The State of Psychology in Thailand: A Short History of the Quality vs Quantity Conundrum

Abstract

Historically, mental illness in Thailand was associated with supernatural forces and treated through Thai folklore and Buddhism. The first-generation Thai psychologists, limited in number, mainly worked with children and were trained on the job by senior Thai psychiatrists. The current shortage of psychologists in Thailand presents a significant challenge in addressing the population’s mental health needs, with an estimated one in four Thais experiencing mental health problems at some point in their lives. The shortage of psychologists in Thailand has led to a lack of access to mental health services for individuals, particularly for marginalized populations, and negative consequences for the economy and healthcare system. To address this, policy solutions must prioritize mental health mainstreaming, multi-sectoral approaches, and addressing social determinants of mental health. Additionally, investing in new psychologists in various areas, similar to the funding for training new psychiatrists offered to general practitioners, would alleviate the shortage of certified psychologists. These actions could further lead to a reduction in the treatment gap, improve access to mental health services, and enhance the overall quality of care provided in Thailand.