Occupational performance coaching: goal barriers and beneficial facilitators

Abstract

Background/aimsOccupational performance coaching is a family-centred approach that helps mothers who have children with occupational performance challenges. This study sought to identify the barriers and facilitators to goal achievement and engagement with occupational performance coaching based on the experiences of mothers of children with cerebral palsy who were receiving occupational performance coaching.MethodsThis qualitative study was embedded within a randomised control trial. Twelve mothers of children with cerebral palsy who had received occupational performance coaching were interviewed using a semi-structured interview technique. Their responses were analysed using inductive content analysis.ResultsThe most important barriers to goal achievement and engagement with coaching were societal, family-related and mother-related factors. The facilitators were new resources, family cohesion, mother-related factors and child-related factors.ConclusionsDifferent factors can affect the outcomes of occupational performance coaching based on the viewpoint of mothers of children with cerebral palsy. Occupational therapists should consider societal, family and individual factors when using this intervention with clients.