Psychotherapy and distributive justice: a Rawlsian analysis

Med Health Care Philos. 2009 Mar;12(1):67-75. doi: 10.1007/s11019-008-9143-1. Epub 2008 Jun 7.

Abstract

In this paper I outline an approach to the distribution of resources between psychotherapy modalities in the context of the UK's health care system, using recent discussions of Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy as a way of highlighting resourcing issues. My main goal is to offer an approach that is just, and that accommodates the diversity of different schools of psychotherapy. In order to do this I draw extensively on the theories of Justice and of Political Liberalism developed by the late John Rawls, and adapt these to the particular requirements of psychotherapy resourcing. I explore some of the implications of this particular analysis, and consider how the principles of Rawlsian justice might translate into ground rules for deliberation and decision-making.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / organization & administration*
  • Health Care Rationing / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Health Care Rationing / organization & administration*
  • Health Care Reform / organization & administration
  • Humans
  • Models, Organizational
  • Policy Making*
  • Public Opinion
  • United Kingdom