This experiential workshop is for OTs working in Older Adult Mental Health and Wellbeing services. The day will explore why and how groups are run by OTs, using a recovery-orientated, occupation-centred approach. Participants will experience groupwork in action. They will develop a clear understanding of the need for robust rationales around groups, drawing on evidence, theory and consumer-identified occupational prioritise. Skills in group facilitation, evaluation and reflection will be practised throughout the workshop.
This is the third workshop in a series being delivered to OTs working within Mental Health and Wellbeing services across Victoria via Communities of Practice.
Learning Objectives
At the end of this training, participating OTs will be able to:
- Understand and articulate the WHY of running groups, drawing on contemporary evidence, OT theories and consumer priorities for wellbeing.
- Understand the necessity of evaluating outcomes of groups
- Include reflection and co-reflection into practice when facilitating groups.
- Strengthen the connection and identity of OTs working with Older Adults in Mental Health Services.
Co-Facilitators:
- Emily Miranda – Northern Health – Group Program Team Leader, Occupational Therapist
- Naomi Parkes – Victorian Collaborative Centre for Mental Health and Wellbeing – Statewide Mental Health Occupational Therapy Educator
Eligibility criteria:
This workshop is designed for mental health occupational therapists working in Victorian Public Mental Health Older Adult settings. Priority is given to occupational therapists working in any regional setting. It is intended that this OT Groups training will be rolled out statewide to settings aligned with OT Community of Practices.
These are free events designed for members of the public clinical mental health workforce in Victoria, (staff employed at Area Mental Health Services, Forensicare or mental health staff from RCH) and lived experience workforces (LEW) working in either public clinical or community mental health state-funded roles. Other workforce in partner organisations, such as AOD organisations or ACCHOs, may sometimes be eligible.