Therapeutic use of self: a nationwide survey of practitioners' attitudes and experiences

Practitioners' preparation for, attitudes toward, and experience of the therapeutic relationship and use of self were explored using a survey study with a random sample of 1,000 American Occupational Therapy Association members. Participants reported a high value for the therapeutic relationship and use of self; most felt that they were inadequately trained and that the field lacks sufficient knowledge in these areas. Regardless of practitioners' age, gender, experience level, setting, treatment intensity, and client impairment, those who placed higher value on the use of self and had more training related to the therapeutic use of self were more likely to report interpersonal difficulties and feelings of positive regard for clients and were more likely to report concerns about clients. The findings suggest that more attention needs to be paid to the therapeutic relationship and to the therapeutic use of self in education and in research.