Bricks and Mortar: Building a Culture of Reflection During Uncertain Times

In an effort to create a culture of reflection and best practice within infant, child and family serving organizations, research has suggested a necessary shift from solely administrative and clinical supervision toward the creation of a culture and organizational climate that builds reflective capacity and strengthens professional competence (Gilkerson & Shahmoon-Shanok, 2000).  This presentation will illustrate how a County Mental Health Department strategically laid the “bricks and mortar” to build an organizational architecture of reflective practice with the goal of improving outcomes for the children, youth and families.

Presenters from a County Mental Health Department will discuss its adoption of reflective practice as a supportive framework for staff.  This undertaking is a philosophical and cultural shift in which the organization endeavors through a parallel process to provide a nurturing work environment to support and enhance staff well-being while emphasizing the provision of high-quality services to the county’s highest risk populations.

In the initial phase, a 5-tiered reflective practice facilitation model was implemented in which upper management through direct service staff participate in individual and/or group reflective practice mentorship.  This includes administrative and clinical elements.  Endorsed Reflective Practice Facilitators provide the foundational support and scaffolding. The second phase of implementation includes reflective practice groups for the Department Directors, Pediatricians, Child Psychiatrists, and administrative and clerical staff.

Presenters will describe how they set the foundation for reflective practice and created a culture of reflection within their organization.  Concrete strategies and practical guidance will be offered.  Challenges and successes will highlight lessons learned.