Spirituality in Occupational Therapy Practice According to New Graduates

Occupational therapy practitioners consider spirituality to be significant in affecting the process and outcome of occupational therapy; however, many therapists voice confusion and concern about its application within their practice. This study aimed to describe the personal definition of spirituality of young occupational therapy practitioners and their perspectives on its application to their practice. The data were collected using a self-prepared questionnaire with both opened and close questions. Thirty-five young occupational therapists, engaged in postprofessional master’s degree, were interviewed. We used mixed-method study for data analysis. Most respondents defined spirituality as a driving force, which shapes many aspects of life. More than half of the respondents considered spirituality as crucial in forming therapeutic relationships. The findings suggest that inclusion of spirituality within occupational therapy education warrants further research.