MIND THE GAP, INVOLVEMENT OF CLIENTS IN THE THERAPY PROCESS

Background: The last 35 years there has been a gradual paradigm shift in health-care practice, literature and political programs towards client-centered-practice (CCP). However, research has shown that there exists a gap... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
The last 35 years there has been a gradual paradigm shift in health-care practice, literature and political programs towards client-centered-practice (CCP). However, research has shown that there exists a gap between CCP-theory and practice.
Summary:
The symposium encompasses four scientific presentations, elaborating on different aspects of client involvement in the occupational therapy (OT). The purpose is to uncover pitfalls and traps in CCP and give new ideas for avoiding them.
Precise timetable:
In running order: (1) introduction: 5’; (2) pitfalls in CCP (Van de Velde et al, 2015): 15’; (3) coaching towards self-management; lessons learned (Satink et al, 2015): 15’; (4) the inclusion trap: therapeutic collaboration (Harra et al, 2015): 15’; (5) following the gut-feeling in clinical-decision-making: 15’; (6) discussion and questions: 20’; (7) conclusion: 5’.
Method:
Uncovering the gap between CCP-theory and practice was investigated by research groups from The Netherlands, Finland and Belgium in different settings. Discussing the results with the audience aims to co-create in-depth-insights to increase the evolving theory about involving clients in the practice of OT. Results:
Experiences and perceptions concerning the pitfalls and suggested solutions will be collected with the audience in the symposium and in the philosophy of co-construction should lead to the development of new theory.
Conclusion:
New theories might have more impact when co-created together with practice.
Application to Practice:
Shared reasoning is empowering clients to act as an active change agent in OT processes and as a manager of his own life. This process could lead to more excellence.