BACKGROUND: Client-centred practice embraces important concepts about partnership and justice that promote client participation in meaningful occupations. It is important to understand how occupational therapists can engage in and continue to develop client-centred practice within the constraints of everyday settings. PURPOSE AND METHODS: An action research study was undertaken by a group of four occupational therapists to describe insights gained, and to show the effectiveness of participation in reflective education to help foster client-centred practice. RESULTS: The six main insights generated by the group involve: congruence, understanding the potential, environmental factors, personal factors, expectations, and lifelong learning. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Although actual change to daily practice was limited, group members felt the reflective group discussion provided them with a launch pad to start a journey toward more client-centred practice. This may be the key to moving beyond simply changing the face and language of occupational therapy practice toward a deeper understanding and implementation of client-centred practice to improve client outcomes. Suggestions are provided for implementing reflection to help continue to develop your own practice.
BACKGROUND: Client-centred practice embraces important concepts about partnership and justice that promote client participation in meaningful occupations. It is important to understand how occupational therapists can engage in and continue to develop client-centred practice within the constraints of everyday settings. PURPOSE AND METHODS: An action research study was undertaken by a group of four occupational therapists to describe insights gained, and to show the effectiveness of participation in reflective education to help foster client-centred practice. RESULTS: The six main insights generated by the group involve: congruence, understanding the potential, environmental factors, personal factors, expectations, and lifelong learning. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Although actual change to daily practice was limited, group members felt the reflective group discussion provided them with a launch pad to start a journey toward more client-centred practice. This may be the key to moving beyond simply changing the face and language of occupational therapy practice toward a deeper understanding and implementation of client-centred practice to improve client outcomes. Suggestions are provided for implementing reflection to help continue to develop your own practice.