Evidence supports the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions in improving components of recovery for adults with serious mental illness

Assessment practices of Canadian occupational therapists working with adults with mental disorders

“…This study shows the common use of a symptom measure, such as the BDI (Beck et al, 1996), and suggests intent to document the impact of occupational therapy interventions on client symptoms. However, recent studies suggest that symptom measures may not be accurate measures of functional improvement (see Schene, Koeter, Kikkert, Swinkels, & McCrone, 2007; Urlic & Williamson, 2012). Indeed, recovery measures and community reengagement measures have been shown to better correspond with the goals of occupational therapy interventions (see Schene et al, 2007; Urlic & Williamson, 2012).…”

“…However, recent studies suggest that symptom measures may not be accurate measures of functional improvement (see Schene, Koeter, Kikkert, Swinkels, & McCrone, 2007; Urlic & Williamson, 2012). Indeed, recovery measures and community reengagement measures have been shown to better correspond with the goals of occupational therapy interventions (see Schene et al, 2007; Urlic & Williamson, 2012). Our study findings suggest that the profession may benefit by having occupational therapists be more vigilant in documenting client recovery.…”

Occupational therapy intervention in mental health should be individualised, occupation focussed, promote inclusion and occur in the context of an authentic relationship

“…This research synthesis builds on quantitative systematic reviews of mental health practice (Arbesman & Logsdon, ; Gibson, D'Amico, Jaffe & Arbesman, ) that found some evidence for the effectiveness of social skills training, supported employment, supported education and daily activities. A critique of these reviews called for research to demonstrate the value of “…flexible, individualised, collaborative, and recovery‐oriented approaches” (Urlic & Williamson, , p. 333) in occupational therapy. This review goes some way to achieving this goal.…”