An exploration of client-centred practice in occupational therapy: perspectives and impact

[摘要] Client-centred practice underpins Occupational Therapy and is defined as a partnership between the client and therapist that empowers a client to fulfil his/her occupational roles in a variety of environments. Given the importance of this approach, there has been limited exploration of what therapists and clients experience of this approach. A mixed method design examining the view of the clients and therapists was undertaken using; a systematic review to examine worldwide evidence of a clientcentred outcomes measure, a survey of a sample of therapists’ experiences and individual client and therapist interviews. Findings from this programme of work revealed that the clients’ perspective of client-centred practice was the value they placed on the attitude and behaviour of the therapist, communicating respect and treating them as equals. Therapists valued partnership but were challenged in establishing a relationship with the client and failed to negotiate goals with them. Using a client-centred outcomes measure (the COPM) reinforced partnership, demonstrated joint goal setting and evaluated client satisfaction. Implications for practice; training needed in client-centred practice, theoretical models, interviewing, risk assessment, goal negotiation and use of outcome measures. Communication, use of language and documentation should be clientcentred and reflect the client’s needs.

[发布机构] University:University of Birmingham;Department:School of Health and Population Sciences

[关键词] R Medicine;R Medicine (General)