Exploring the perceptions of occupational therapists and creative practitioners on the use of arts-informed interventions with oncology clients

Abstract

Background: Creative and arts-informed practices are increasingly recognised as supportive approaches within healthcare, particularly for individuals living with long-term conditions such as cancer. These approaches may offer opportunities for emotional expression, identity exploration, and engagement in meaningful occupation. Despite growing interest in arts informed practices, limited research has explored how occupational therapists and creative practitioners understand their role in oncology care, including whether collaboration between these professions is feasible or supported within healthcare systems. Aims: This study aimed to explore how occupational therapists and creative practitioners perceive the use of arts-informed interventions in supporting individuals living with cancer, and to examine opportunities and challenges related to interdisciplinary collaboration. Method: A qualitative design was used. Three semi-structured focus groups were conducted with eleven participants, including occupational therapists working in oncology services and creative practitioners engaged in arts-based practice. The final focus group included participants from both professions together. Discussions explored participants’ experiences, perceptions, and views regarding creative engagement in oncology care. Data were analysed using thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke (2006). Findings: Participants described creative practices as supporting emotional expression, identity, and meaningful engagement for individuals living with cancer. However, they emphasised that such interventions must remain client-centred and introduced sensitively, as not all patients may feel comfortable engaging in creative activities. Professional identity, clinical reasoning, and role boundaries emerged as important considerations, alongside the emotional demands of working in oncology contexts. Participants also highlighted the potential for collaboration between occupational therapists and creative practitioners, while recognising the need for clear role definitions and mutual professional respect. Discussion: The findings suggest that arts-informed practices may contribute to more holistic and person-centred oncology care by supporting engagement in meaningful occupations alongside medical treatment. Collaborative approaches between occupational therapists and creative practitioners may help integrate creative practices within oncology services while maintaining the occupational therapist’s role in facilitating meaningful participation and wellbeing.