Staff experiences of reflective practice groups in a crisis resolution and home treatment team: a mixed methods service evaluation

Crisis Resolution and Home Treatment Teams (CRHTTs) provide mental health support for people experiencing crises and its employees are at high risk of occupational stress. Reflective Practice Groups (RPGs) hold promise for reducing staff burnout. However, to date, there have been no evaluations of RPGs delivered in CRHTT settings. This study aimed to explore staff experiences of RPGs delivered in one CRHTT. All CRHTT staff members who had attended at least one RPG were approached to take part. Participants completed two supervision questionnaires and a semi-structured interview. Descriptive statistics were calculated to quantify staff experiences and qualitative themes were generated using thematic analysis. Thirteen people participated, all of whom reported positive experiences of RPGs. Three qualitative themes also emerged comprising ‘core components of RPGs’ ‘benefits to staff’ and ‘challenges of RPG delivery’. Staff value RPGs delivered in CRHTT settings, which may reduce staff burnout and contribute to workforce development.