title: Factors influencing satisfaction and efficacy of services at a free-standing psychiatric occupational therapy clinic.
abstract: As the number of therapists in mental health settings continues to decline, research is needed to explore the scope, satisfaction, and efficacy of services. In this study, we used Patton's (1997) Utilization-Focused Program Evaluation to explore scope of services, therapist and client satisfaction, and perceived efficacy of services in a free-standing community-based mental health occupational therapy clinic. Surveys were administered to 36 clients and 9 therapists and followed up by qualitative interviews with 6 therapists. We identified characteristics unique to a free-standing psychiatric occupational therapy clinic, along with factors contributing to satisfaction and perceived efficacy of services. The importance of a supportive therapeutic environment and emphasis on the therapist-client relationship were cited as key factors influencing both satisfaction and effectiveness of service. Results are presented and compared with the existing literature.
authors.affiliation: Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, St. Catherine University, 2004 Randolph Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55105, USA. klhaertl@stkate.edu
authors.forename: Kristine
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Haertl
authors.forename: Kari
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Behrens
authors.forename: Jill
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Houtujec
authors.forename: Ashley
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Rue
authors.forename: Rachel
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Ten Haken
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002055:Burnout, Professional / Q000523:psychology; D003155:Community Mental Health Centers / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009788:Occupational Therapy / Q000458:organization & administration*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D015397:Program Evaluation; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012951:Socialization; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000523:psychology; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult