Title

The Effects of a High Acuity Mental Health Intake Department on Assessment Counselors’ Health

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D)

Department

Counseling

Date of Award

Fall 2022

Abstract

Although little research has been conducted regarding the health and quality of life among acute, inpatient mental health intake counselors, the literature reports there are several protective factors that contribute to one’s ability to achieve and maintain a positive quality of life. The purpose of the study was to identify the effects of a high acuity mental health intake department on assessment counselors’ quality of life and overall health by utilizing a demographic information instrument and the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) tool. Quality of life, which includes physical health, psychological health, and social relationships were investigated by using a descriptive quantitative research design. Of the three factors of quality of life, physical health was found to be an overall predictor for acute, inpatient intake counselors’ ability to achieve quality of life. These findings indicate the need for further training and resources encouraging a healthy work-life balance among acute, inpatient mental health intake counselors, as well as a need for advocating for the health and wellbeing of these mental health professionals in the counseling field.

Advisor

Edith Gonzalez

Subject Categories

Counseling | Social and Behavioral Sciences

COinS