Trust, Teamwork, and Empathy (Part 2): Improving Pediatric Therapy Team Dynamics
As healthcare workers, we are all taught that empathy is a cornerstone of the work we do. This includes fostering healthy workplace relationships, especially in environments that require collaboration and emotional resilience. In Part 1 of this blog post, I discuss the challenges that teams face, especially in the healthcare work force, due to compassion fatigue. Now, let’s talk about some solutions.
Brené Brown, in her book Dare to Lead, identifies four essential pillars of empathy that can transform how team members relate to one another. When practiced intentionally, these pillars foster trust, reduce conflict, and create a supportive environment for both staff and the children they serve.
The Four Pillars of Empathy
1. Perspective-Taking
Perspective-taking involves making a conscious effort to see situations from a colleague’s point of view. In a pediatric therapy clinic, team members may have different roles-such as occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, administrative staff, and assistants. Each role comes with unique challenges and pressures. By actively seeking to understand a coworker’s perspective, team members can bridge gaps in understanding and work together more effectively.
2. Staying Nonjudgmental
Remaining nonjudgmental means withholding criticism or assumptions about a teammate’s feelings, actions, or reactions. In the fast-paced, emotionally demanding environment of a pediatric clinic, it’s easy to jump to conclusions about why someone is stressed or frustrated. Practicing nonjudgment creates a safe space for open communication, allowing team members to express concerns or ask for help without fear of being criticized.
3. Understanding and Communicating Emotions
Empathy requires recognizing and validating the emotions of others. This pillar is especially important in a clinic setting, where team members may encounter emotionally charged situations daily. For example, a therapist might feel overwhelmed after a challenging session, or an administrative staff member might be anxious about scheduling conflicts. When colleagues acknowledge and validate each other’s emotions, it builds trust and strengthens the team’s sense of community.
4. Mindfulness
Mindfulness involves being present and attentive to the emotions and needs of others without becoming overwhelmed or disengaged. In a busy clinic, it’s easy to become distracted or emotionally drained. Mindful interactions-such as pausing to check in with a coworker or taking a moment to listen without interrupting-help maintain a supportive and connected team environment.
Impact on Interpersonal Relationships Among Team Members
When team members in a pediatric therapy clinic practice empathy, the benefits are profound:
Enhanced Communication: Empathy encourages open, honest conversations, reducing misunderstandings and promoting clarity.
Reduced Conflict: By understanding and validating each other’s perspectives and emotions, team members can resolve disagreements more constructively.
Increased Support: Empathetic teams are more likely to notice when a colleague is struggling and offer help, reducing burnout and fostering resilience.
Stronger Collaboration: Trust and mutual respect, built through empathy, make it easier for team members to work together toward shared goals.
Practical Ways to Foster Empathy Among Team Members
Engage in Active Listening: Give colleagues your full attention, reflect back what you hear, and avoid interrupting.
Invite Different Perspectives: Encourage team members to share their viewpoints during meetings or informal discussions.
Normalize Emotional Check-Ins: Make it routine to ask how team members are feeling and offer support when needed.
Practice Mindful Interactions: Take brief pauses to connect with coworkers, especially during stressful times.
Recognize Empathetic Actions: Acknowledge and appreciate when team members demonstrate empathy toward one another.
Never Miss a Post! Join our mailing list below: