Solution-Focused Coaching in Pediatric Rehabilitation: Perceived Therapist Impact

Abstract

Aims: This qualitative descriptive study explored perceived impacts of solution-focused coaching in pediatric rehabilitation (SFC-peds) from the viewpoint of experienced therapists.

Methods: Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with six participants (four occupational therapists and two physical therapists) who had incorporated SFC-peds into their practice for three years or longer. Participants were asked to describe perceived differences SFC-peds has made to their clinical practice, service provision, and relationships with clients and families. Interview transcripts were analyzed using the method of thematic analysis.

Results: Three major themes, each with subthemes, were identified: 1) changes in therapists’ perception of their roles; 2) increased service effectiveness; and 3) enhanced client capacity. Through long-term engagement with SFC-peds, participants have experienced a role shift from an expert adviser to a collaborative facilitator who assists clients and families with capacity building and self-discovery of solutions for their everyday environments.

Conclusions: The findings suggest that SFC-peds can help participants reframe professional expertise and integrate principles of family-centred care into their day-to-day practice. Individual- and system-level support, along with flexibility in service structures and processes, may be needed to further the implementation of SFC-peds in service delivery.

Keywords:

• Solution-focused coaching
• pediatric rehabilitation
• therapists
• thematic analysis

Acknowledgments

We would like to thank the study participants and Heather Cruickshank for her assistance with coding.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This project was supported by funding from the Centre for Leadership in Participation and Inclusion at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital. Heidi Schwellnus was supported by a postdoctoral fellowship from the Research Chair for Cerebral Palsy from Laval University. Gillian King holds the Canada Research Chair in Optimal Care for Children with Disabilities, funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. This chair is supported by matching funds from the Kimel Family Opportunities Fund through the Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation.