Cultivating Therapeutic Presence: A Pilot Project

Abstract

Purpose: Cultivating therapeutic presence is a pilot project for addressing perceived stress in a group of holistic healthcare workers. Design and Methods: The project incorporated mindfulness-based interventions, self-care techniques, and the establishment of supportive relationships. It was presented during the COVID pandemic to integrative health care workers at a children's hospital. Findings: There was an overall improvement in perceived stress scores across the series, with an effect size estimated by Cohen's d = .963, consistent with a large effect. Participants reported persistent effects on a survey administered five months after completion of the project, which included feeling more confident, using the techniques, and more effectively caring for themselves. Conclusions: This project integrated mindfulness-based interventions with self-care techniques, as well as strengthening support networks. Upon completion, perceived stress decreased, a finding that persisted for several months.