CULTURE AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

In order for cultural practice to be undertaken in the field of Occupational Therapy, we need to understand how cultural competency fits within the occupational therapy profession and why it is so important.

Working from a holistic approach is key to being an occupational therapist this is "Characterised by the treatment of the whole person, taking into account mental and social factors, rather than just the symptoms of a disease" (Oxford Dictionaries, 2016). The whole person, the mental state of the person and the social factors all need to be considered.

Occupational therapists view service users holistically as unique individuals who have paticular life experiences, interests, needs, skills, problems and motivations (Finlay, 2004)

I think it's important for occupational therapists to be aware of culture around us on an everyday basis as it's what makes therapy client-centred. Occupational Therapist take on a person-centred approach to practice. 

The calloborative relationship is hugely implemented throughout the OT profession and through (Finlay, 2004) Without getting to know an individual and without being aware of their culture we are unable to engage with the whole person on a deeper level. I feel being culturally competent is a very important aspect of being an OT. It fits within the practices foundations, values and approach which can be seen specifically in the Five Occupational Therapy Competencies with reference to number 2- Practicing appropriately for bicultural Aotearoa and number 4-Practising in a safe, legal, ethical and culturally competent way (Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand, 2015).

Practising Appropriately for Bicultural Aotearoa encourages therapists to treat people of all cultures appropriately. Aknowledge and respond to the history, cultures, and social structures. While also taking into account The Treaty of Waitangi (Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand, 2015).

Practicing in a safe, legal, ethical and culturally competent way encourages therapists to act with integrity. While including all the above factors in practice (Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand 2015).

Occupational Therapy is a profession in which Clinicians are encouraged to develop their cultural competency continually (Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand, 2015).

References

Finlay, L. (2004). The Practice of Psychosocial Occupational 
            Therapy. Cheltenham,     

            United Kingdom: Nelson Thornes Ltd

Holistic. (2016) In Oxford Dictionaries. Retrieved July 14, 2016, 
            from http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/
            english/holistic
Occupational Therapy Board of New Zealand. (2015) Staying 
            competent and registered as an occupational therapist. 
            Retrieved from http://www.otboard.org.nz/wp-
            content/uploads/2015/04/Competencies_April20151.pdf