Principles of Practice I: Therapeutic Use of Self and Group Dynamics

Catalog description

This is the first course in the 4-part Principles of Practice series that will prepare students for entry-level practice. This course will introduce students to the concept of therapeutic use of self and emphasize its importance in the development of therapeutic rapport and the occupational therapist's ability to carry out the OT process. Students will develop an understanding of the therapeutic use of self in the process of conducting client interviews. In addition, students will be able to apply this skill to the role of facilitator and the use of groups as an intervention strategy. Students will also explore concepts of group dynamics and understand the effects on the ability for a group or population to achieve expected outcomes. The course will discuss social determinants and other contextual factors that may impact overall health and quality of life for groups, populations, or communities. Students will use this information to analyze the needs of specific populations in order to design and construct group-based interventions that will improve engagement and participation. Didactic coursework is coupled with Level I experiences to enhance student learning. Experiences may include simulated environments, standardized patients, faculty practice, faculty-led site visits and/or, supervision by a fieldwork educator in a practice environment.