Peer- Reviewed Journal Article

           The article “Incorporating Occupational Therapy Group Treatment in Long-Term Care” allowed me to dig deeper into the benefits of group occupational therapy treatment sessions and the group process. Due to the new prospective payment system (PPS), rehabilitation departments are searching for more cost-effective measures of providing the same quality services to their patients. The emphasis of group dynamics on individual treatment can be used for cost containment.  This article looked into the pros and cons of group occupational therapy treatment versus the traditional direct one-on-one relationship between client and therapist.

In group sessions, therapists are able to assess behavior in a group setting, monitor the quality of interactions, and assess functional communication skills. In addition, the therapist can observe how clients work with other individuals as a team to complete a project and assess their frustration to tolerance, problem-solving ability, and interpersonal skills to determine how they will perform in their life roles outside of the treatment arena. Group therapy sessions can be beneficial to carry-over in real life situations.

            From the article, I learned that the primary concern therapists have when discussing implementation of group therapy is how to combine residents with different diagnoses and those in different stages of recovery into one common functional activity and still progress each individual goals. I found this concern very interesting because when leading my group sessions, I had concerns about this as well. How do I shift focus from the group’s group to work on individual goals of my clients? I think it is important to conduct group sessions that are not too large and have assistance from another professional when needed. This way that you can appropriately document clients, make sure clients are meeting individual goals, and address safety concerns.

            This article was a good and informative read. I learned so much about the benefit of doing group treatment sessions. I like how the article pointed out that in group sessions, the clients are able to receive support from others who are in their same position. It is important for me as a future OT to always encourage and support my clients no matter the setting. Knowing that you are not alone and have support can be a huge motivator for clients.

            In additional, as a future occupational therapy practitioner, this article is a great reference to use as I transition into practice. The article clearly explains the group process, areas of strength, and areas of concern. For future practice, I now know strategies and ways to prepare for group sessions.  I must be mindful and always use discretion when prescribing group therapy to ensure that my clients receive appropriate quality care that advances them steadily toward their goals.

Reference:

Spilak, C. L. (1999). Incorporating occupational therapy group treatment in long-term care. Top Geriatric Rehabilitation, 15(2), 48-55. Retrieved from http://eds.b.ebscohost.com/eds/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=2&sid=a6d4456f-099c-49ba-bf78-f84a5c365107%40sessionmgr103