An exploration of psychological practitioners awareness and knowledge of the menopause, and their experiences of working clinically with menopausal clients

Background: The menopause is a biopsychosocial process that can affect many areas of a woman’s life. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines for the management of the menopause recommends Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for low mood and anxiety. However, research is still growing about the effectiveness of CBT and other psychological therapies in this area, and many gaps in knowledge remain. In the United Kingdom (UK), the menopause has also been identified as a priority area in the Women’s Health Strategy. Aim: The present study aimed to understand the level of awareness and knowledge of the menopause amongst professionals who deliver psychological interventions in statutory services in England. It additionally sought to understand their experiences of working clinically with menopausal clients. Method: Participants were recruited through social media, close contacts and professional bodies. Fifteen participants completed a semi-structured interview conducted online. Data was analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis. Results: Five main themes were constructed: 1) ‘It’s a Yes, No and Maybe’; 2) ‘The School of Life’; 3) ‘A Loud Silence in Services’; 4) ‘Navigating Uneven Terrains’; 5) ‘We Need to Hold Space for the Menopause’. Conclusion: Findings indicated gaps in professional’s knowledge on the menopause, and a lack of education and training on the topic. It also led to an understanding of the strengths and challenges that arose during their clinical work. Recommendations include intervention at the practitioner, provider and systems levels to support staff and address the psychological needs of people experiencing the menopause. The findings could contribute to national efforts to improve the care of women across the lifespan.