Evaluating the Feasibility of an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Protocol for Burnout in Health Care Professionals: A Single-Case Study

Abstract

Burnout, characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced accomplishment, is prevalent among healthcare workers, who face challenges in seeking treatment due to psychological and practical barriers. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) has shown promise in addressing burnout by promoting psychological flexibility and value-driven behaviors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary outcomes of an ACT-based intervention adapted from a self-help program for healthcare workers experiencing burnout, delivered through therapist-guided face-to-face sessions using a single-case experimental design. The study consisted of two separate stages with two participants. An 8-session ACT-based intervention protocol was applied, incorporating the Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT), Acceptance and Action Questionnaire II, Valuing Questionnaire, and personalized daily questions. Following the completion of Stage 1, the study proceeded to Stage 2 with some modifications. Results were evaluated using visual analysis, Tau-U, and the Reliable Change Index (RCI). Results from the Stage 1 indicated a significant decrease only in the BAT score, reflecting reduced burnout. Regarding daily measures, significant increases were observed in contact with values and experiential avoidance scores. In Stage 2, RCI analysis revealed a significant decrease only in the BAT score. However, Tau-U analysis of the daily questions indicated significant decreases in being present, experiential avoidance, and rumination-worry scores, and a significant increase in the valued living 1 score. The findings indicate that the self-help protocol may be feasible and acceptable, but further research is needed to confirm these findings