A STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODEL OF THERAPEUTIC COMMUNICATION SKILLS AMONG CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS WORKING WITH CANCER AND CHRONIC ILLNESS PATIENTS

Communication skills are, in a way, a core part of having a solid therapeutic relationship especially for psychologists who are working with people dealing with persistent chronic illnesses and cancer. When therapeutic communication is effective it can help with psychological adjustment, keep people sticking with treatment, and improve the overall quality of care. Communication skills constitute a fundamental component of effective therapeutic relationships, particularly among psychologists working with patients with cancer and chronic illnesses. This study aimed to examine therapeutic communication skills among clinical psychologists and to investigate the predictive role of demographic and professional variables. Method:  A descriptive predictive cross-sectional design was employed; The sample consisted of 320 psychologists working in psychiatric clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and counseling settings, Data were collected online using the Health Professionals Communication Skills Scale (HP-CSS). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, MANOVA, multiple regression analysis, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Statistical analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS and AMOS software. The findings revealed high overall communication skills among psychologists (M = 174.88, SD = 9.53). Empathy demonstrated the highest mean score (M = 54.20, SD = 5.42), followed by social skills (M = 53.82, SD = 3.46). Significant differences were identified according to workplace (F = 2.52, p = .012) and academic level (F = 2.13, p = .034). Regression analysis indicated that workplace (β = −.14, p = .012) and academic level (β = −.12, p = .034) significantly predicted communication skills, whereas gender, specialization, and years of experience were not significant predictors. The structural equation model demonstrated satisfactory fit indices (χ²/df = 2.11, CFI = .95, TLI = .94, RMSEA = .05), supporting the four-dimensional structure of the scale. Conclusion:  Professional and educational contexts play a significant role in shaping therapeutic communication skills among psychologists working with cancer and chronic illness patients.