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psychodynamic conceptual model and psychoanalytic theories in occupational therapy practice in mental health.
Dear colleagues,
We are occupational therapists involved in the Mental Health Reflection Group of the French National Association of Occupational Therapists.
We are currently reflecting on the place of the psychodynamic conceptual model and psychoanalytic theories in occupational therapy practice in mental health. As practices and theoretical frameworks may vary greatly across countries, we would be very interested in learning more about your experiences and perspectives.
We would be grateful if you could share your thoughts on the following questions:
Which conceptual models are most commonly used in occupational therapy practice in mental health in your country?
Are psychodynamic models or psychoanalytic theories used in occupational therapy practice in your context?
If yes, how would you describe their role and how they are integrated into practice?
In which country do you practice?
Your insights will help us better understand international perspectives and enrich our collective reflection.
Thank you very much for your time and contribution.
Best regards,Occupational Therapists – Mental Health Reflection Group
Hi there,
I am from Australia. I practised for several years as a mental health OT in Adult Mental Health (public system mainly, community and acute)... the above that you talk about are generally thought of as "frames of reference" that influence OT as a profession (theory) and OT's in mental health should be familiar with those.
However, we generally use "OT Models" in Occupational Therapy in general (including in mental health) to guide clinical practice, e.g., MOHO (Model of Human Occupation) by Kielhofner, or CDM (Cognitive Disabilities Model) by Claudia Allen....
In addition, Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) approach to assessment and intervention, used quite a lot in pediatrics, is also used with adults to address sensory processing and sensory modulation (e.g.: in autism, also mental health).
I think the above 3 are probably the most used, based on my experience. Depends on what type of clients you have as well. Many psychiatric patients (especially in the public system) have cognitive impairments and dual diagnoses (e.g., drug and alcohol abuse, etc.), and many models and frameworks that involve "discussion, exploration" may not be suitable.
I suppose in Australia we are influenced by UK and USA. In Europe, your clinical practice may be guided differently.
I am interested in how do you actually connect psychodynamic models and psychoanalytic theories to "Occupation and Occupational Performance" in clinical practice, and what assessments and interventions do you use ?
The above is just my experience, but another Australian mental health OT may offer a different perspective.
Hope my experience is of some help to you.
Kindest Regards,
Bojana (OT, Australia)