Introduction / Rationale: The growing demand for competent mental health professionals highlights the need to enhance the training of Occupational Therapy (OT) students. At the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, there is a recognized opportunity to better prepare students to address mental health challenges effectively.
Objectives: This project aimed to improve OT students’ clinical skills, confidence, and clinical reasoning while reducing stigmatization toward individuals with mental illness (MI) through targeted educational interventions.
Methods / Approach: The project implemented case-based learning (CBL) in collaboration with local mental health service providers, who supplied real-life case scenarios. Through CBL sessions and supervised clinical placements, students engaged in hands-on practice, including interviewing, assessing, and treating individuals with MI. Supervision was provided by part-time Clinical Associates to ensure guided learning and skill development.
Results / Practice Implications: Over 80% of participating students reported a confidence level of 6 or higher (on a 10-point scale) following the project. The approach enhanced students’ clinical reasoning and practical skills, while also fostering a more positive attitude toward individuals with MI, potentially improving future mental health service delivery.
Conclusion / Contribution to the Occupational Therapy Profession: This project demonstrates that integrating CBL with real-world clinical exposure can effectively prepare OT students to meet the mental health needs of diverse populations. It contributes to the profession by offering a replicable model for reducing stigma and building competency in mental health practice among future occupational therapists.