Collaborative Relationship-Focused Occupational Therapy: Evolving Lexicon and Practice

Abstract

Background.: Client-centred practice has been part of occupational therapists’ identity for several decades. However, therapists have begun to question whether the term obstructs critical relational aspects of therapy. Purpose.: The purpose of this article is to summarize critiques of the use of the term client-centred and propose an expanded descriptor and a fundamental shift in how occupational therapists engage with individuals, families, groups, communities, and populations. Key Issues.: Three themes summarize critiques of how client-centred practice has been envisioned: (a) the language of client-centred, (b) insufficient appreciation of how the therapist affects the relationship, and (c) inadequate consideration of the relational context of occupation. We propose collaborative relationship-focused practice that has key relational elements of being contextually relevant, nuanced, and safe, and promotes rights-based self-determination. Conclusion.: We argue that these essential relational elements, along with a focus on occupations, are required to promote occupational participation, equity, and justice.