Roberto Maluenda-Gatica
Thesis title: The Use of Synchronous Videoconference in Bipolar Patients: A Novel Study on Therapist Mentalization Capacity, Therapeutic Process, and Efficacy within Videoconferencing Psychotherapy (VCP) Intervention Context

PhD supervisors:
Address
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Doorway 6
Old Medical Building
Teviot Place - City
- Edinburgh
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- EH8 9AG
Background
Before starting my PhD journey, I earned my MSc in Psychiatric Research at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN) at King's College London in 2017. My academic pursuits began earlier with completing a Master's in Clinical Psychology at Andrés Bello University in Chile in 2012.
Throughout my professional career, I have focused on improving the lives of individuals grappling with severe mental illnesses. From 2012 to 2016, I dedicated my efforts to the Acute Psychiatric Day Hospital in Quilpue, Chile, providing essential outpatient treatment to patients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. During this period, I honed my skills in psychiatric rehabilitation and implemented the pioneering Integrated Psychological Therapy (IPT) in the Chilean healthcare landscape.
I am currently immersed in my doctoral studies in Clinical Psychology at the University of Edinburgh, UK. In my ongoing research, I am particularly interested in psychotherapy research emphasising digital mental health. My research pursuits are specially tailored to explore the efficacy and effectiveness of digital mental health interventions within the context of severe mental illnesses. Additionally, I am interested in delving into the intricacies of the patient experience and engagement, which are known to significantly influence treatment adherence, therapeutic alliance and overall outcomes.
Furthermore, my research extends into cultural sensitivity and its far-reaching implications. I aim to unravel how these cultural nuances can be harnessed to tailor treatment plans and interventions, addressing individual needs and preferences. My ultimate goal is to contribute to the scalability of these interventions, making quality mental healthcare accessible to a broader population transcending cultural boundaries.
Qualifications
2016-2017 Master of Science in Psychiatric Research, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
2014-2015 Diploma (PGDip) in Mental Health for Public Health, School of Medicine, Universidad de Valparaíso, Chile
2010-2012 Master in Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Nacional Andrés Bello, Chile
2005-2010 BA Bachelor (Hons) in Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Nacional Andrés Bello, Chile
2002-2005 BA Bachelor in Humanities and Social Sciences, Faculty of Education and Social Sciences, Universidad Nacional Andrés Bello, Chile
Research summary
My research in digital mental health within the context of severe mental illnesses encompasses several key areas. I emphasise the importance of the therapeutic alliance in digital settings and investigate its impact on treatment outcomes. My research evaluates the effectiveness of digital interventions compared to traditional therapy and emphasises user experience and engagement. I am committed to cultural sensitivity, personalising interventions, and exploring the potential of machine learning and AI. I also study mobile apps and wearables, various teletherapy modalities, remote monitoring, and blended care. Cost-effectiveness, regulatory and ethical considerations, user training, and scalability of digital interventions are central to my research objectives.