Conference poster presentation

This poster describes the implementation of a skill based training programme, in personal management, for patients functioning at the Self Presentation level of the VdT Model of Creative Ability.

Occupational Therapy assessment across the male and female wards concluded that just over two thirds of patients within the acute in-patient services were identified as having difficulties in personal management with some reporting lacking skills in this area being a lifelong problem.

A protocol was developed outlining treatment aims, length of sessions, preparation required and session content. The implementation of treatment principles as advised by the VdT Model of Creative Ability were also considered and embedded within the session content and delivery. Structured treatment sessions were delivered weekly with additional 1:1 support to apply skills learnt in to daily life.

The poster concludes with some observed outcomes. The sessions were well received with opportunities to reinforce or expand skills and patients were willing to share experiences. An additional benefit was the increased likelihood of a patient’s attendance to other relevant Occupational Therapy interventions.    

The poster finally highlights the potential for a research project to investigate the relevance of this type of skill training in an acute in-patient setting.