Understanding practitioners' experiences of co-working

Abstract

Section A
Background. Co-working, where two or more therapists work together in the delivery of a psychological intervention, is widely practiced across a variety of therapeutic modalities and settings. The relationship between co-therapists has been positioned as central to the practice, and co-working has been discussed as being a learning tool for therapists. This review aimed to explore therapists’ experiences of co-working.

Method. A systematic literature search was conducted across six databases, returning 16 studies fitting the pre-established inclusion criteria. Studies were critically evaluated using three quality appraisal tools. A narrative synthesis of findings followed.

Findings. ‘Modelling’ and ‘development over time of the co-working relationship’, emerged as processes occurring in co-working practice. Success of the co-working relationship was linked to issues of compatibility, satisfaction, trust, nurturing the relationship outside of sessions, and access to supervision. The benefits of co-working, which included therapist development and sharing responsibilities, appeared to outweigh the challenges.

Discussion. The findings align with much of the existing theoretical literature on therapists’ perspectives of co-working. Clinical and research implications are discussed. Further empirical research of co-working in specific interventions, and investigation into how to overcome co-working related challenges is merited.

Section B
Background. Family interventions (FI) for psychosis contribute to improved outcomes for service-users and families. Co-working, wherein two or more practitioners work together to deliver an intervention, is common practice in FI. No known empirical research exists examining co-working in FI for psychosis specifically. This study aimed to develop an initial grounded theory of co-working in FI for psychosis.

Method. A qualitative modified grounded theory methodology was used. Fourteen practitioners who delivered FI for psychosis participated in semi-structured interviews. Interviews were transcribed and coded. An emerging theoretical model was developed from the data.

Findings. The developed model suggested co-working in FI can offer certain benefits for practitioners and families. Co-working challenges, and ways of approaching and managing these, were highlighted. Participants described their ability to successfully harness co-working benefits and manage co-working challenges was facilitated or inhibited by various ways of being. Successful co-working contributed to a sense of practitioner wellbeing. Practitioners seemed to be working towards a shared goal of making the best possible use of the co-working relationship for the benefit of the family and the co-working team.

Discussion. Findings are discussed in relation to existing literature and relevant theory. Strengths, limitations, and clinical and research implications are considered.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	English