A review of evidence on the conceptual elements informing client-centred practice

Abstract

Background: Client-centred practice is a central concept in occupational therapy in Canada. Since 1980, Canadian occupational therapy publications have discussed the elements of a client-centred practice approach.

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to enhance the understanding of key elements of a client-centred approach and to highlight the implications for practice that arise from this discussion.

Method: Literature about client-centred practice in health care from 1990 - 2005 was reviewed regarding thoughts and ideas about client-centred practice. The content was analyzed for thematic focus about client-centred practice conceptual ideas and their influence on practice.

Results: Thematic conceptual elements emerging from the review include an overarching theme of power, with important underpinning themes of listening and communicating, partnership, choice, and hope. Selected definitions of client-centred practice and the link to best practice provide the context for the presentation of the concepts and recommendations for the implementation of client-centred practice.

Practice implications: The paper concludes with a discussion of practice implications through the presentation of questions for therapists to consider as a quick reference tool and suggestions for further research and dialogue concerning client-centred practice.