Identifying and Implementing Staff Training in Support of Increasing Independent Living Skills in Group Living Environments
Authors:
Brooke Klair, OT/s & Heather Gilbert OT, OTD, OTR
Abstract:
Eliot Community Human Services is a non-profit organization in the greater Boston area serving adults with chronic mental health conditions in Group Living Environments (GLE). Eliot identified a need to better support clients in developing independent living skills to facilitate transitions to lower levels of care. Behavioral Health Specialists (BHS) within Eliot’s GLEs play an integral role in supporting clients. Through interviews and observations, BHS training needs were identified, including education on various forms of participation, client motivation strategies, and the therapeutic benefits of activities. Outcome measure analysis indicated that BHS understood the importance of these strategies, found the information impactful, and reported high likelihood of implementing the suggestions within the GLEs moving forward.
Key Words:
Residential, Mental Health, Training