Minimizing Risk From Workplace Violence in Creative Arts Therapy

Abstract

Contributing factors to occurrences of workplace violence (WPV) vary based on the setting and clientele. While no workplace can be guaranteed free from potential violence, research shows that agencies and creative arts therapists (CATs) can use preventative measures to increase workplace safety. To illustrate the impact of WPV, three CATs share their experiences of being assaulted by clients and, based on best practices, eight protective factors are presented. These factors are: staff relationships, culture of safety, clear reporting and communication, environmental safety, training, duty to protect, resilience, and follow up.

Keywords:

• Workplace violence
• trauma
• client violence
• risk assessment
• environmental safety
• post-crisis care