Document Type

Capstone

Abstract

Introduction: Burnout is a mental health crisis that can occur when a person is overwhelmed and under-appreciated. The research reports that occupational therapy practitioners (OTs) may self-address burnout through yoga or self-reflection (Costa, 2018). However, the research does not support or deny the use of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to address burnout among OTs. ACT has been established in the research as a frame of reference and intervention to utilize with people experiencing burnout (Reeve et al, 20 I 8). This project aims to provide a basis for future research on the topic of ACT to address burnout among OTs by assessing the interest, knowledge and use of ACT among OTs prior to and following an inservice video. Method: The research problem explored the effectiveness of ACT as a therapeutic approach for addressing burnout among OTs. This capstone project utilized a mixed-method approach to gather data through a virtual needs assessment, pre-test and post-test surveys. The participants included OTs who were members of various occupational therapy-focused Facebook groups, working at the Level II fieldwork site and working in the community. Results: The needs assessment demonstrated a great interest in the topic with 220 participants. While they were aware of burnout and some had experienced burnout, they believed there was a need for more education on the topic. By comparing the post- and pre-survey scores an increase was found in all six measured variables following a viewing of the inservice video. Conclusion: The use of ACT to address burnout among OTs should be explored by further research. However, this Capstone project provides a foundation for future research and exploration into consultative occupational therapy services for therapists experiencing burnout.

Publication Date

4-12-2021

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