patients in mental health care, and they must develop good therapeutic alliances to facilitate positive outcomes.
There are several ways in which PMHNPs can facilitate the strengthening of a therapeutic alliance. For instance, during the initial assessment, a PMHNP should create a good rapport with the patient to make them feel at ease. Developing good rapport requires PMHNPs to demonstrate empathy and understanding for the patient’s condition. Carl Rodgers described empathy as an essential catalyst of a therapeutic alliance that yields positive health outcomes (Fortems et al., 2022). Creating therapeutic rapport results in mutual respect and trust between the nurse and patient, thus strengthening the therapeutic alliance. Excellent therapeutic alliances enhance a safe environment which enables patients to express themselves freely. Furthermore, patients feel more supported while working on their recovery.
In addition, the PMHNP should create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for patients during the initial assessment and treatment. A friendly atmosphere makes patients feel relaxed and connect with the healthcare provider. A PMHNP should ensure privacy during the initial assessment, whereby a patient can talk freely without the fear of being interrupted or overheard. Providing a warm environment strengthens th...