The Art and Science of Occupational Therapy Practice.

Catalog description

The terms art and science are significant in the practice of occupational therapy. Exploration of these distinct, yet complementary, concepts in relation to occupational participation will help to illuminate the nature of occupation (participation) as a therapeutic intervention. This course will explore a myriad of approaches that address how the process of occupation that is performing activities that are important to the client is of therapeutic benefit. Additionally, concepts such as client-centered practice, the therapeutic use of self, customized intervention, measures of independence, outcomes evaluation, the OT process, the holistic perspective, professional identity, ethics, and OT assumptions for reflective practice will be explored. Students will learn that occupational therapists use both science-based approaches, rooted in empirical evidence, and art-based approaches centered in humanism, to advance the delivery of care. Prerequisite: Admission to the Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program.