Mental Health Reflection

This week practicum was held at Richmond Community and I was assigned to the acute

care unit with one other classmate. Since this was my first mental health practicum, I was a little

nervous and I hadn’t anticipated being on the acute unit. The day began with a group therapy

session. I found it easy to interact with each of the patients after everyone had introduced

themselves and the group dynamic had been established. For the most part, the group was able

to stay focused and functioned well together. I think that the group was able to cooperate and

participate because my partner and I had established trust with the group.

One patient in particular was a little manipulative and territorial during group activities.

She was interruptive of other patients as well as the group leaders and she would often try to

monopolize the conversation. At first, I acknowledged her and tried to redirect her attention back

to the group. Despite my efforts, she continued to be a barrier to the rest of the group. The best

thing that I could do in that situation was not acknowledge her. When she realized that no one

was paying attention to her antics, she became a more active and functional member of the

group.

Having patience and maintaining open body language is crucial when communicating

with patients. When a patient spoke to me, I made sure to face them squarely and nod my head

while listening. It is important to establish boundaries early in a relationship. Throughout the day

I made sure to be aware of my personal space and tried to maintain a relaxed posture. I think

that maintaining calm appearance was crucial to being in control as a group leader.
 Reference

Townsend, M. C. (2016). ​Essentials of psychiatric mental health nursing: concepts of care in

evidence based practice​ (7th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis Company.