Workplace mental health: Current practice and support needs of Ontario occupational therapists

Workplace mental health (WMH) is an important and expanding practice area for occupational therapists.

This cross-sectional study explores the current practices and support needs of Ontario-based occupational therapists in WMH.

Registrants from the provincial association who provide mental health and/or work-related services were invited to participate. Ninety-three therapists completed an online survey; 10 participated in follow-up focus groups. Analysis involved descriptive statistics of the survey data and content analysis of the focus group data.

Return to work, reactivation, and functional cognitive assessment were the most commonly reported services. Key challenges were limited funding and training and lack of awareness of the occupational therapy role. Therapists emphasized the importance of raising the competence, credibility, and profile of occupational therapy in WMH.

Defining the role of occupational therapy, developing training and resources, and advocacy are needed to advance occupational therapy practice within this rapidly changing field.