Promoting Occupational Justice and Holistic Healthcare: Education and Training on Sexuality and Intimacy in Rehabilitation

Abstract

Literature shows most healthcare professionals regardless of clinical context recognize the importance of sexual health but fail to routinely address it with clients. Barriers to addressing sexuality and intimacy include a lack of knowledge, training, comfort, and bias. The capstone student collaborated with a local rehabilitation hospital and found a gap in services that most rehabilitation therapists (occupational therapists, physical therapists, and speech therapists) lack the knowledge, comfort, and resources to address sexuality and intimacy regularly. If clients do not receive skilled rehabilitative services to promote participation in sexuality and intimacy, then they may be left with major misinformation and misconceptions that put them at risk for occupational injustice. The capstone student and site worked collaboratively to provide therapists with evidence-based educational seminars and resources in order to increase therapist knowledge and comfort with addressing this topic and promote holistic healthcare. Results of the capstone project indicated statistically significant increases in therapist comfort with screening/assessing, providing interventions, and providing resources specific to sexuality and intimacy concerns. Overall, the capstone project promoted occupational justice for current and future clients through the inclusion of sexuality and intimacy education and practices within the rehabilitation department.