Activity 3: Training Session for Occupational Therapists

As part of the Erasmus+ project “Mind-up – Competence Development for Mental Health Professionals” (Project No. 2023-1-RO01-KA210-VET-000166400), an intensive four-day training session was organized in Timișoara, Romania, targeting occupational therapists working with institutionalized adults in the field of mental health.

🎯 Objective of the activity

The training aimed to enhance practical skills and introduce innovative intervention methods to support autonomy, emotional self-regulation, and social inclusion of adults with severe mental health conditions. Through a hands-on and collaborative approach, participants improved their therapeutic practices and explored how to tailor interventions to the real needs of their beneficiaries.

🛠️ Structure and content

Over four days, participants engaged in:

  • Practical workshops and demonstrations of occupational therapy techniques;
  • Case studies, applied exercises, and reflective discussions;
  • A professional field visit to the Psychiatry and Security Measures Hospital in Jebel, including interaction with staff and observation of therapeutic activities in a real clinical setting.

Key topics addressed included:

  • Development of social and communication skills;
  • Coping mechanisms and emotional self-regulation strategies;
  • Promoting independence through daily routines and life skills;
  • Use of creative techniques (modeling, therapeutic percussion, sensory activities) in therapy.

✅ Expected outcomes

The training strengthened participants’ professional competences and provided them with practical tools that can be transferred into their daily practice. This activity contributes to the project’s overarching goal of modernizing occupational therapy education, promoting person-centered approaches, and improving the quality of mental health services for institutionalized adults.

📍 Location: Timișoara, Romania & Psychiatry and Security Measures Hospital Jebel
👥 Participants: 12 occupational therapists from partner organizations