Mrs Heather So1, Prof Lynette Mackenzie, Dr Chris Chapparo, Dr Judy Ranka, Prof Mary Ann McColl
1University Of Sydney, Australia
Biography:
Heather graduated from the University of Sydney in 2007 with a Bachelor of Applied Science (OT). She started becoming more interested in addressing spirituality because of her experiences as a mother, and from feeling unprepared in discussions with her clients. She is doing her PhD at the University of Sydney, studying how Australian occupational therapists integrate client spirituality into clinical practice.
Abstract:
Introduction:
International research shows that clients may discuss their spirituality with health professionals as they face the hard existential questions posed by morbidity and mortality. Despite this, there is little research into what spiritual topics Australian clients are raising with their occupational therapist in clinical practice.
Objectives:
To ask Australian occupational therapists how their clients have discussed their spirituality with them in clinical practice.
Method:
Semi-structured interviews of twenty-three Australian occupational therapists were undertaken. A phenomenological qualitative research methodology focused on participants' stories of client spiritual topics. Data analysis was undertaken using Reflexive Thematic Analysis, and client topics were organised into themes.
Results:
There were five main topics discussed by clients with their occupational therapists, which included Distress, Need, Identity, Strength and Transformation. Distress was described as extreme existential questioning and loss of hope, and was often reported in response to either acute or cumulative trauma. Spiritual need was seen in access requests, in relation to a health event, and in relation to a community conflict. Identity client statements were regarding religious affiliation or core occupations. Sources of client spiritual strength were discussed as personal rituals and community support. Finally, a rarer event of spiritual transformation was described as religious conversion or spiritual awakening events in a client’s life.
Conclusion:
Australian clients discussed a wide range of spiritual topics, and these discussions were multifaceted and sometimes challenging. Australian occupational therapists may benefit from more professional resources that reflects the range of these client discussions.