Introduction/Rationale: The shift of the occupational therapy internship to an online set up during the pandemic brought challenges to the professional practice of graduates. Recent graduates, including graduates of online learning, were found to lack confidence and competence in decision-making and empathy due to their limited experience in clinical practice. Clinical mentorship can be seen as a solution to this emerging challenge in OT practice.
Objectives: This study developed a formal clinical mentorship program that could easily be adapted by therapy clinics in the Philippines. This study specifically aimed to: a) create a “mentee-focused” program that allows the participants to enhance their individual skills, and b) create a mentorship program guidebook that could help potential mentors administer a program in different therapy clinics in the Philippines.
Methods / Approach: This study utilized a mixed method study design that followed the ADDIE model used in instructional design to develop a mentorship guidebook. A total of 3 mentee-mentor partners participated in the pilot test to evaluate the program and the guidebook. Results of the study were analyzed using thematic analysis and descriptive statistics.
Results / Practice Implications: A 23-page guidebook on mentorship was developed. Results of the pilot test show that the guidebook and the program have acceptable usability and utility to the field of occupational therapy.
Conclusion / Contribution to the occupational therapy profession: Although the guidebook is still in its early stages, it shows potential in helping to enhance the clinical competence of OTs by providing a structured program that can be used for mentorship in therapy clinics well beyond the pandemic.