Enough of What?

Abstract

The definitions of psychotherapy, the intent and suitability of treatment, and definitions of psychological illness and health are inextricably bound to cultural, economic and historical factors. This comment addresses Dr. Robert May's question of how much is enough by inquiring about how the college counseling service is impacted by these factors. The connections between shifting cultural values as evidenced in the emergence of the managed care ethos are explored. Attention is paid to the cultural background and frame of reference in which development occurs for the student population and how this may impact the nature and severity of presenting problems in students seeking treatment.

Key Words:

• Mental health care
• managed care
• psychotherapy
• counseling
• sociocultural