Finding a fit : an autoethnographic inquiry into the challenges of applying therapeutic psychology in a township context

Abstract

The broad aim of this study is to contribute to Itsoseng clinic?s ability to respond effectively to the psychological needs of the Mamelodi community. The specific objectives of the current study in this context are to document the researcher?s challenging experiences of applying therapeutic psychological services at Itsoseng clinic over the past three years, to contrast these experiences with existing research, and to make recommendations accordingly. The study employs an autoethnographic method of qualitative inquiry to analyse the researcher's personal experience in order to understand its sociocultural significance. The study is conceived from an ecosystemic postmodern social constructionist perspective. The findings suggest that the central challenges experienced by the researcher relate to difficulties with psychology itself, the broader contextual demands of the township context, specific challenges at Itsoseng clinic, a challenging sociocultural context and norms, and language difficulties. The findings provide valuable information and recommendations on how to potentially apply therapeutic psychology in a township context and for the enhancement of Itsoseng clinic's ability to respond effectively to the psychological needs of the Mamelodi community.