DOI: 10.1177/03080226261461172 ISSN: 0308-0226

MenTOras: Study protocol for a peer mentorship program to support the professional integration of recently graduated occupational therapists

Sandra León-Herrera, Enrique Villa-Berges, Rafael Sánchez-Arizcuren, María Cristina Ruiz-Garrós, Marta Marín-Berges
Show PDF Cite

Background:

Occupational therapy (OT) in Spain faces challenges of limited visibility and professional integration, particularly for newly graduated therapists. Early years of practice are often marked by isolation and the absence of structured mentorship, hindering skill consolidation and professional identity. Peer mentorship has shown promise internationally as a supportive strategy, but formal programs in Spain remain scarce. This study protocol presents MenTOras , a pilot peer mentorship program designed to enhance professional integration, emotional well-being, and self-confidence among newly graduated occupational therapists in Aragón, Spain.

Methods:

A mixed-methods, quasi-experimental pilot study without a control group will be conducted. Around 20 mentor–mentee pairs will be recruited through the regional professional association. The program comprises six structured mentorship sessions across three phases: initiation, development, and closure. Data will be collected at baseline, post-program, and 6-month follow-up, including quantitative measures of integration, well-being, confidence, and satisfaction, complemented by qualitative interviews.

Results:

Findings will assess feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of the program, and identify mechanisms through which mentorship supports professional growth.

Conclusion:

MenTOras addresses a key gap in Spanish OT by providing a structured, context-sensitive mentorship model. Outcomes will inform future initiatives to strengthen retention, professional identity, and visibility within the healthcare system.

More from our Archive