Maximizing worker outcomes through integrating practitioner strength development

Visley, J.; St. Peters, H., &  Rivera, Andrew D. (2022) Maximizing worker outcomes through integrating practitioner strength development, SIS Quarterly Practice Connections, 7(4).

Occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) often encounter burnout in the workplace (Edwards, 2010). In fact, many health care workers experienced even greater feelings of burnout in reaction to the pandemic (Borusiak et al., 2022). To offset the negative impact of burnout and better serve client needs, OTPs can revitalize their practice by relying on their individual strengths. Focusing on strengths first emerged with positive psychology (e.g., Dubreuil et al., 2016; Peterson & Seligman, 2004). The positive psychology movement transitioned attention from a deficit model (i.e., problem orientation) to a strengths-based model (e.g., growth, talent-orientation; Clifton & Harter, 2003; Peterson & Seligman, 2004). Many OTPs rely on strengths-based model conversations to foster growth in their clients, and it is not uncommon for these conversations to take place in a variety of contexts, including the work and industry practice setting. However, recognizing their individual personal strengths as an asset may not naturally occur while OTPs are engaging in practice. Enhancing personal strength awareness and integrating those strengths into practice may help OTPs meet responsibilities outlined in the American Occupational Therapy Associations (AOTA's) Occupational Therapy Practice Framework: Domain & Process (4th ed.; 2020) such as identifying work opportunities based on goals and interests, advocating for oneself, determining aptitudes, and maintaining required work skills.